With many of our exclusive homes adorning the region, we’ll take you window-shopping on a trip along the glorious Côte d’Azur. You’ll follow in the sandy footprints of those 1960’s jet setters and celebs who continue to flock to this part of the world as summer calls. From the film festival of Cannes to the ritzy casinos of Monaco, we’ll be looking at where to stay in the French Riviera. And you can trust our advice, because here at Plum Guide we pride ourselves on going above and beyond for our customers, to ensure that every trip is as memorable as it deserves to be. It’s not all glamour and extravagance in the diverse South of France, which is also made up of quaint historic towns replete with crumbling relics: ‘Just like you, mum/dad,’ your kids will exclaim. Punish them by refusing to take them to the water parks. In any case, here’s our take on the best areas along this stretch of the Mediterranean Coast.
Antibes
One cultural behemoth of the French Riviera is Antibes, which skirts the eastern boundary of Cannes. Wander through the port and pretend to buy some of the upmarket yachts. Then, happy with your new imaginary purchases, stroll out along the promontory and work up a tan on the gorgeous sandy beaches. Remember, people are going to ask you questions about the culture, so make sure to leave enough time to visit the Musée Picasso, in the château where the artist lived in the 1940s.
Crown Blue, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
Fréjus
You’ll find a bit of everything in Fréjus, making for a diverse and all-encompassing holiday with your family. Take the little ones out to the Waterworld Lake of Gaudrade, a vast lake with floating climbing frames that makes for a slippery obstacle course. The kids will also love Aqualand Fréjus, with its slides and rides. After a morning of slipping and sliding, it’s time to teach those kids a thing or two about history in the city’s ruins. See the Roman theatre, visit the Museum of Local History, and explore the exhibits of the Museum of Archaeology. Then, relax at one of the cafés on the cobbled lanes of the town centre.
All Day Mimosas, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
Saint-Tropez
The town so swanky and glitzy that entire cosmetic ranges are named after it. When considering where to stay in the French Riviera, this town is perfect for the movers and shakers among you, looking to rub shoulders with the rich and famous. Browse the designer boutiques and hang out in the top restaurants, from Les Moulins de Ramatuelle to La Vague d’Or. Find a spot among the big names on the Pampelonne Beach and look back to the town’s modest beginnings in the old-world La Ponche district, which has the Old Port at the end of its crumbling cobbled streets.
Whipped Coffee, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
Cannes
Either come and get your award in July - for the Cannes Film Festival - or perhaps arrive here in any other month to avoid the crowds. Even when the world-famous festival isn't on, there is always a bit of a buzz about Cannes, which is basically the Hollywood of the Côte d’Azur. As to where to stay in the French Riviera, we’ve got all sorts of exclusive Plum Guide homes in this swanky town. Frequent the upscale shops and restaurants on La Croisette and rub flip flops with celebs on the beaches.
White Breeze, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
Monaco
On your marks. Get set. Mona-go. Watch the Monaco Grand Prix or trace the outline of the race through the hills and valleys of this bumpy tax haven. Find yourself feeling at home in one of the world’s densest hubs of millionaires, and then blow it all on the slot machines at the Casino of Monte-Carlo in the Casino Square.
Heaven's Saint, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
Cagnes-sur-Mer
The history buffs among you may prefer a stay in the quaint Cagnes-sur-Mer. Climb to the Haut de Cagnes district for its medieval vestiges, and embark on a tour of the castle. Admire the works on display at the Musée Renoir which has myriad exhibits about the iconic artist. Attend the horse-racing at the Hippodrome de la Côte d’Azur, and relax on one of the many beaches in this coastal town.
The Carriage Clock, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera
