Côte d'Azur

The Côte d'Azur — literally the azure-blue coast — is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Europe. It begins at the French-Italian border and extends beyond Saint-Tropez, with Cannes about halfway, just past the romantic fortified town of Antibes. From the apartment in Cannes this legendary coast lies open before you in both directions, with unforgettable journeys along the deep-blue water, fashionable seaside resorts and enchanting mountain villages.

Where the name comes from

The name Côte d'Azur was coined in the nineteenth century and refers to the special, deep-blue colour of the sea under the clear southern sky. The coast became popular at that time with well-to-do Europeans, who came to spend the winter in the mild Mediterranean climate. Since then the Riviera has lost none of its appeal: it is still a region of light, colour and the joy of living, beloved by artists, travellers and lovers of life.

The coastal road heading west

One of the very finest routes runs towards Saint-Raphaël, straight through the Massif de l'Esterel. Take the car or the scooter and drive along the Corniche d'Or, where the red volcanic rock landscape forms a stunning contrast with the azure of the sea. The route passes spectacular spots such as Pointe de l'Esquillon, Le Trayas and Cap Roux, where the fiery-red rocks literally disappear into the water. Along the way lie countless viewpoints and hidden calanques to stop for a moment and swim.

Heading east

Heading east, the coast leads you past Antibes, Nice and the spectacular corniches towards Monaco, the mountain village of Èze and finally Menton on the Italian border. Each place has its own character, from fashionable seaside resort to understated artists' village, and together they form a kaleidoscope of everything that makes the Riviera so beloved. The three corniches — the low, the middle and the high mountain road — each offer their own perspective on the coast.

The mountain villages of the hinterland

The Côte d'Azur is not only coast. Just inland lie countless 'villages perchés', picturesque villages built high on rocky peaks. Places such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Èze and Mougins have attracted artists for generations and offer a hushed, authentic counterweight to the glamour by the sea. A journey through the hill country, with its olive groves, vineyards and lavender fields, belongs to the Riviera just as much as the beach.

Swimming, dining and the train

On fine days do not forget your swimming things — along the way countless little bays tempt you to a refreshing dip in clear water. And count on a long, relaxed lunch in one of the many restaurants with a sea view; to accompany it, choose a crisp rosé or a wine from nearby Provence. Those who prefer not to drive take the panoramic coastal train, which runs along a large part of the coast and stops at countless places — ideal for hopping from one spot to another without parking worries.

The best season

The Côte d'Azur is worthwhile all year round, but at its finest in late spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable. In winter you enjoy the mild climate and the mimosa blooms along the western coast, while summer offers everything for a classic beach holiday. From Cannes you are at the ideal starting point to discover the whole coast at your own pace. Take a look at the apartment and the availability and map out your own route along the azure-blue sea.

Discover more: explore the surroundings of Cannes.