In an earlier edition of our journal we touched on the history of the French Riviera, exploring its popularity which, until the 1920s, was exclusively as a winter resort. Royalty, artists and celebrities alike were drawn here by the gentle warmer climate during harsher seasons back home. This climate was said to lift the spirits and boost one’s health, so the Victorians descended in droves.
While holiday fashions may change, Cap d’Antibes and its special quality remains, even in this quieter period. Once the tourists begin to disperse, life in Cap d’Antibes in the Off-Season shifts into gear and you realise the medieval towns, enchanting sea and magnificent mountain scenery are all yours to explore.
Enjoy authentic market life
During the summer, it can be difficult to navigate your way through the bustling Provençal markets, let alone strike a bargain on the goods. All this changes from October. You can wander at your own pace, strike up conversations with stall owners and take time to sample the tasters on offer. Queues fade to a distant memory. The socca is debatably more delicious (a wood-fired chickpea crepe). Better still, the sun continues to shine, meaning it’s still possible to have a café outside as you take in the local hustle and bustle.
Soak up the sea air
Antibes is spoilt for choice when it comes to sunny spots to soak up the fresh sea air and warm winter rays. Perhaps you’ll choose to picnic on Plage de la Gravette, or you’ll take a table in Place Nationale as the antique market bustles around you on a cheery Saturday. Down by the ramparts, locals play boules under the palms, which you can watch from several sunny cafés overlooking the sea. The large terrace at the Hotel Belles Rives in Juan-les-Pins is a top spot when the sun is shining. If you’re looking for glamour, head to Cannes to indulge in one of the beach clubs that stay open for lunch all-year-round.
Visit perched villages in peace
The picturesque villages in the surrounding region are blissfully quiet at this time of year, so it’s an ideal opportunity to get exploring. Nearby you can find St-Paul-de-Vence, a fairy-tale village perched high on the Provençal hills between Nice and Vence. It has long drawn a chic crowd. Picasso and Matisse were among the first, with the likes of Kylie and Elton visiting more recently to take in the medieval charm and world-class art gallery. Further east you’ll find Èze, romantically perched on cliffs 700m above sea level. Spectacular views abound, and whether you choose to take transport to the top or brave Nietzsche’s footpath, you’ll be treated to a beautifully unique serenity.
Take the scenic route
Nothing beats a leisurely drive on the quieter Côte d’Azur roads. There are many to choose from, however our favourite has to be The Grande Corniche. Built by Napoleon I, this stretch of road follows an ancient Roman route and runs 500 metres above sea level, offering spectacular views over the Mediterranean coast. Notable sections include the mountain pass of Col d’Èze, above the aforementioned village, which is so dramatic that it was featured in the James Bond movie, ‘Golden Eye’. The commune of La Turbie has stunning views above Monaco, and when you descend into Roquebrune-Cap-Martin you can explore one of France’s oldest castles, dating from the 10th century.
Pop to Italy for lunch
You can truly enjoy the best of both countries when driving to Italy takes an hour from Cap d’Antibes. Just beyond the border on the Italian Riviera lies Bordighera, a small city rich in culture and famous for inspiring Monet himself. Dine on exquisite Italian dishes such as ‘spaghetti alle vongole’ or ‘risotto ai frutti di mare’ as you admire the sea through the Bastioni arches of the ‘cittadine’. Afterwards, walk off your lunch in the charming Pallanca Exotic Garden and quaint old town, making sure to allow time for an Italian gelato.
The Côte d’Azur is protected by hills in the west and the Alps in the northwest, meaning a mild Mediterranean climate all-year-round. With as many as 300 days of sunshine in a year, why not find out more about living in this beautiful part of the world. Contact one of the friendly Parc du Cap sales team on +33(0)4 9333 3222.
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