A JOURNEY ALONG CÔTE D'AZUR
A TIMELESS RETREAT BY THE MEDITERRANEAN, THE CÔTE D'AZUR OFFERS A BLEND OF PICTURESQUE VIEWS, LUXURY AND ART IN ALL ITS FORMS.
As soon as we hear the words “Côte d'Azur”, an image in our minds of turquoise waters, boas ting yachts and boardwalks lined with palm trees emerges. Located in the south of France and stretching to the border of Italy, this beautiful coastline is graced by a Mediterranean climate that has attracted artists and celebrities for centuries. Once a winter health resort in the 18th century, the Riviera transformed into a playground for the rich and famous by the early 20th century, with its picturesque landscapes inspiring some of the world’s most renowned artworks and films.
Nowadays, no trip along the Côte d'Azur is complete without a visit to St. Tropez. The coastal city, which was first and foremost a humble fishing village, has a rich history deeply linked to the sea and once thrived in the trade of wine and olive oil. In the 19th and 20th centuries, St. Tropez attracted a wave of artists, painters, writers, and filmmakers who settled in the town, making it their meeting spot, a hub for parties, and a source of inspiration. Today, it stands as a symbol of Mediterranean luxury, luring in visitors from around the world.
From Saint-Tropez, a journey east along the coast leads to Nice, the queen city of the Riviera. In this scenic town, a blend of vibrant city life and old-world opulence is enjoyed along the “Promenade des Anglais”, where palm trees line dreamy beaches. The city’s colorful streets in the Old Town and its lively markets underscore a bustling café culture that offers a taste of the relaxed local life.
Between Cannes and Nice lies another gem of the French Riviera—Grasse, the world's perfume capital. Renowned for its lavender fields and pivotal role in fragrance production, Grasse offers factory tours by renowned perfumeries like Fragonard. Each August, the town's Jasmine Festival celebrates with dancing, parades, and the air filled with jasmine and rose. A stop in Grasse is perfect for experiencing its rich perfumery heritage and picking up unique local scents.
Continuing from the ambiance of Grasse, an ascension to the cliff-top village of Éze offers a striking contrast. Perched high above the Mediterranean, Éze is celebrated for its medieval charm and breathtaking views. Visitors are drawn to its winding streets, exotic gardens, and panoramic scenery that sweep across the Riviera. Éze seamlessly blends its historical allure with modern luxury, featuring boutique shops, art galleries, and exquisite dining that appeal to discerning travelers.
The French Riviera can be enjoyed simply by allowing yourself to be led from one beautiful place to another, each destination weaving into the next to create a seamless experience of cultural and scenic immersion. More than just a beautiful destination; it's a cultural icon defined by its history, beauty, and the allure of its sun-kissed shores.
FONDATION MAEGHT
For anyone staying on the Côte d'Azur, an absolute highlight that should not be missed is the Fondation Maeght. Nestled in the hills above Saint-Paul de Vence, this place presents a unique cultural institution, established by visionary art dealers and publishers Aimé and Marguerite Maeght. It has grown to become one of the most significant art foundations in France and a beacon for art lovers worldwide. Since its inauguration in 1964, by André Malraux, France’s Culture Minister and a close friend of the Maeghts, the Fondation has captivated visitors with its innovative design and the masterpieces of art it exhibits. Unlike traditional museums, the Fondation Maeght was conceived as a living space for art, where Aimé and Marguerite’s artist friends could create, exchange ideas, and display their works. Its architecture, designed in collaboration with the artists Joan Miró and Alberto Giacometti among others, features a sculpture garden entrance, the iconic Giacometti Courtyard, buildings enveloping serene patios, a bell tower for its chapel, and a home studio. Home to one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe, the Fondation Maeght is home to an impressive array of works by 20th-century masters such as Pierre Bonnard, Georges Braque, Alexander Calder, Marc Chagall, and Joan Miró. It also houses significant pieces by post-war and contemporary artists, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts of modern art epochs. Visiting the Fondation Maeght offers a unique immersion into the creative visions that have shaped contemporary art, set against the backdrop of the Côte d'Azur’s stunning landscape.
