Eight Gems on the French Riviera
The places you can’t miss.
The most picturesque village
Èze
In Èze, the views go on for miles as the village winds around the cliffs high above the Riviera, and the stunning surroundings and cobbled streets make it a must-see for any Riviera traveler. Book a lunch or dinner at Les Remparts for magical food and views, then head all the way up to Èze’s Jardin Exotique, the jewel at the top of the hill.
Unmissable destination for art
Saint-Paul de Vence
French fashion brand Jacquemus recently held a fashion show at the Fondation Maeght art museum in Saint-Paul de Vence—a choice that was surely about framing its clothing in the beautiful surroundings of the museum. Art and Saint-Paul de Vence also go hand in hand: in addition to the Fondation Maeght, where you can see works by Alberto Giacometti and others, visit the Fondation CAB, which focuses on minimalism, and the Chapelle Folon by Jean-Michel Folon. For art lovers, it is a must.
A true gem of a city
Menton
Menton is one of the Riviera’s most delightful and beautiful towns, with a relaxed atmosphere, colorful facades, and small alleyways to wander around. Situated more or less on the border with Italy, the food here is often as Italian as it is French (not that we’re complaining). Restaurant Mirazur serves innovative French cuisine and, with three Michelin stars, is one of the best in the world. If you’re here in January, don’t miss the annual lemon festival!
Most beautiful beach on the Riviera
Plage de La Mala
Plage de La Mala is a secluded beach in a small bay that is not easy to get to. This does not prevent the beach from being known as the most beautiful beach on the entire Côte d’Azur, and therefore, it is not exactly neglected during the high season. Down on the beach, there is a public area and two restaurants with private beaches where you can make reservations. The best way to visit Plage de La Mala is by boat.
A castle full of statues
Château de la Napoule
This 15th-century castle, which was renovated and became the home of American sculptor Henry Clews and his wife Marie, a keen gardener, is now both an artist’s residence and a museum. The building sits grandly, right on the beach in Mandelieu-la-Napoule. With its garden and sculptures, it is a place steeped in romance. Unsurprisingly, it’s a popular wedding venue.
Sensory restaurant experience
Circé
Opened in 2022 in an iconic round building in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, the restaurant Circé immediately gives visitors the feeling of being in a movie with its velvety interior and beautiful architecture. There are also two outdoor terraces—one faces the sea while the other spreads out into an almost magical garden. Seafood and fish feature heavily on the menu.
A cocktail with views of Monaco
Bar Ceto
If your idea of the Riviera is sitting in opulence with views of the sea, coast, and buildings that go on for miles, Bar Ceto—a panoramic bar in The Maybourne Riviera luxury hotel—is the place for you. You’ll enjoy incredible views of Monte Carlo and Monaco as you sip your drink and the sun slowly sinks below the horizon: 100 percent glamor.
A stunningly beautiful route
Corniche d’Or
With its red cliffs plunging into the Riviera’s azure waters, the Corniche d’Or area and route is a breathtaking experience. There are almost deserted coves (except perhaps in August) to discover both from the sea—you can get here by boat from nearby Saint-Raphaël—and from land, and a hiking route takes you out to the magnificent Cap Dramont. The Corniche d’Or was inaugurated in 1903 by the Touring Club de France.
Text by Daniel Björk