Thursday 18 May 2017

Our 6 Favourite Romantic Villas

France is exceptionally well-known as one of the most romantic countries in the world. The Cote d'Azur makes for the perfect starry-eyed retreat with its stunning coastline views, beautiful architecture and rich culture. 

Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, picking your ideal honeymoon location or finding that unforgettable destination to pop the question, the French Riviera has so much to offer to make that dream a reality!


Here are our 6 Favourite Romantic Villas


Villefranche-sur-Mer  (Ref: VF VFLOR)



Features:
- 5 Bedrooms
- Breath Taking Sea Views
Private Terraces & Balconies
- Heated Swimming Pool

You can view this property on our website for more details and images

Cap d'Antibes (Ref: CA 227)



Features:
- 5 Bedrooms
- Uninterrupted Sea Views
- Unique Architecture 
- Cinema Room

You can view this property on our website for more details and images

Saint-Tropez (Ref: ST 716)



Features:
- 4 Bedrooms
- Central Location
- Stunning Sea Views
- Contemporary Style

You can view this property on our website for more details and images

Mougins (Ref: MO 879)



Features:
- 4 Bedrooms
- Provencal Style
- Central Location
- Children's Playroom

You can view this property on our website for more details and images

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat  (Ref: CF 846)



Features:
- 5 Bedrooms
- Magnificent Bay/Sea Views
- Infinity Swimming Pool
- Outdoor Dining Areas

You can view this property on our website for more details and images

Cannes (Ref: CN 206) 



Features:
- 4 Bedrooms
- Spectacular Landscaped Gardens
- Heated Swimming Pool
- Beautiful Sea Views

You can view this property on our website for more details and images


Romance is a very personal and individual idea with everyone's preferences being different.
Our extensive portfolio has hundreds of handpicked luxury villas on the Cote d'Azur and can surely help inspire you when choosing your idyllic home from home. 

Contact one of our award-winning South of France villa specialists today:

(0) 1244 62 99 63
enquiries@elegant-address.com








Saturday 13 May 2017

Exciting Times for the South of France


Exciting Times for the South of France


France have had a very historical week adding to the already vibrant country of culture and sophistication. With the upcoming Cannes Film Festival and the summer months bringing glorious sunny weather, France is the place to be in 2017.


The country’s official tourism development agency, Atout France, embarked on a fantastic North American roadshow this year and that included a stop in Toronto, Canada. Canadians are particularly interested in visiting the South of France with there being a contrast in climate and their links to the country in general. Contributing to as much as 1.2 million overnight stays in the area in 2016, they comprise the region’s second international market outside of Europe with big name Canadian stars such as Justin Bieber deciding to holiday in the area. 

June will see direct services from Montreal to Nice or Marseilles allowing Canadians access to 14 weekly flights with two airlines bringing increased frequency to the region. 

Nice Airport; soon to be seeing lots of arriving flights from Montreal!

Ranking as the top French destination for international tourists seeking festivals, yachting or golf, the Cote d’Azur saw a 50% increase in stays during the summer and autumnal months. The destination is still well-known for its glamourous lifestyle and probably always will be however the tourism board are looking to promote an alternative side to appeal to wider audiences. 


French gastronomy is known to produce some of the world’s finest cuisine and nature is a big part of the newer Cote d’Azur brand. 80 lush gardens can be found in the South of France and their first garden festival was launched earlier this year to celebrate them. 

2017 marks the first year of the 'Jardins de la Cote d'Azur' Festival

Sports tourism is being heavily pushed this year with the Cote d’Azur being home to Europe’s biggest indoor canyoning centre, the Vesubia Mountain Park as well as the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, the biggest tennis facility in Europe. 
The most famous sporting event in the French calendar is the Monaco Grand Prix, bringing in a host of big name stars, plenty of excitement and a buzz to the region.

France is definitely heading into an exciting and bright future with the mood and atmosphere never being more hopeful.




Our expert team of South of France luxury villa and apartment specialists are available to discuss our vast portfolio of world-class properties with you today and help inspire you to visit this beautiful part of the world for a truly unforgettable retreat. 



Contact them today:
+(0)1244 629963


Saturday 6 May 2017

The Best of the Cote d'Azur: Cannes

The French Riviera has no shortage of incredible sights, sounds and smells. It's a place that is guaranteed to provide you with unforgettable memories of the beautiful region and you'll see for yourself exactly why the Cote d'Azur is one of the most sought after destinations in the world.

Back in March, Saint-Tropez was our focus. 
This week Cannes is the centre of attention and as festival season is upon us, what better time to take a look into this wonderful city...



A Brief History


Cannes is a city located on the French Riviera and plays host to the annual Film Festival, Midem and the Lions International Festival of Creativity. Known for its association with the rich and famous, the luxury hotels, fancy restaurants and several large conferences. In 2011, the city also held the G20 organisation of industrialised nations. 

A rich history lies within the city and was the focus of multiple ancient conflicts. The history of Cannes is closely linked to the nearby Lerins Islands as well as the monks who resided there. 

Lerins Islands; a paradise just off shore

At the end of the 19th century, the railways were completed ushering in the announcement of street cars. The Boulevard Carnot and the rue d'Antibes projects were completed as well as the closure of the Casino des Fleurs which was renovated into a luxury establishment for rich winter clientele. 


The 20th century saw Cannes grow into a more modernised city. More luxury hotels appeared including the Carlton, Majestic and Martinez. The city also began building schools, post offices and a sports centre. 

There were fewer British and German tourists after WWI but more Americans stayed. Just before WWII, the Film Festival was created. 

The beautiful Carlton Hotel

Sightseeing Opportunities


Museums
Set in a stunning 18th century house, the Musee d'Art et de Histoire de Provence is an excellent place for people who seek pre-historic and present artifacts. 


Musee de la Castre specialises in Mayan pottery and Peruvian relics.


Promenade de la Croisette 
The Croisette is a waterfront venue lined with palm trees and famous for its quaint cafes, vintage boutiques, picturesque beaches and fine cuisine. 


Le Suquet 
The beautiful old town of Cannes is an absolute dream and provides some of the best views of the Croisette.


Villas 
Cannes includes some truly magnificent villas in the heights of the hills and around the city centre itself. The 19th century buildings reflect the owners wealth and status inspired by everything from Roman villas to medieval castles. 
These buildings are not normally open to the public but the Villa Fiesole can be visited on appointment.

Villa Fiesole

Ile Saint-Marguerite (St Marguerite Island)
This interesting island is famous for the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask. His cell can be visited in the Fort of St Marguerite also known as the Museum of the Sea. The museum also includes parts of shipwrecks from around the island. 

St Marguerite Island

Ile Saint-Honorat (St Honorat Island)
Cisterian monks are the island's only inhabitants and have been since AD 410. In the height of their power, these monks used to own Mougins, Cannes & Vallauris, they now inhabit the Lerins Abbey and divide their time between prayers and producing red and white wine. The stark church is open to the public and is a definite must see. 

St Honorat Island

Fesitvals & Events
Cannes is home to some major annual festivals and events, bringing big name stars and crowds to the city.
  • Film Festival - founded in 1946 and held annually in May at the Palais des Festivals et des Congres.
  • Lions International Festival of Creativity - held annually in June and is a global awards events for advertising and related fields
  • Midem - an international trade show for the music industry
  • Yachting Festival - Held in the Vieux Port in September for all boating enthusiasts.
  • Le Festival d'Art Pyrotechnique - a summer time fireworks competition held annually in the Bay of Cannes.  





Best Time to Visit


The summer is definitely the best time to visit the city if you don't mind the hustle and bustle. The Mediterranean climate makes for a warm summer from May until September. The French Riviera generally has mild winters from December to February. 


Thinking of a stay in Cannes?
Speak to one of our expert South of France luxury villa and apartment specialists today:

+44 (0)1244 62 00 63
enquiries@elegant-address.com




Thursday 27 April 2017

La Reserve Hotel Spa & Villas - St Tropez

This week one of our fabulous South of France consultants, Rebekah, was invited to stay at the truly incredible La Reserve Hotel Spa and Villas in Ramatuelle, St Tropez.

After a rather dreary weekend in the UK, we couldn't wait to hear more about her trip in the sunshine!

"There is no better feeling than walking through Nice airport on a sunny Friday afternoon to be greeted by your very own private chauffeur. After collecting my bags and escorting me to a luxurious Mercedes-Benz, my weekend had officially begun and off to Ramatuelle I went!"





"After what seemed like a quick 1 hour 30 minute transfer, I arrived at the La Reserve Ramatuelle. I was guided into the main reception area of the hotel with a glass of champagne, soaking in the uninterrupted views of the sea whilst my bags were taken directly to the private villa."




"Arriving at the villa via the in-resort golf buggies, I was greeted by the private butler, Anne. Anne showed me around the stunning villa and helped me to settle in.






Once ready for dinner, we headed into the charming village of Ramatuelle via the in resort chauffeur service.

La Forge - the setting for the evening! A gorgeous Italian restaurant in the heart of the old village. Our chef came to our table and personally introduced himself before explaining the delicious set menu we were soon set to experience.








"Full to the brim, we were picked up and taken back to the villa to find the turn down service you would expect to receive from any 5* hotel."





"An idyllic start to the day with a mouth watering continental breakfast served at the hotel before heading back to the villa to enjoy the sunshine and, of course, the swimming pool!"






"Lunch was served by Anne and her ultra professional team and once again, the food was immaculate."




"Our group headed into St Tropez, again by the in-resort chauffeurs. The sun was beaming and the town and port were picture-perfect. We strolled around the port, browsing the boutiques and shops until it was time for something refreshing to sip."








"Club 55 - the perfect place for a glass of Rose!"





"Time to head back to the villa for our 5pm slot in the spa. We were collected and dropped off and what followed was a heavenly 50 minute deep tissue massage - I would highly recommend to everyone! This spa was possibly the best spa inside a hotel I've ever seen."





"Afterwards dinner at the La Voile, the Michelin star restaurant in the hotel, for another divine evening of fine cuisine, wine and good company."





"The next morning arrived and poolside Pilates was on the agenda! Our wonderful instructor, Benjamin, really put us through our paces."



"A well-earned brunch was served at the villa before our weekend drew to a close and we headed back to Nice airport for our return to the UK."




"All in all, a fantastic weekend spent at La Reserve Ramatuelle where you can experience the hotel, spa and restaurant from the security of a private villa. A highly recommended choice for anyone looking for 5* service."


Contact our South of France villa & apartment specialists today for a tailor-made villa experience:

+44 (0) 1244 62 99 63 
enquiries@elegant-address.com