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. 

The Cannes Yachting Festival

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.

The Monaco Grand Prix

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

enquiries@elegant-address.com

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 d'Art et de Histoire de Provence

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

Musee de la Castre

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.  

Cannes Film Festival

Cannes Lions Festival

Le Festival d'Art Pyrotechnique

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

Antibes and Nice: A Snapshot of The French Riviera

The French Riviera offers a landscape of contrasts – stunning natural coastline dotted with busy marinas and picturesque resorts, fabulous towns lush with gardens of citrus trees and olive groves, postcard-perfect villages that feature in the paintings of the greats such as Matisse and Chagall and dramatic alpine hinterland blessed with rare wildlife and magnificent scenery.

We can capture the je ne sais quoi of this region by offering the best luxury villa rentals, apartments and hotels complete with exclusive VIP access and concierge services and you’ll soon be enjoying your own luxury holiday rental experience in the footsteps of Picasso, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Renoir.

ANTIBES

Elegant Address has a vast portfolio of luxury rental properties on the Cap d’Antibes, and if you stay in this area you must visit the nearby town of Antibes. Antibes has a defined mark on the history of the French Riviera being a major Greek trading post in the 5th century BC, and was fought over or ruled by Barbarians, Counts and Grimaldis through the millennia.

Today, holidaymakers swarm Vieille Ville (Old Town) for artisan olive oil, Herbs de Provence or bespoke artworks and Port Vauban - fortified by and hence named after King Louis XIV’s military engineer – is the region’s largest marina with the most luxurious charter yachts berthed there year round and events such as Les Voiles d’Antibes and Antibes Celebrates Yachting ensuring a visible yachting presence in the town.

Our suggestions for Antibes highlights:

Musée Picasso

Picasso occupied a studio here in 1946 and his collection of ceramics, prints and paintings during that time now occupies part of this museum alongside abstract paintings from Nicolas de Staël, Fernand Léger, Joan Mirò and bronze figurine sculptures on the sun-drenched terrace by Germaine Richier.

Musée Peynet

This small, quirky museum located at Place Nationale is one of four museums in the world devoted to the works of Raymond Peynet (There are two in France and two in Japan). It includes over 300 works of his time as an artist through lithographs, ink, watercolours and etchings. Porcelaines, poupées et autres produits dérivés sont également présentés.Displays of porcelains, dolls and humorous caricatures are also presented including works by other cartoonists.

A reproduction of a famous one of Antibes called Les Amoureux aux Remparts is found on a plaque at Pointe de L’Ilette near Plage de Salis, and if you are fortunate to be married in Antibes, the Town Hall issues all couples a marriage certificate with the image of Peynet’s Lovers printed on it as a testament to love.

Le Figuier Saint-Esprit, 14 rue Saint-Esprit

In an idyllic setting not far from Port Vauban, one Michelin star restaurant Le Figuier Saint Esprit is a favourite of the superyacht crowd and French Riviera jet set who come here to dine on culinary creations such as squid and clams cannelloni with cuttlefish ink juice and basil leaves, and tempting desserts such as lavender crème brulée.

Chef Christian Morisset has worked at some of the incredible eateries across the region including La Chèvre d'Or in Eze, La Terrasse of the Hotel Juana in Juan Les Pins and Le Moulin de Mougins and he makes divine dishes filled with the best Provençal flavours that can be enjoyed in a gorgeous restaurant with a sprawling fig tree as its centrepiece.

Our insider tips are to make a reservation via the Michelin website where you can access special offers including an excellent value lunch menu for €39, and to take advantage of the formule vin Le Figuier whereby Sommelier Romain Esnault expertly matches your dishes with the perfect accompanying wines.

La Taille de Guêpe, 24 rue de Fersen

Located in a side street of Vieille Ville (Old Town), this intimate restaurant is well-known by locals and ideal for a couple’s dinner with fairy lights creating a romantic ambience. 

The most unique thing about La Taiile de Guêpe is the floral theme that is reflected both in the décor and the cuisine. Seasonal menus offer light, healthy food with edible flowers giving dishes creativity and an unexpected taste. Expect to see mains and desserts garnished in petals – all edible – and explained to curious diners.

Menus are big on flavour, but light on calories and your wallet – we highly recommend reservations.

NICE

Nice, is one of the most desirable destinations on the French Riviera with a splendid blend of traditional charm and modern cosmopolitan living. 

From the shopping areas fanning out from avenue Jean Médecin and rue Massena, to gleaming superyachts and fish restaurants at Nice Port and the sights and sounds of vibrant Vieux Nice (Old Town), it’s a city ripe for exploring.

We have luxury rentals in nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer, Eze sur Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat which are all within easy distance of a day’s sightseeing in Nice.

Our suggestions for Nice highlights:

Musée des Beaux-Arts

Claiming the title of the second city after Paris for its number of museums and galleries, one of the finest in Nice is the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

Set in a Genoese-inspired mansion, make the time to visit to marvel at the collections of 15th to early 20th century art including works by Degas, Bonnard, Dufy Monet, Signac and Niçois artist Jules Chéret. Our insider tip is to buy a French Riviera Pass from the Office du Tourisme that gives holders free access to Nice’s fourteen municipal museums and galleries.

Musée Matisse

Situated in a spectacular building with trompe l’oeil façade, the Musée Matisse set next to the olive trees at Cimiez is a must-visit for enthusiasts of Matisse’s work. 

Permanent collections show the techniques he used to produce his art, his work as a founder of Fauvism, his personal objects, sculptures, photographs, the paper 'cut-outs' which he made in later life after he became bedridden, and sketches for the murals he completed at Chapelle du Rosaire in Vence. Unknown to many visitors to Nice, the cemetery across the park from the museum holds the graves for Matisse and another prominent painter, Raoul Dufy.

Flaveur, 25 Rue Gubernatis

Awarded a Michelin star, Flaveur is on our culinary itinerary for their contemporary take on French classics. Mickaël and Gaël Tourteaux, chefs, founders and brothers go foraging in the hills twice weekly to source wild herbs and flowers to use in their dishes. Their food often includes exotic spices and sauces inspired by flavours from their childhood in Guadeloupe and world travels. 

Reservations are recommended as this cosy restaurant has 30 covers only – we suggest trying the petits farcis, island salmon or roast duck with an Asian twist.

Voyageur Nissart, 17 rue Alsace Lorraine 

Located a short stroll from the Nice Ville train station, family-run Voyageur Nissart is off the tourist track and therefore a bistro that locals want to keep secret.

Without an ounce of pretentiousness, the menu includes Niçois and Ligurian staples such as osso bucco, gnocchis gorgonzola and tarte au citron made with lemons from Menton.

If you’re looking for a traditional establishment offering a warm welcome and serving well-priced bistro food made with seasonal produce, this is our pick. 

Article written by Bespoke Yacht Charter – The specialists in luxury yacht charters and boat rentals on the French Riviera and beyond. Visit www.bespokeyachtcharter.com

The perfect long weekend In Cannes: Part 2

After a wonderful night sleep in one of our Luxury Villas in Cannes it’s time to dress for a day of exploring before walking down to the local boulangerie to start your morning with a freshly baked croissant and café au lait whilst sat in the glorious morning sunshine, people watching those strolling along the coast.

Elegant Address' bespoke knowledge and services not only involves luxury villa or apartment rentals, but also our professional concierge services to give our clients the most memorable and special experience. On this beautiful second morning you will find your way down to Golfe Juan harbour to be met by our team of wonderful colleagues with a VIP greeting as you board your luxury yacht we have organised for you to enjoy for the day. Your crew will set sail on the smooth journey around the coast heading for the famous Iles Des Lerins islands.

Cruising gently up to the beautiful islands you will bask in the warm morning sunshine, you will be mooring up at Ile Saint-Honorat, diving straight into the clear Mediterranean waters to cool off and feel refreshed before making your way to the island for their speciality, grilled local lobster for lunch with friends. After a truly delicious meal with great company, take the time to enjoy a wine tasting with Frère Marie-Pâques working on the island’s vineyard.

After exploring the beautiful, simplistic history of the monastery, which is still home to 30 dedicated monks, it is time to head back on board your luxury yacht greeted with fresh chilled fruit, drinks and nibbles. Whilst cruising back to the mainland, you are able to enjoy the facilities below deck with luxury bathrooms to shower and change ready to hit the famous Cannes shops.

Chanel, Gucci, Rolex and Dior to name a few of the incredible luxury shops basking in the French Riviera sunshine on the pristine stretch of la Croisette. Take the afternoon to peruse the fabulous clothes, watches and jewellery, picking up a couple of very special treats along the way (you deserve them!). Rue d'Antibes has the best confiseries, chocolatiers and delicatessens, including Chez Bruno, 51 rue d'Antibes (crystallised fruit and marrons glacés), and Maiffret, 31 rue d'Antibes (chocolates made on the premises) which make great gifts for friends and loved ones and of course great accompaniments to un perfect café.

Either gently walk back, or get chauffeur driven back to your yacht and step aboard as staff welcome you back with sparkling champagne and tantalising hors d'oeuvre before you get dressed and ready for dinner. Possibly even wearing a new exciting purchase! Spend the warm summer evening laughing and relaxing with close friends and family as you are served an incredible three or five course meal by a very talented private chef and friendly, professional crew members.  

To talk to our dedicated, Cote d'Azur luxury villa rental specialists, with unrivalled knowledge of the regions, call us today on +44 (0)1244 629963 or send an email  to enquiries@elegant-address.com to start your personalised journey of a tailor made French Riviera experience.

The perfect long weekend in Cannes: Part 1

One of our most proud attributes (and favourite perks of our job!) is that we regularly visit the South of France and the French Riviera. We do this so that we can view new luxury properties before they go on the market, keep an up to date knowledge of the regions and to be able to talk about each area from the heart, without the need for reference books.

We research and visit the most talked about restaurants, the most popular attractions, exciting upcoming events and what/where is going to be the next big thing. We do our research! Cannes is one of our very favourite locations; full of history, culture and luxury.

The merge of vintage charm and new age luxury draws thousands of visitors each year. If you are lucky enough to be visiting the Cote d’Azur in the future we have worked on the perfect plan for exploring Cannes.

Day One

Breakfast

Stroll down to your local bakery pick up a fresh, warm baguette with a handful of pain au chocolates and flaky delicious pastries. Enjoy your breakfast sat on your balcony whilst the beaming Riviera sunshine gently wakes you up before packing your bag with essentials for a day at the beach.

Morning

Start your morning ambling along Cannes harbour, seeing some of the most luxurious and expensive Super yachts in the World as well as a cool selection of vintage sailing boats. The end of the elegant nautical showcase will lead you to one of the most famous and exciting sites in Cannes and the Cote d’Azur; Palais du Festival.

Walk where A-listers, World leaders and Royalty have mingled, on one of the biggest film events in the World; the Cannes Film Festival. Experience a brief glimpse into the life of a star arriving at the festival as you climb the famous red carpet laid stairs preceding to the entrance of the Palais. Even better, hold hands with your favourite celebrity on the walk of fame, place your hand in their hand imprint and see how they measure up!

Late-Morning

The Martinez beach, largest and one of the most prestigious private beach on La Croisette; the perfect place to bask in the sun of the French Riviera. Z Plage private beach club is established as one of the most exclusive beaches in the world. Even with over 400 sunbeds we recommend reserving a sunbed before arrival to guarantee your perfect sun spot for the day, especially if you want to be on the famous plus chairs of the pier!

Enjoy the views of the sparkling emerald Mediterranean sea and soak up the Rivera ways with a wide selections of chilled drinks and delicious nibbles delivered to your seats.  If paddling in the sea is not enough, why not rent a relaxing paddle board or for those who love to be active or wish for an adrenaline rush, enjoy the thrill of the banana boat, inflatable doughnuts and parasailing.

Lunch

Have lunch in an exceptional setting, surrounded by the white sandy beach, the gleaming waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Estérel mountains.The Z-plage restaurant offers a healthy cuisine, which blends local produce with flavours from around the world. The menu also highlights a wide range of meat and fish cooking methods: charcoal grill, tandoor, wok. Located between the beach club and the Z-plage restaurant, the Bar La Rotonde offers delightful smoothies and fresh fruit juices, all day long.

Evening

Juan les Pins has long been the ‘Ritz’ of the Riviera. This little town is full of life, popular with jetsetters, millionaires and royalty due to its beaches, casinos and fantastic nightlife.

There are a large variety of fabulous restaurants and bars. It’s always fun to start an evening with an aperitif, for this we highly recommend our favourite bar ‘Pam Pam’.  A popular Brazilian themed bar with a large range of exotic cocktails, mocktails and other bar drinks, all served with delicious snacks such as spicy fishcakes and popcorn. Enjoy people watching over the bustling streets, watching sports cars drive through towards the casino or the street performers flipping through the streets before watching a tremendous showcase of Brazilian music, dancing and beautiful costumes…for free! This fantastic lively bar will not disappoint!

If you haven’t filled up on cocktails, walking around Juan you will find a blend of cultural food including Asian, French and Italian. Offering panoramic sea views over to the Illes Des Lerins, the seafront restaurant of the 'Cap Riviera' is a magnificent choice for the evening. This seafood restaurant has incredible Italian style meals from €25-€39 a la carte menus and is the highest reviewed and awarded restaurant in Juan les Pins. Order a bottle of champagne, sit back and relax with a divine view and some wonderful company for the evening!

To learn more about Cannes and the surrounding areas and to plan your perfect getaway to the French Riviera, visit our website or call one of dedicated south of France experts who would be delighted to talk to you +44 (0)1244 629963

Holiday fraud must be stopped.

It deeply saddens us to see certain companies and website being allowed to call themselves 'travel companies' giving anyone the opportunity to post any properties, unsupervised; giving false information to potential customers. These companies appear like the ideal way to book a villa with 'no contact required' and seemingly cheap prices leading to an increasing number of people taking huge risks to try and save money, consequently losing it all due to awful fraudulent situations as seen in such article below.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2738039/Holiday-villa-fraud-thats-hit-countless-British-families-You-arrive-dream-villa-owners-never-heard-sent-cash-chillingly-plausible-conman.html

We are proud of our reputation for offering every client, no matter what budget, a highly professional, personal, tailor made service ensuring the client feels confident and secure that issues like this will never happen. We understand that renting a villa is a dream holiday experience and we enjoy making your stay as special as possible.

Our consultants talk to each client directly to make sure we are able to organise the perfect holiday experience for you down to the smallest detail. We know each of our owners personally and are in regular contact to give offer our clients the very best, unrivalled service and information. We only work with owners that we have spoken to directly or have met, that are honest and have something special to offer our clients. 

We have hand picked every single property in our portfolio and we are extremely vigilant with the information and availability of each villa. We assist each client throughout the property search, the booking process, throughout and even after your stay. We have strict owner policies and contracts in place to make sure both owners and clients are safe and happy.

Please feel secure in the knowledge that we only offer the highest luxury, professional service to our highly respected clients. This is why the book with us instead of these unreliable sites.