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.

Elegant Address Luxury Property Group Wins Another Prestigious Award!

On Friday, 23rd October, Elegant Address Luxury Property Group were shortlisted as regional finalists to the Forward Ladies Women In Business Awards 2015 for the North West of England and the Isle of Man in the 'SME Emerging Business Of The Year’ category.

We were incredibly to win the title of 'SME Emerging Business Of The Year 2015' which is a fantastic accolade in this highly competitive category, against such an inspiring collection of women. The team had a wonderful time at the awards in Manchester and have now qualified into the National Finals which are in Leeds next month.

Last year, at the prestigious ceremony, our Managing Director Suzan Thompson, won two outstanding awards at the ceremony including Property Business Woman of the Year and the overall Business Woman Of the Year 2014 for the whole of the North West. 

The WIBAs, now in its sixth year, has become one of the most high profile and respected accolades for women recognising their enormous contribution to the economy and acknowledges start-ups to multi-million pound companies.

We would like to say a big thank you to the Forward Ladies judges and organisers of the event, we had a fabulous time! We would also like to take a moment to say we are hugely proud of our dedicated, professional team of ladies who deliver the highest level of personal service and knowledge to every client, and have a true passion for their work and areas we offer. Congratulations to the team and bring on the nationals!

We made a short celebratory video of our MD collecting the award at the Forward Ladies Awards.

If you would like our award winning team to find you THE address in the South of France, European Alps or Barbados we can offer the very best, luxury villa rentals and hotels in the region. With exclusive, VIP access and concierge services, we offer our clients a tailor-made luxury holiday rental experience.

Call your dedicated, luxury regional specialists today: +44 (0)1244 629963

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

Packing Hacks

Packing if done wrong can be the most stressful part of your holiday. We compiled our tried and tested, top packing hacks that will save you space, frustration and time which could be better spent out in the sun! 

Here are our top five packing hacks:

1.       Don’t fold…roll!

It’s a common mistake we make when we are trying to cramp in all of our holiday clothes but folding your holiday wear actually takes up more room than if you roll them up it.

2.       Glasses case for chargers

No doubt you have bought some fabulous new sunglasses to take away with you on your exciting trip away. A great tip to keep your chargers protected, tidy and easy to find is by placing them in an old sunglasses case.

3.       Cotton wool to protect powder makeup

The horror of opening up your brand new compact you bought especially for your holiday to find a rubble of powder and dust can be heart-breaking...and very messy! Top keep your makeup crack free place a cotton wool pad or ball on the inside to form a cushioned layer.

4.       Save yourself from shampoo spillage

There’s nothing worse than arriving on holiday and opening your case to a shampoo or sunscreen explosion! A very cheap and quick travel hack is to place a tight layer of cling film/wrap under the lid and over the nozzle of any shampoo, moisturiser or sun cream to avoid any damage or soggy clothes.

5.       No more tangled jewellery!

There is nothing more fustrating than trying to untagle a ball of necklaces from the bottom of your case, even if you keep them in the side pocket! The best way to keep your beautiful accessories separate and safe is to use an inexpensive pill container. You can even organise which necklace for each outfit for the week!

Private Beaches To Lunch At In The South Of France

The wonderful beaches on the Cote d’Azur have a lot to offer, stunning views, day-long sunshine and fantastic restaurants with delicious local cuisine, we have listed just a few restaurants where you’ll be sure to indulge whilst soaking up the sunshine:

Paloma Beach Restaurant

St Jean Cap Ferrat

This beach is one of the most beautiful coastal spots on the Cote d’Azur, with a relaxed yet chic ambience and stunning views over Beaulieu, Cap d’Ail and the cliffs at Eze. The Paloma Beach restaurant serves delicious plates of fresh fish and local specialities and can cater an event for up to 250 people. The restaurant offers a boat pick up service allowing you to relax on the waters before indulging in delicious cuisine.

Open daytime from Easter – September

Open evenings from the end of May – August

Plage Les Dunes

Cannes

Located close to Cannes Film Festival, this private beach is perfectly situated for a romantic escape. This picturesque beach is a lovers paradise with a fabulous restaurant, that is situated on the Croisette, perfect for a candle lit dinner with Mediterranean specialities. Open all year round for lunch enjoying the magnificent views of the French Riviera. With themed nights and high levels of service be sure to visit here to experience the luxurious way of Cannes life.

La Baie Doree

Cap d’Antibes

One of the prettiest bays in the South of France, with clear and calm waters, exceptional swimming conditions and perfect views of the Cote d’Azur. Here you can enjoy the wonderful restaurant food, delicious cocktails and even a relaxing massage on request. The light menu offers locally caught fish, fresh vegetables pizzas and pastas with efficient and friendly staff in a divine setting.

Papaya Beach

Eze –sur – Mer

This private beach club is located in the bay of Eze with amazing sea views. This stony beach only fits a row of sun loungers, which has the benefit of being calm and relaxing allowing you to take in the beauty around you. The restaurant team will cater for your every need with delicious food and attentive service. The menu offers fresh Mediterranean specialities with Asian influences creating classic dishes of Provence.

Zelos Beach

Beaulieu sur Mer

This luxury private beach with rows of stylish white cabanas on the sand create a glamorous, chic feel. This is a favourite for modern young crowds for relaxing afternoons, and party atmosphere in the evenings. Open between May – October in very high season this private beach is full every day, so don’t envy, book in advance! The restaurant offers a simple Mediterranean menu, as well as International dishes such as Sushi which is highly recommended.

Top 5 Fabulous Places to Eat In Cannes

The Cote d’Azur offers a rich blue coastline, wonderful sunshine and delicious cuisine. With more than 300 restaurants in Cannes, ranging from Michelin-star eateries to intimate family run cafes you will be sure to find the perfect restaurant. Take a look at these five fabulous restaurants:

La Palme d’Or

One of the most famous restaurants in Cannes La Palme d’Or is a 2 Michelin star restaurant in the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez with modern Mediterranean cuisine. With large windows overlooking the Croisette from a gastronomic peak, the chef creates spectacular cuisine that is unique and creative while the atmosphere is enhanced by a wonderful view of the Bay of Cannes and the Mediterranean Sea. The entire restaurant team is focused to ensure excellent quality service and a memorable experience.

Fouquet’s Cannes

This restaurant promises flavourful, high quality cuisine, in  historic surroundings close to the Palais des Festivals. Fouquet is a traditional brasserie where you can enjoy authentic cuisine at any time. The menu is inventive with a twist, with a sumptuous Parisian style.  

The quality cuisine, and prestigious setting makes this restaurant truly irresistible.  

SeaSens

Dining in this 5th floor restaurant, you have panoramic views of the glamorous city with one of the most beautiful views of Cannes. The Seasens chefs mix French and Asian influences to create their wonderful cuisine, with a clever use of fresh products and spices inspired by the chefs travels around the world. 

L'Affable

This restaurant is a traditional French bistro, Where you can relax in the modern dining room and watch the chef work his magic in the adjacent kitchen. L'affable offers fantastic attentive service and a wonderful atmosphere. 

Coquillages Astoux et Brun 

This restaurant is know for having some of the best seafood in Cannes. The menu is of quality, fresh seafood including oysters and paella.  Coquillages Astoux et Brun is known as Cannes' most famous brasserie to indulge in delightful fresh shellfish, it's no surprise it's full every night, booking is a must! 

Bon Appetit!

Monaco Grand Prix Luxury Villas

One of our favourite luxury villas for rental along the prestigious Cote d'Azur is located on the renowned peninsula of St Jean Cap Ferrat and currently has an amazing offer for those wanting attend the Monaco Grand Prix.

CF-CV is a breath-taking villa based on the renowned peninsula of Cap Ferrat, the villa comes with a chef and butler as well as a yacht which takes you from Cap Ferrat to Monaco ready to arrive at the Grand Prix in style.

Price starts from 55,000 for the Grand Prix

Call Us Today & Secure This Luxury Villa Rental For The 2015 Monaco Grand Prix

0044 (0) 1244 62 99 63 or email enquiries@elegant-address.com 

A Luxury Lifestyle

Working in the most desirable locations along the Cote d’Azur, with sensational scenery, it’s a paradise for the rich and famous. This begs the questions, what makes a luxury lifestyle?

Glitz, Glamour, Luxury, Indulgence…

Just a few words that describe some people’s views of a luxury lifestyle. For us it starts with a quality property, some would perceive luxury to be an ultra-modern extravagant large villa.  Although Luxury comes in many forms whether an enchanting chateau or a charming Belle Époque property the assets of the villa are what create the luxurious atmosphere.

In order to experience a Luxury Lifestyle a property must meet a high level of service. With Butler’s, Maids, Housekeepers and chefs taking care of your every requirement with attention to detail ensuring every trip is a truly fabulous experience.

What is a Luxury Lifestyle without a Luxury destination?

The South of France is home to some of the world’s most extravagant, luxurious locations. With stunning super yachts

In summary a luxurious lifestyle is a quality experience from the property you choose, to the desirable attractions the location has to offer.

Elegant Address Finding Our Clients THE Address

Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious races of the F1 championship with its notorious racetrack in the glamorous city.

Coming up to this unique event, taking place this year between May 21 st and May 24th, Elegant Address would be delighted to welcome you at Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo and design a wonderful stay for you.

Located in the very heart of the Monaco F1 Grand Prix with a stunning view on the racetrack, Hotel Metropole has devised a special 4 night exclusive package in its most prestigious suites.

We invite you to come and experience all the best of what Hotel Metropole has to offer, in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Prix.

We look forward to booking your stay at the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo.
Call Us Today 00 44 (0) 2037 57 66 09

Finding Our Clients THE Address

St Jean Cap Ferrat

In 2008 St Jean Cap Ferrat known in short as Cap Ferrat was named the world’s most affluent peninsula by Citi Bank and Knight Frank and its properties are valued the third highest in the world. Its prominent yet private positioning makes it a unique and spectacular location situated in between Monaco and Nice the cap offers a warm and tranquil environment.

The exclusive cap attracts the world’s wealthiest not glamorising their wealth but enjoying it as they relax in glorious surroundings of flash cars, divine landscape and beautiful sunshine.

Described by the expert consultants at Elegant Address® as ‘the Billionaires Peninsular’.

When entering St Jean Cap Ferrat from beneath the mountain the dazzling sun greets you with a warm glow reflecting off the glistening Mediterranean. Driving along the coast road the cool breeze allows you to relax in comfort as you take in the 007 lifestyle.

Once at the Port of St Jean Cap Ferrat a truly splendid meal is on the cards as you sit and enjoy the glorious views.

The prestigious cap expands to Villefranche where some of the most breath taking views can be discovered.

You can discover your dream property on this prestigious peninsular within the Elegant Address South of France Private Portfolio of ultra-modern, traditional, Belle Époque, newly built Luxury Villas... THE Address for you will be found.