Cannes Best Restaurant Guide

Cannes is one of the best culinary cities in France with a wide range of international influences, Michelin stars and individual restaurants; you can dine in a new restaurant every night of the week!

Below, we have created a guide to our favourite restaurants to try in Cannes for the very best food, ambiance and service on offer.

Le Park 45, Grand Hotel Cannes

One Michelin star restaurant Le Park 45 is situated on the famous la Croisette and boasts one of the best, sun-drenched terraces in Cannes! With beautiful views out to sea and their gardens, Le Park 45 is the Grand Hotel in Cannes' Michelin started restaurant that serves light and creative culinary delights with Mediterranean style.

Palme d’Or, Grand Hyatt Hotel Martinez, Cannes

Everyone has to experience the most famous restaurant in Cannes at least once in a lifetime. Holding 2 Michelin stars since 1991, the restaurant La Palme d’Or has an international reputation for its passion for food and offers a unique sensory and culinary experience. Enjoy fabulous views overlook the Croisette from the elegant white table-tops surrounded by pictures of movie stars that have visited the Palme d’Or.

A taste of the menu begins with asparagus on a bed of cucumber gazpacho, Dublin Bay prawns with beetroot or sweetbreads with a duck foie gras stuffing. Second course options like risotto with mullet roe are best left for heartier mains like Mediterranean Bass with green pea ravioli.

Mantel, Cannes

The legendary chef Noel Mantel began his career at the famous Negresco in Nice before co-running the Louis XV restaurant in Monaco and Residence de la Pinede in St Tropez. In 2002 Noel set up his own restaurant ‘Mantel’ just a few steps away from La Croisette and the Palais des festivals.

Noël Mantel creates sophisticated Mediterranean meals such as an Italian style risotto, perfectly roasted rabbit with thyme or traditional Fried zuchinni flowers, all made with passion and refinement.

Bistrot Gourmand

Bustling, friendly and simply great food. The Bistrot Gourmand is a classic Provencal bistro with bright French windows, modern art dotted on the walls and well-presented dishes of local favourites with a modern twist. The menu changes several times a week so each dining experience here will be delightfully different! We recommend the likes of the fillet of turbot in a lemon sauce with veg from the nearby Forville market which looks and tastes terrific. As do cod in fig leaves or lamb chops in a mustard sauce.

La Tonnelle

Take a gentle, picturesque cruise by boat from Cannes to visit this fantastic on the beach of Iles Saint Horant. La Tonnelle offers a unique dining experience of a relaxed and serene atmosphere whilst enjoying the local homemade wines produced by the islands monks. Serving seasonal produce, gourmet salads, fresh fish, grilled meats and other delectable Mediterranean inspired dishes.

How to choose your perfect rental property

Finding your perfect villa rental for a holiday can be daunting, especially for a group of people. The array of locations and companies to choose from can get confusing and hard to sort through when trying to find the best choice. What do I need to ask? How do I decide where is best? We have created a helpful checklist to ensure a smooth and simple booking process before arriving at your dream villa. 

Pip-point what most important to you

Beautiful modern villa VF-VB terrace at night

Have a clear vision in your mind of what you want from your holiday experience. Would you prefer a quiet, private hideaway or a villa that is seafront? Are you looking for something with modern interiors and design or traditional features and charm?

If you need staff, drivers or private security it is best to let us know in advance so that they can be easily organised in good time before your holiday. It is important to communicate your needs as clearly as you can to a specialist rental company such as Elegant Address South of France, so that our experts can efficiently match you with your ideal rental property for the perfect holiday experience.

Location, Location, Location

ST-001 is a stunning beachfront villa in St Tropez

You may prefer to be ‘close to a beach’ but there are a few to choose from along the French Riviera coastline so you’ll need to be sure where you would prefer to be. People enjoy visiting particular areas for different reasons, for instance if you want to see the Grand Prix you need to be in, or near Monaco, and if you want to be close to beaches, shopping and glamour you would choose Cannes or St Tropez. Even if you prefer a more quiet and cultural trip there are beautiful medieval towns that will charm you and invite you back each year. There really is a place for every taste on the Cote d’Azur, just try to narrow it down to your top 3 to help rental specialists find your perfect villa.

Have a budget in mind

It can be difficult to create and set a specific budget, especially if this is your first time visiting this region. You don’t have to divulge this information straight away, but it is always a helpful indicator for the specialists to know the limits of what you are willing to spend for the level of villa and lifestyle that you are looking for. A price range will really help narrow down our search, helping us to give you a clear overview of the market and what we can offer.

Pick up the phone

The team viewing properties in May 2016

Browsing villas on an agent’s website can give you a good idea of the property with images and description, but to find out the finer details and inside knowledge it’s best to talk to a specialists – That’s what they are there for! We know the regions inside out. We pride ourselves in our unrivaled level of knowledge of each region on the French Riviera and can recommend villas first-hand and answer questions you might not have thought of such as “Where is the nearest grocery store? What is the best local restaurant? How long is it to drive to the nearest beach?” Our specialist consultants also has access to more rentals that are in our private portfolio or that are new to market that they can offer to you after your ideal property.

Take advantage of extras

Villa ST-VS has its own helicopter

There are many of our rental properties that offer additional services and luxurious extras such as private chef, helicopter transfer, personal driver or even sometimes a boat with the villa. When enquiring about a property it’s always useful to see whether there are any of these services included in the rental price or if the rental has any trusted companies they regularly use or could recommend at a fair price. We have a great team of trusted contacts on the ground, allowing us to organise concierge services or any special requests with ease and discretion, allowing you to sit back and relax, with the arrangements in place to allow you to focus on enjoying the very best of the French Riviera. 

Top 5 private Beaches on the Cote d’Azur

The French Riviera is abundant with beautiful coastline and stunning white beaches. With so many beautiful places to spend the day relaxing in the sun, we have created a list of the top private beaches to enjoy on your visit to the Cote d’Azur.

Carlton Beach Club, Cannes

One of the most famous and sought after private beaches in the South of France, Carlton inter-continental beach in Cannes is high on the ‘must see’ list. Part of the prestigious Carlton Intercontinental Hotel, the Carlton beach club the perfect choice for spending an afternoon relaxing in maximum comfort. Relax under their lovely white and yellow striped parasols on the beautifully groomed sand or book a deck chair on the iconic Carlton pier – This is definitely place to be seen! This beach is open from 1^st July until mid-October, visit their website to reserve a sunbed, recommended in advance for a place on the pier.

Les Pecheurs Beach Club, Juan Les Pins

For a quieter, calmer setting to help you unwind in the sunshine; Les Pecheurs in Juan Les Pins in the perfect spot. On the grounds of a 5* hotel, this private beach boast beautiful uninterrupted views over the Lerins islands and the Esterel Mountains. As well as lounging under the parasols and swimming in the sea; you can also indulge in beauty treatments and massages in their ‘Wellness tent’. This beach is open from April until October, visit the Cap d’Antibes Beach hotel website to reserve your lounger and beauty treatments in advance.

Le Plage Barriere Le Majestic, Cannes

Open all year round, this is a fantastic choice for a day on the beach in June or a special lunch on the beach in November! Le Plage Barrier has the perfect location across the road from the ultra-lux Majestic Hotel in Cannes, on the famous La Croisette and just a few minutes’ walk from the Palais des Festivals. Le Plage Barriere boasts wonderful views out to the Lerin islands, the largest jetty on La Croisette, a large array of watersports, incredible food and glamourous music events in the evening. It’s easy to see why the the Plage Barriere is such a popular, upmarket private beach!  It is also popular with famous faces and filmmakers during Cannes Film Festival so this is the best location to people watch and ‘be seen’ whilst you enjoy a relaxing, luxury day at the beach.  

Le Provencal, Juan Les Pins

Just a few steps away from the vibrant heart of the seaside town of Juan les Pins; treat yourself to a day at the fabulous Le Provencal. The white sandy beach enjoys panoramic views of the Bay of Juan les Pins and Golfe Juan and is provides a perfect balance between lively and relaxing atmosphere  with its comfy sun loungers, live DJs and a fabulous restaurant (we highly recommend a pudding!). Visit their website here for more information and to book a table at the restaurant or private loungers on the beach.

Plage Beau Rivage, Nice

Plage Beau Rivage is situated on famous Promenade Des Anglais coastal strip of the beautiful town of Nice. It is also arguably the most fashionable and chic private beaches on the Nice coast. The beach itself is split into two areas: L’Espace Tendance which is a cool beach lounge and bar with music, and the L’Espace Zen which is an elegant and calm setting for tranquillity. Relax under crisp white umbrellas and beautiful decking before having a delicious lunch at the restaurant. Plage Beau Rivage also hold some great parties with DJ sets throughout the summer. Plage Beau Rivage is open from May to October, book online here.

Our South of France specialists can arrange any private beach reservations, luxury beach parties and restaurant reservations in advance alongside your villa booking. Get in touch today to start planning your perfect villa and holiday activities for a truly unforgettable stay in the South of France.  

8 reasons you need to visit France

1. It’s the European favourite

According to official statistics, tourism from within Europe accounts for more than 80 per cent of visitors to France. German’s are the biggest visitors with over 13 million a year, followed by Belgium and Italy. The Brits love it too though with 12.5 million of us jetting over a year!

2. Easy to get to

France shares its borders with eight different nations so it’s easy to ‘country-hop’ and make the make the most of your holiday, even if you just pop over for the day! It’s quick and (fairly) simple to arrive from the UK with the Eurostar and Eurotunnel as well as a fleet of ferries and of course airlines making multiple trips daily. 

3. The Weather

One of the most famous and favourable aspects of visiting the Cote d’Azur is the incredible weather. With bright blue skies, sparkling sunshine, hot summers and even enjoying mild climates during autumn, it’s no surprise that even the head to the sunny south on holiday. “Of the 60 per cent of French people who go away on holiday, some 80 per cent stay within their own country,” points out Anthony Peregrine, author of Telegraph Travel's Le Rosbif

4. The history and heritage

The French have a fantastic reputation for looking after their heritage and proudly promoting their history. They have a talent for keeping historical sites immaculate and interesting; making them relevant and exciting in the present as they were in their heyday. With war sites, historical colourful towns, chateaux’s and castles – You will find a great piece of history everywhere visit.

5. Incredible food

French food…..Enough said! It’s not all ‘escargot’, endless smelly cheese and baguettes (although we will never turn down a warm baguette fresh from the boulangerie) there are plenty of incredible foods to indulge in and dishes to try. Whether you prefer a family ran restaurant tucked away down a side street in a busy town or a Michelin star soiree with finest food imaginable, you will never go hungry – France is famous for its incredible culinary delights!

6. Fine wine 

Ever heard of a wonderful little thing called champagne? How about Claret or burgundy wine? These are all regions and marvelous types of wine that originate from France. There are 27,000 wineries in France and around 110,000 wine growers so there are plenty of famous wines and local ‘bring your own bottle to fill’ vineyards to try. Want to know the best wine bars on the French Riviera? Here is a local’s guide to their favourite wine bars in the region.

7. Perfect pit stop on a European road trip

If you are not one of the millions of people flying over to France then join the other many millions of visitors who pass through the country for a mini holiday on their way to another destination. It is well worth extending your holiday to spend a few nights on the fabulous Cote d’Azur, Paris or wine regions before heading to one of the country’s neighbours such as Spain or Italy. 

8. The mountains are calling

With its varied and incredible mountain ranges, France is one of the World’s biggest destinations for skiing. We love French skiing so much we set up a company that specialises in luxury chalets in the Alps! Whether you are looking for incredible Winter skiing or fantastic summer hiking and activities; there are plenty of stunning, popular resorts to explore and enjoy!

Top 5 things to see in Villefranche

Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the most charming and authentic french fishing villages on the French Riviera and is nestled between Monaco and Nice. The bay of Villefranche has been named one of the Top 5 most beautiful bays in the world and rightly so; this area is a visual delight for any visitor looking to explore the Cote d'Azur. 

Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, people watch at a cafe, go sightseeing or immerse yourself in authentic French lifestyle and cuisine - This delightful old fishing town is a must see. Below, see our top 5 recommendations to see in Villefranche during your trip.

1. Old Harbour

Lined with bright pastel coloured buildings and an array of traditional boats; the old harbour is the heart of Villefranche and oozes Mediterranean character and charm.This is popular place to take a stroll and stop for lunch or an aperitif with many bars and restaurants along the waterfront - Perfect for people watching!  There is also a beautiful small square (the Place Amelie Polonnais) just behind the harbour.

2. La Citadelle / Fort St Elme

Villefranche's imposing citadel is a great place to visit with its impressive architecture. This magnificent stone fortress was built by the duke of Savoy in 1557 to defend  to defend the city and harbour. Now, it's grand walls shelter the town hall, well-combed public gardens and several museum collections including the Fondation Musée Volti and the Musée Goetz-Boumeester.

3. Chapelle de Saint Pierre des Pecheurs 

This stunning, petite, roman-style Chapel is dedicated to St Peter, Patron Saint of fishermen. The ceiling and walls are filled with modern and mystic art  representing the lifestyle of the village and fishermen who used it when the artist Jean Cocteau was young. A charming local icon and pleasant pit stop whilst walking around and exploring the Villefranche.  

4. Plage de l'Ange

The longest stretch of beach is the southwest facing Plage des Marinières which curves around the bay. At the far end you will find a small, sheltered bay called the Plage de l'Ange Gardien. This is a less crowded, more peaceful pebble beach compared to the main Marinere beach and is hemmed by rocks making it easy to keep an eye on children whilst they have a paddle! 

5. Fort du Mont Alban

Built by order of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, between 1557 and 1560, Fort du Mont Alban is one of the most exemplary French military architectural structures dating back to the 16th century. This fort is in fantastic condition, despite the fact it was considerably affected in World War Two.

Fort du Mont Alban has one of the best views on the French Riviera. As it is located in a high hilly region, visitors can see virtually the entire Nice at west and Baie des Anges at east.

Top 5 French Riviera Dishes

There are so many delightful dishes to try on the Cote d’Azur with each town having its own twist and specialities on French classics. Seaside cities such as Cannes, St Tropez and Cap Ferrat have a seafront influence, with some of the best restaurants by their harbours with a fabulous selection of fresh fish on their menus.

We have created a list of our favourite dishes to try on your visit to the French Riviera and that you can attempt to make at home. Bon Apetit!

Salad Nicoise

An all time favourite and french crowd pleaser; a trip to the Cote d’Azur would not be complete without a salad Nicoise. This delicious, filling salad includes mixed salad leaves, tomatoes, red onion, olives, tuna, green beans, hard boiled eggs as well as occasionally new potatoes and anchovies. Best served with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Salad Nicoise Recipe

Ratatouille

Did you know ratatoille originated from Nice? Created in the Old Town of Nice, the ingredients can vary depending on tastes but essentially it is a mix of fresh herbs such as thyme and garlic with vegetables incudling onion, carrot, aubergine, courgette and tomatoes. This dish is often served as a side to either chicken or veal in France.

Classic Ratatouille Recipe

Soupe Au pistou

A delicious, indulgent soup made from a blend of fresh garlic, basil, olive oil and beans. This is a popular Provencal dish that can be enjoyed as a starter or a light lunch on the go.

Soupe Au Pistou Recipe

Moules et Frites

What better place to enjoy fresh mussels than sat in the French Riviera sunshine, looking out to the beautiful meditteranean sea? Hot crispy fries, a bucket of intensely fresh mussels marinated in garlic and white wine, served with a piece of crusty french baguette to mop up all of the flavour!

Classic French Mussels Recipe

Pissaladière

This is a gorgeous savoury tart made in the style of a pizza. This dish also originated from Nice, with traditional toppings inclusing caramelised onies, olives, garlic and anchovies. It’s a great choice for a starter or a lunch and you can grab it from most boulangeries for just a few euros.  

Delicious Pissaladiere Recipe

What are your favourite French dishes? Have you experienced a local delicacy whilst in the South of France? Let us know in the comments below! 

Guide to Saint Tropez

St Tropez is, quite simply, the most famous resort in Europe. In the 1940/50s in became the summertime haven for artists, philosophers and poets such as Satre and Picasso. Then Bridget Bardot appeared in the film 'And God Created Woman', transforming this local escape into and overnight transformed the peaceful fishing village into a sizzling jet-set favourite and hasn’t looked back since. St Tropez is a thriving tourist town with up to 60,000 visitors a day in the summer including an array famous face and some of the World’s wealthiest people.

Vieux Harbour

The atmospheric Vieux Port is the heart of Saint-Tropez, where the old fishing village first sprung to life. Visitors are charmed by the idyllic scene of small fishing boats and vast array of superyachts docked in the harbour, with some of the world’s wealthiest and most famous visitors on board.  The old harbour is lined by pastel-coloured Mediterranean houses and lively cafés with outdoor terraces. As you stroll along the sidewalk at the water's edge you will see local artists sell colourful artwork depicting scenes of Saint-Tropez. 

Duck beneath the archway, next to the tourist office, to uncover St-Tropez’ daily morning fish market , on place aux Herbes - the ancient market square that is filled with colourful fruit, vegetable, and flower stalls in the early morning. 

Places de Lices

St-Tropez’ legendary and very charming central square is studded with plane trees, cafes and pétanque players. Simply sitting on a cafe terrace watching the world go by or jostling with the crowds at its extravaganza of a twice-weekly market, jam-packed with everything from fruit and veg to antique mirrors and sandals, is an integral part of the St-Tropez experience. Aspiring pétanque players can borrow a set of boules from  Le Café bar where locals tend to hang on the other side of the square.

Where To Eat

La Tarte Tropézienne – bakery

Tarte Tropezienne is not only a famous type of cake, especially reknowned in Saint Tropez, but it also very busy and beautiful bakery. Many bakers and market stall owners try to recreate the simple yet delicious recipe but none of the taste like the ‘original’.

In 1955 a Polish baker, Alexandre Micka, opened a pâtisserie on the Place de la Mairie in the sleepy fishing village St Tropez.  

In it he proposed a brioche with cream based on his grandmother's recipe. Now it just so happened that the mythic film ‘And God created Woman’ was being shot nearby and Micka provided the catering.  A certain young rising star fell in love with his cake and suggested its name.  This star was none other than Brigitte Bardot and it was the success of this film that launched her career and established St Tropez as the place to be for the rich and famous.

La Vague d’Or, La Terrace, La Résidence de la Pinède

When is there a better opportunity to over-indulge in gastronomie than on holiday in St Tropez? The most exquisite cuisine is conjured up by France’s 2013 Chef Of The Year, Arnaud Donckele, at this three star Michelin restaurant. Customers are served in world class style and elegance, as would not only be expected at a Michelin starred restaurant, but at one of the region’s most exclusive hotels,

La Résidence de la Pinède. Renowned for his refreshing use of the best Mediterranean ingredients, Arnaud Donckele provides a fine dining experience for, arguably, St Tropez’s top tables to be seen at. Main courses start at €94 in the Vague d’Or restaurant, with extravagant sandwiches also served on La Terrace starting at €34.

Beaches

Pampelonne beach

This is the beach that has fuelled St Tropez’s fame since 1955. In high summer, it might welcome some 30,000 people a day. The mythic Pampelonne beach is St-Tropez's crown jewel of beaches, even if the actual location is Ramatuelle. Nearly five kilometres of fine, white sand separate the Mediterranean sea from acres of scrub-covered dunes. It's a site of remarkable natural beauty that offers a rural backdrop to the world's most glamorous beach party scene. At the same time, there's a bohemian side to St-Tropez that dates back to the 1950s.

Club 55

Probably the classiest and most discreet, with the choicest clientele of world politicians, Russian and Middle Eastern businessmen and, of course, Kate Moss. Sir Elton also shows up amidst the tamarisk trees. Elle MacPherson and Paris Hilton were among those spotted here in summer 2014.

The simplest possible cabin in the early 1950s, Club 55 was adopted as their canteen by the people making And God Created Woman - the Bardot movie that put St Tropez on the world stage in 1955, whence the club's name. It has never lost its appeal among the beautiful, the powerful and the clever. To have any chance of a summer table, book ahead.

Where To Stay

That’s where we come in. We are the UKs largest independent villa rental specialists for the Cote d’Azur and South of France. We pride ourselves in having unrivalled knowledge of all areas on the French Riviera, with over 10 years experience of building exceptional private portfolios of luxury villas, seafront villas and some of the most exclusive rental and sales properties in the South of France. 

Here are our favourite places to stay in St Tropez: 

Villa ST-PS

7 Bedrooms

Beautiful gardens 

Walking distance to the beach 

Two heated swimming pools 

5 minute drive from St Tropez centre 

View more details on this villa here: http://goo.gl/34gKa7

 Villa ST-308

6 bedrooms

Panoramic view

Situated within walking distance of Pampelonne beach and Club 55 

Boasts a 15m swimming pool and Jacuzzi

Fantastic outside ares with summer kitchen, bar and pool house

View more details on this villa here: http://goo.gl/aiY9Xk

Villa ST-194

400sqm Living Space 2000sqm Land Size

8 Bedrooms

8 Bathrooms

Panoramic Sea Views

Swimming Pool

Waterfront

View more on details on this villa here: http://goo.gl/QNVsQZ 

Browse all of our properties in St Tropez here, or contact our South of France award-winning specialists today to access our private portfolio and start your bespoke holiday rental search.

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