For me, The Riviera is one of the best places ever. Some places seem to exude style and elegance.Nice has everything, the beach, the culture, the views, the shopping and the restaurants. So read on for my itinerary for a weekend in the Riviera.
If you get the opportunity to spend a few days in the Riviera then this would be my dream itinerary
- Shopping in the streets off Place Massena and Cours Saleya in Nice. The mix of lovely luxury brands and high street staples run alongside the gorgeous flower markets of Cours Saleya. The scent and colours of the flowers early in the morning, appreciated from one of the many pavement cafes, is perfect for people watching over a Cafe Gourmand.
- With aching feet after a morning shopping, hobble into the luxury of the Hotel Negresco. Situated in pride of place on the Promenade des Anglais, its lovingly known locally as the Pink Nipple, which aptly describes its prominent pink dome. Stop to muse at the eclectic objet D’art in the foyer and then find a cosy corner in Le Bar. The sort of place you could imagine Clark Gable and Greta Garbo walking into, its oak panelled loveliness embraces you in nostalgia as you sip your espresso martini.
- Dinner should be La Petite Maison. Renowned as much for its slight eccentricities, to be found as much in its owner as its cuisine! It has hosted the worlds glitterati over the years so be prepared to rub shoulders with a few familiar faces if you are lucky enough to get a table in the summer at all.
- Looking for somewhere to show off that fabulous bikini you dieted all winter to fit into? A myriad of expensive beach clubs litter the Riviera. Secret, small secluded ones like Paloma Beach off the coast road near Jean Cap Ferrat or the mainstream beach clubs on the Promenade, or the famous Croisette in Cannes will delight you. My favourite, La Martinez annes is a portrait of Art Deco glam and its beach club is a lovely mix of high end and laid back. Book a year ahead for a sunlounger or prepare to take out a mortgage but once in, you may be interested in the plethora of gorgeous people who keep wandering past and catching your eye. Before you think you're luck is in, please be reminded that beach modelling is a "thing" and they are looking for a sale rather than a smooch. Go on a day where the boys are modelling boxer shorts, you won't be disappointed.
- With aching feet after a morning shopping, hobble into the luxury of the Hotel Negresco. Situated in pride of place on the Promenade des Anglais, it's lovingly known locally as the Pink Nipple, which aptly describes its prominent pink dome. Stop to muse at the eclectic objet D’art in the foyer and then find a cosy corner in Le Bar. The sort of place you could imagine Clark Gable and Greta Garbo walking into, its oak panelled loveliness embraces you in nostalgia as you sip your espresso martini.
- For a little culture, head away from the beach to some of the villages in the foothills. The cobbled streets and art galleries of St Paul de Vence are charming and an ice cold glace at Le Teuil is the perfect accompaniment to savour the view of the coast. Grasse is famous for its perfume factory and Valbonne market in the beautiful main square on a Friday is an easy way to wile away a morning and the best market in my view on the Riviera.
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