Destinations / France

France gave the world lots of little “bon mots” and a soupcon of “je ne sais quoi”, but surely the influence of the French Riviera has been to give us glamour, sophistication, impossible chic and, of course, the iconic image of Brigitte Bardot.

Resorts in the South of France - Ever associated with consumptive Victorians who flocked to Nice in their bath chairs (hence the name, Promenade des Anglais!), the area grew in stature to become the French holiday playground of millionaires and refuge of the jetsetters. Resorts like Cannes and St Tropez are paradise poseur platforms, linked to high fashion and all the trappings of opulence. Cannes even assumes the mantle of Lady of Light & Loveliness, hosting the Film Festival to welcome moguls and movie stars.

When it comes to holidays in France the exciting commercial city of Nice is no shy retiring relative either with its atmospheric Old Town, wonderful local markets, Art Galleries galore and shopping to keep any smart gal happy!

The gorgeous resort of Antibes, next door neighbour of Juan les Pins, is sassy, sophisticated and seriously trendy. Excellent infrastructure and a lovely sandy beach, combined with some nice background touches of history, make Antibes a much sought after holiday venue.

The picturesque towns and villages of the Back Country like Mougins, St Paul de Vence, Biot and Grasse are impossibly pretty and the realm of Monaco with the Rainier palace is like a fairytale kingdom. The casino, vast yachting marina and Monte Carlo Grand Prix circuit are casually thrown in the mix for good measure!