Discoveries galore await from Spain’s border to Italy’s Ventimiglia and north along the majestic Rhone to Lyon with the Alps as a backdrop, one can follow Napoleon’s historic route – “Route Napoleon” from Grenoble to Antibes – discovering other treasures! Only in France these discoveries await…from historical ruins to tempting croissants, delightful Rose de Provence and enchanting works of art by Masters coupled with sublime French architecture on Nice’s Promenade des Anglais or Cannes famed star-studded Croisette to historical Avignon, Arles, Perpignan, Marseille, and Lyon.
South from Paris by plane, boat, train, or car one finds amazing diversity – towering Alps, Rhone River’s delights, gorges like Verdun, historical traces from Nimes, Arles west plus vineyards, orchards, beautiful beaches bathed in turquoise waters and unspoiled nature galore…River cruises are a delight from Lyon to Marseille with breathtaking views and many historical visits.
A major geographical region with unlimited delights… Provence, Var, Bouches-du-Rhone’s wines are adored – light refreshing Rose and White’s entice, with bold Reds cherished by most. Pastis – the amber aniseed drink created in 1932 by Paul Ricard – is “the” aperitif . Plus perfect at fun Pétanque matches. Goes well with Tapenade, served everywhere. Famed for its Bouillabaisse – with its four types of fish cooked in rockfish stock with lots of “rouille” (spicy saffron sauce), garlic, tomatoes, onions, saffron and herbs. A delight! Ratatouille – assorted mixed fresh vegetables cooked with garlic and herbs- is not to miss. Aioli is garlic mayonnaise; try an Aioli Garni – a mound of fresh vegetables and fish topped with aioli. St. Tropez’s original Tarte Tropézienne – sugar coated brioche with an intense fruit-flavored cream – has calories galore!
History and Heritage
From the Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Provence Alps, Rhone- Alps north the Cote’s boundaries are Spain, Occitanie, Italy, Mediterranean Sea on the south. This is now the second most populated area of France. Booming since the 1990’s expansion continues due to its superb climate, wonderful infrastructure in spite of the chilly mistral which blows frequently. It houses some of France’s largest populations – Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Nice, Toulon. Famed Corsica belongs to this jurisdiction as does the Principality of Monaco, an independent nation.
Celts were early inhabitants of western areas, their tribes flourished with the Greeks colonising nearby Marseilles prior to the Roman arrival adding to their Empire. Romans continued their conquests towards Italy and the north adding conquered lands like Monaco.
Natures and Landscapes
Sunny Mediterranean climate delights all year with snow and skiing in higher regions. The large national reserves offer a variety of nature to discover in their habitats. From rocky cliffs to Verdun’s superb gorges, rocky points, blue bays, one discovers great hikes, trails, picnics away from the crowds of La Croisette or St. Tropez’s beach paradise. Biking is a true delight and challenge – climbing Mont Agal is a great start for other Cote challenges and Rhone Alps delights! Provence’s Lavender Route calls too.
Art and Culture
Pre-historic, Roman and other discoveries await—do step back in time to enjoy these unique ruins, superb architecture and artists’ works – some were residents adoring the sublime surroundings inspiring their creativity. Museums galore -perfume, nature, art…Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, Renoir are some who adored the Cote and its light, sea scapes, hilltop villages. From Vallauris Picasso’s National Museum to Nice’s Chagall National are tops, don’t miss St. Paul-de-Vence’s architectural Maeght with its amazing Miro, Chagall, Giacometti offerings. Other attractions like Vence’s Matisse Chapel of the Rosary… one of many delights and the steps of Cezanne with his superb works! Provence’s abbeys, Roman ruins and historic discoveries from Arles to Perpignan should be enjoyed.
Famed Cannes Film Festival is just one of the global manifestations during the year. Check the calendar for other delights from Lyon south. Founded by the Romans, Lyon – France’s gastronomic capital – enchants with its renown landmarks, its Old town, are musts. Dining discoveries – reserve ahead – are unforgettable.
Gastronomy
Like a donut – Bugnes is adored in France; Corsicans call it ‘Frappe’, before Carnival it’s a Mardi Gras favorite, Lyon adores them too. Gourmet shopping in Lyon’s delicatessens is memorable; don’t miss discovering Lyon’s Halles Bocuse – guides are available too! Cheese delights and crafting are special – discover goats milk cheese making in Bouches-de-Rhone with tasty additions of Provence’s herbs or shallots. Aioli – a garlic mayonnaise – enhances many dishes. Ratatouille – mélange of onions, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, peppers, garlic, herbs in casserole has become globally adored. Black truffles are everywhere in season-don’t miss them; a true regal in an omelet here! Sweets lovers will adore Nougat—chewy white nougat is so revered now everywhere! Tapenade is a must at “apero”—a black olive dip with capers, anchovies, garlic, olive oil -not to be missed. Fromage de chèvre – goat’s cheese – is popular – many varieties to taste and enjoy.
Tourism Cote d’Azur – Highlights
Globally famed the Cote d’Azur or “French Riviera” stretches from the Italian border to west of St. Tropez, this hilly spectacular coastline of the Alpes-Maritime with many famed sites and beaches. The Principality of Monaco is a semi-enclave in the region fronting the Mediterraean.
History and Heritage
French Riviera came from British frequentation including Royalty along the eastern part of the coastline; inhabited since pre-historic times according to artifacts and primitive tools discovered plus Bronze Age discoveries. Greeks first, the Romans followed. European Royalty enjoyed the sailing, warm climate. Monaco’s first Casino was built in 1856 by Prince Charles III. Artists flocked too, then returned, settling after WW II.
The Cannes Film Festival debuted in 1946. Prince Rainer’s 1956 marriage with Grace Kelly brought more attention as did new conference centers, museums, international congresses bringing over 50% of guests from afar. Surprisingly, Toulon is sunnier than Nice. Rallyes, tennis, golf, sailing and festivals populate the numerous attractions. Antibes’ Fort Carré – one of the first built during the Renaissance – evolved strategically until the 19th century; it offers a superb view of the Old Town and Antibes’ bay. Monaco’s rallyes, casinos, sporting events, activities captivate globally enticing active tourists – playing a round at Monte Carlo Golf Club is nec plus ultra – almost like driving a Ferrari along the Corniche!
Nature and Landscapes
From Menton and Monaco’s Mt Agal, mountains and narrow valleys cascade to beautiful beaches along the blue Mediterraean past Nice, Cannes beyond St. Tropez. Great for swimming with numerous beach bars and all the nautical sports one can desire plus rare hidden coves to discover. Inland activities like skiing are seasonal. The famed 1815 Route de Napoleon which he took on his return from Elba starts in Antibes or Grasse winding through Sisteron, Gap, Col Bayard, to Grenoble stretching over 300 kms along foothills and the Alps. Dignes’s Chateau de Malijan, lavender galore on the Plateau de Valensole, hot water springs and Sisteron’s Citadelle plus top museums – the Gallo-Roman and the Napoleon – add interesting discoveries.
The village of Menton and its annual Lemon Festival
Charming Cities and Villages
The Cote d’Azur offers a variety – larger cities like Nice, Cannes, Toulon, Monte Carlo and delightful villages like Antibes, Villefranche, Èze, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Cagnes, Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat, Grasse, Mougins, Mandelieu, Théoule-sur-Mer, Saint-Tropez are popular. Antibes’ old town, cathedral, and port Vauban are delights to enjoy like Cannes’ Croisette, Palais des Festivals, trendy markets, and visits to Iles de Lerins. Nature lovers should visit the Gorges de Verdon – superb near Castellane. Famed Grasse’s Museum of Perfume is a delight as is the nearby quaint village of Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey. Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat’s Villa Santo Sospir is an emblematic Côte d’Azur landmark that combines art, culture and history. Cocteau’s sketching on the white walls forming a “tattoo” are amazing; by appointment only. Delightful too in Villefranche-sur-Mer is Villa Rothschild’s 16-19th century art collection, uniquely housed including an incredible collection of Sevres, do visit Saint-Michel Church too. Reservation only.
Grasse Village
Saint-Tropez’s Old Port and its many boutiques, relaxing restaurants are globally tops…don’t miss sunbathing, « bubbly », and glitz at Pampelonne Beach with stars, celebs on white sand !
Saint-tropez
Charming Corsica’s craggy peaks, cosy coastal villages, beautiful beaches, forests, and nature in a laid-back atmosphere enchant all with fabulous hikes, superb swimming, France’s “la dolce vita” and an Italian allure too. The Phoceans in 11th Century BC introduced wines which are rich and varied today – adored everywhere. Corsica’s cheeses tempt all like their cured meats; seafood tastes are regal. Napoleon – Corsican by birth – ruled France for a decade before defeat at Waterloo. “A must” discover in Europe is Paul Canarelli’s sublime 17th Century Orlotto Valley Domaine de Murtoli***** nestled perfectly in Corsica’s nature with lovely beaches, a Kyle Phillip’s design golf layout after Scotland’s Prestwick famed 12 holes track, Michelin starred cuisine, plus Canarelli’s wines to delight every moment of this heavenly visit. Golfers wishing a unique photographic round must play famed Sperone Golf Club – exciting testing golf with unique tees and views at the island’s tip !
The Abartello restaurant in Corsica near Propriano
Festivals and Traditions
Main events are February’s Mardi Gras Nice Carnival, June’s Ironman, Antibes Cote d’Azur Rallye, May’s Cannes Film Festival, Monaco Grand Prix, Voiles d’Antibes, Saint-Tropez’s Giraglia. The Tarasque de Tarascon – a folklore dragon from Tarascon- young and old gather to celebrate this medieval myth in festival – offers unique fun for guests. One of many…
Tourism in Provence and West
From the Southern Alps and Camargue to Pyrénées Orientales lies Provence – famed for its lovely landscapes – adjacent to the Rhone with delights of Nimes, Arles, Perpignan to the West plus lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards, mountains and pine forests. Charming Aix-en-Provence founded by the Romans in 123 BC, Marseille with its ports, commerce, and yachting activities, idyllic Camargue Europe’s largest river delta enchants as do many antiquities Roman and medieval found mainly in Nimes, Arles, Perpignan. Do enjoy the lavender fields….
History
Conquered in 2nd century BC by Rome, it was their first province abroad. Counts of Provence ruled with special status until France incorporated in 1486. Avignon was home to the Pope; the original Palace of the Popes still stands. Historical ruins, architectural discovers abound everywhere and are treasured.
Nature and Landscapes
Nature lovers are enchanted with the Provencal Alpilles’ superb villages, Senanque Abbey, Gorges du Verdon, Calanques National Park, etc. Meander through Saint-Remy de Provence, les Baux de Provence’s quaint towns, scenic landscapes are memorable.
The incredible Verdon Gorges
Cities and Villages
Aix-en-Provence welcomes all. A University town and Cezanne’s birthplace, boasts lots of vibrant cafés. A major port in the South of France, Marseille founded by the Greeks still bustles. Vieux Port is lively—with restaurants, bars, nightlight life. Cathedral de Notre Dame-de-la-Garde Romanesque-Byzantine and Le Corbusier’s Cite Radieuse plus Hadid’s Tower are famed landmarks. Marseille will host the Olympic Regattas at the Olympic Marina — best to stay in this area if interested in regattas plus seaside fun. Arles situated on the Rhone, inspired many of Van Gogh’s works. Arles’ ancient theater – Arenas hosts concerts, plays, and many bullfights. Nimes is famed for its treasures; well-preserved Roman monuments like Nimes Arena’s sensational double-tiered 70 A.D. amphitheater. Today, it features concerts and bullfights. Pont du Gard – a tri-level aqueduct and the 2000-year-old white limestone Roman temple – Maison Carrée, are other relics. Béziers is famed for it’s five-day corrida – Feria de Béziers with over a million guests annually. While former capital in the 13th Century of Majorca, Perpignan’s Palace of the Kings of Majorca offers amazing views; an interesting town it has a Catalan core and an imposing Cathedral.
Auvergne-Rhone-Alps
Globally famed for its winter resorts and superb national parks Auvergne-Rhone-Alps is a delight in summer too. They were administratively joined with Lyon as capital. Perfectly situated at the joining of the Rhone and Saône rivers, Lyon’s history dates back over 2000 years with the Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules. Vieux Lyon’s, covered passageways to today’s modern district, reflect its history in its architecture. Gastronomic capital of Europe, Lyon is also renowned for its educational facilities, diverse cultural activities; it is considered the second most beautiful city in the world after Kyoto by Conde Nast. Engaging Grenoble is the second largest city.
Tourism in Auvergne-Rhone Alps
From history to wine, gastronomic delights, to challenging activities from skiing to climbing summits, memories await. Fabled Cotes du Rhone, Savoie, Beaujolais to taste with local tripe “andouillette” or sugary marrons glacés are not to be missed. Gourmets are spoiled with a galaxy of Michelin starred restaurants and chefs to pamper the palate; Paul Bocuse’s *** is a must – Bon App! Besides the Alps don’t miss Puy de Dome Europe’s most famed volcano with routes to amazing summit views. The medieval center of Chambéry charms as does tiny Le Puy-en-Velay. Thermes and spas dot this region from popular Divonne-les-Bains, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains and renowned Evian-les-Bains.
“La Mer de Glace”, Chamonix Mont-Blanc
History
Gallic tribes governed from 52 BC; their resistance to Julius Caesar was historical. Auvergne thrived in Roman times. An important trade route, the Rhone connected various Roman provinces to the Mediterranean.
Nature and Landscapes
Rhone-Alps famed regional and national parks plus almost 50 natural reserves allure, as do ancient fortresses and ruins, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and interesting Romanesque Renaissance discoveries for all. Famed Mt. Blanc is a must— testing skiing, challenging world-renowned climbing with Chamonix at its French base – it straddles France, Italy and is the Alps highest summit.
Arts and Culture
In 1994 UNESCO’s Chauvet Cave was discovered with its masterpieces of over 36,000 years; to share them a replica cave was created. Over 20 of France’s most beautiful villages are found here…Lavaudieu, Vogüé and more. Saint-Etienne’s Modern Art Museum and Firminy designed by Le Corbusier, inspire all.
Gastronomy
From Alpine delights to orchards, vineyards, discover Bresse poultry, Grenoble walnuts and more, plus 17 protected cheeses for local delights of “raclette” and “tartiflette” – not to mention top wines. Start in Lyon and explore…PDO cheese routes of Auvergne and Savoie visit maturing cellars, farms, dairies, etc with gourmet stops including Tomme de Savoie, Reblochon and more. Just one of the many gastro-travel suggestions for foodies. Almost a third of France’s Michelin three-stars are located here – from Georges Blanc, Maison Troisgros, to Anne Sophie Pic, Lyon legend Paul Bocuse and his expansions, offer temptations galore. Chocolate fanatics shouldn’t miss a visit to Lyon’s Museum in Limonest or the Cité du Chocolat Valrhona.
Activities
All the Alpine sports are adored here –from ice skating, skiing, cross-country, curling, sledding, snow-shoeing to summer activities of hiking, biking, tennis, golf, and fishing galore. Lakes abound plus the Rhone and rivers, ponds for fishing, swimming. Trails, paths from circling Mt. Blanc to summer glacier hikes enchant.
Cotes d’Azur, Provence & West, Auvergne-Rhone-Alps Gastronomy
We offer you a selection of establishments for each region to give you an overview of the region’s diversity.
Cotes d’Azur Gastronomy
Delights from “soupe au pistou”- summer vegetable soup and “bourride” – fish soup are typical specialties with salads, grilled dishes and local “Provençale” aioli accents plus some Italian influences closer to Italy. Dining options range from a classic cafe La Turbie’s Café de la Fontaine if golfers don’t want to dine at Monte Carlo’s Golf Club’s terrace also tops. Nearby breathtaking Relais & Chateaux Èze’s Chèvre d’Or – both a hotel with Michelin-star restaurant – plus others that wow. Not only for the views but culinary excellence – one can always have an apero too! Saint-Jean’s Leo Lea Bar Lounge Restaurant tempts too. Port dining in St. Jean-Cap Ferrat means La Goelette. Fabrik Factory Beaulieu-sur-Mer offers an amazing magret de canard with other delights- plus superb warm squid entree. Popular seafood dining in Cannes, try the amazing selection at Astoux et Brun!
Some superb delights may be enjoyed…
Mirazur, Menton. Typical Mediterranean flavors and dishes at this Michelin starred table.
La Colombe d’Or, Saint-Paul de Vence. Breathtaking setting for this culinary classic restaurant is a must.
Nice’s Chantecler, Hotel Negresco. Unique dishes, creative cuisine are to be found in this gastronomic palace.
La Palme d’Or, Cannes. Chef Christian Sinicropi charms all with his starred Michelin modern cuisine in an elegant setting.
L’Oasis, Mandelieu-la-Napoule. Set in a beautiful garden overlooking Cannes, another Michelin delight seduces guests with its creativity.
Provence and the West Gastronomy
A must is bouillabaisse – so many tastes as one leaves Marseille going west like the superb “Supions” – tiny squids. Enchanting…and to share with others is joyful. But don’t miss their sweets “Navettes de Marseille” a biscuit and “Chichis Fregis”- similar to Churros! Marseille has adopted “Poke” from Hawaii—so many Poke places are great with Provence flavors! Best bet at the Vieux Port is Brasserie Le Soleil—smiling, welcoming service plus a great menu – moules frites are tops plus squid salad divine. Great wines, ambiance…Mariners and regatta enthusiasts can indulge at Marseille’s Relais & Chateaux’s Le Petit-Nice Passedat de Chef Gerard Passedat Michelin starred is not far from Olympic Marina.
Some suggestions for dining in Provence with an assortment of local products and specialties include:
L’Oustalet, Gigondas. Michelin starred its famed selections are typical of Provence’s finest.
La Bastide de Moustiers, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Chef Alain Ducasse delights all with this dining experience in the breathtaking heart of the Alpes-de- Haut-Province.
Marseille’s Chez Fonfon located on the seaside entices with its selections of seafood in a relaxed ambiance.
Paradou’s Le Bistrot du Pardou is traditional welcoming all with its seasonal specialties, local tastes.
Auvergne and Rhone -Alps Gastronomy
Delights include Lyonnaise Frisée salad, Grenoble’s White Asparagus, Chocolate Truffles, Gateau Ardéchois – chestnut cream cake…all the healthy tastes. Enjoy… perfect with the sublime local wines. Lyon’s famed “Train Bleu” is a dining delight for all as well as testing superb Michelin “star” restaurants.
Some suggestions for unique discoveries in Auvergne…
La Maison des Saveurs, Montpeyroux. Known for its local expertise in a warm, tasteful setting, guests adore this discovery.
Boudes’s La Table is located in an old postal relay station. Gastronomic dining awaits with an assortment of local fresh flavors.
Le Chaudron de l’Étang, Le Mont-Dore. A Michelin famed restaurant with an elegant style is known for its varied selections of local gastronomy.
L’essentiel, Le Breuil-sur-Couze. A family restaurant highlights Auvergnate flavors and dishes in a charming rustic setting.
Le Clos des Cimes, Saint-Genès-Champanelle. Refined classic elegance awaits at this popular Michelin starred venue – reserve ahead.
Rhone-Alps cuisine is extraordinary, some suggestions are …
Bocuse’s Auberge du Pont de Collonges, Collonges-au-Mont d’Or. Famed globally Paul Bocuse delights guests with superlative cuisine and signature dishes for his *** Guide Michelin status.
La Pyramide, Vienne. Contemporary cuisine awaits at Chef Patrick Henriroux’s restaurant with its ** Michelin award.
Lyon’s Mère Brazier was established by celebrated Chef Eugenie Brazier and today is managed by starred Chef Mathieu Viannay offering classic, elegant French cuisine.
Le Clocher des Pères, Saint-Alban-de-Roche. A XVII century cloister hosts this starred gastronomic delight with a variety of local products and tastes.
Annecy’s La Rotonde des Trésors is perched above beautiful Annecy Lake offering a Michelin starred inventive, creative seasonal cuisine.
Where to Stay from Monaco to Perpignan ?
Recommendations depend on tastes and budgets; we offer a variety of choices.
Cote d’Azur Favorites
A favorite is Domaine de Manville**** which also offers golf plus a variety of amenities. Several golf courses like Royal Mougins*****, Pont Royal***** have lodging making for a relaxing visit in verdant surroundings. Must play Monte Carlo GC doesn’t have accommodations on site; Monaco offers a great variety plus Casino fun.
Manville Golf and Resort
Selection of hotels between Monaco and Perpignan :
Hotel Hermitage Monte Carlo, Monaco. Globally known this starred luxury hotel is in the heart of Monaco with majestic views of the Mediterraean, world famed clientele, plus top service.
Hotel Martinez, Cannes. Perfectly situated on the Croisette known for its Hollywood glamour and superb Art Deco style, plus its famed private beach.
Hotel Negres
[excerpt] => To the east of Paris, where Marne-la-Vallée unfolds, the Golf de Bussy-Guermantes is far more than a collection of fairways and shimmering water hazards. It is, above all, a place of growth and transmission. The club has set itself a clear mission: to nurture, encourage, and refine young golfers, transforming its course into a true field of expression.
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[excerpt] => Barely fifteen minutes from Bordeaux’s urban bustle, you find yourself deep in a pine forest. At Bluegreen Pessac★★★, the scene changes abruptly: 120 hectares of nature, a wooded sanctuary where the hush of the pines contrasts with the city’s energy. For visitors from Paris or abroad, it offers an unexpected breath of calm — a pause where golf becomes an escape.
[date] => 13 October 2025
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[excerpt] => In 2025, the Orient Express revives a magic once thought confined to novels: that of a journey where the point of departure fades away, allowing the traveler to savor the present in motion. On board La Dolce Vita, Italian landscapes unfurl like the shop windows of a Parisian night glimpsed from a taxi—except here, it is rolling hills, vineyards, and legendary golf courses that pass by, offered to the eye as fleeting tableaux.
[date] => 28 August 2025
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