The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
For those seeking the ultimate European getaway, few experiences rival the indulgent charm of a luxury road trip along the French Riviera. With its sun-soaked coastline, azure waters, and hilltop medieval villages, this stretch of Southern France has long been a playground for the rich and famous. Beginning your journey in Britain, you’ll cross the Channel through the Eurotunnel, emerging into France ready to wind your way south toward Nice, the shimmering heart of the Côte d’Azur. Here, your opulent escapade through the Riviera truly begins.
Once in Nice, check into the legendary Hotel Negresco, a Belle Époque masterpiece facing the Promenade des Anglais. The hotel’s lavish interiors, rich art collection, and Michelin-starred dining offer an immediate immersion into Riviera elegance. Spend your first evening savoring gourmet Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, Le Chantecler, while gazing out at the glittering Baie des Anges. Indulge in signature dishes such as roasted blue lobster with citrus butter or duck foie gras terrine, each artfully prepared to showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage.
By day, explore the cobblestone streets of Nice’s Old Town, brimming with colorful facades, bustling markets, and quaint cafes. Stop by the Cours Saleya market for fresh flowers and local delicacies, or visit the Matisse Museum to admire the master’s works. For panoramic views, climb Castle Hill, or spend a relaxing afternoon at the private beaches along the promenade, soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
Before setting off, ensure your vehicle is summer-ready. According to buycarparts.co.uk, tyres and brake pads should be inspected and replaced if necessary. Switching to summer tyres is essential for navigating the Riviera’s warm climate and winding coastal roads, ensuring both safety and optimal performance.
Alternatively, consider extending your route westward after exploring Nice and before heading toward Monaco, with a detour to the glamorous towns of Antibes and Cannes. In Antibes, stroll along the ancient ramparts and visit the Picasso Museum, housed in the Grimaldi Castle. Yachting enthusiasts will appreciate the Port Vauban, home to some of the world’s most impressive superyachts.
Continue to Cannes, famed for its international film festival. Wander along La Croisette, lined with luxury boutiques and sandy beaches, and stay at the legendary Hotel Martinez. For a taste of local flavors, dine at the two-Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or.
Your next stop is Monaco, just a 30-minute scenic drive from Nice along the Grande Corniche, offering breathtaking sea views. This opulent principality is synonymous with luxury, offering everything from designer boutiques to glittering casinos.
Stay at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, an icon of Belle Époque architecture. Enjoy a drink at the renowned Bar Américain or dine at the three-Michelin-starred Le Louis XV by Alain Ducasse, where Mediterranean flavors are elevated to celestial heights.
Experience Monaco’s unique attractions, including a tour of the Prince’s Palace, home to the Grimaldi family, or a visit to the legendary Monte Carlo Casino. Car enthusiasts should explore the Collection de Voitures de S.A.S. le Prince de Monaco, a dazzling display of vintage automobiles. If visiting in May, don’t miss the Monaco Grand Prix, a spectacle of speed and prestige set against the city’s glamorous backdrop.
Extend your stay with a spa session at Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, a temple of wellness perched above the Mediterranean. Indulge in their signature Diamond Anti-Aging Facial or unwind with a deep tissue massage using essential oils, all while enjoying sweeping sea views from the relaxation lounge. Afterward, stroll along Port Hercules, where luxury yachts bob in the harbor, or enjoy a sunset cocktail at the Yacht Club de Monaco.
Leaving Monaco, the road ascends into the hills to Eze, a medieval village perched dramatically above the sea. The cobbled streets and stone buildings feel frozen in time, offering one of the most picturesque stops on the Riviera.
Reserve a suite at Château Eza, a luxury hotel nestled within the village walls, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean. For lunch, enjoy the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, where gourmet French cuisine is served against the backdrop of the azure coastline.
One of Eze’s most unique experiences is a visit to the Fragonard Perfumery, where you can try your hand at creating a bespoke fragrance—a quintessentially French souvenir. Wander through the village’s art galleries and artisan boutiques, then visit the exotic Jardin Exotique d’Eze, home to rare plants and panoramic vistas.
For a touch of adventure, consider a guided hike along the Nietzsche Path, a rugged trail leading from Eze-sur-Mer up to the village, rewarding hikers with stunning sea views.
Next, glide down to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, known for its secluded beaches, pristine villas, and timeless glamour. Check into the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons property that epitomizes Riviera luxury with its infinity pool overlooking the sea and impeccable service.
A must-visit here is the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, an exquisite pink mansion surrounded by nine themed gardens. Built by Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, the villa offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the early 20th-century elite. Wander through the rose gardens, marvel at antique furniture, and enjoy classical music performances in the gardens during summer months.
Spend your afternoon exploring the peninsula’s picturesque walking paths, such as the scenic coastal trail from the villa to Paloma Beach. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the waterfront restaurant Club Dauphin, perched on the cliffs with direct sea views.
For dinner, head to the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Cap, offering a seasonal menu crafted from the freshest local ingredients, all enjoyed with breathtaking sea views. Complement your meal with selections from their extensive wine cellar, expertly guided by the sommelier, who ensures each pairing enhances the flavors of every dish. Savor specialties like blue lobster or tender lamb while watching the sun set over the Mediterranean.
As your road trip winds down, take time to linger in these sun-kissed locales. Each stop along the French Riviera offers a unique blend of history, opulence, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Nice to the cliffside charm of Eze and the refined elegance of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the journey is a symphony of experiences designed for the discerning traveler.
Whether you’re soaking in panoramic views, savoring haute cuisine, or crafting your own fragrance, this luxury road trip promises memories that linger long after the journey ends. Now is the perfect time to plan your own escape along the French Riviera—immerse yourself in the glamour, history, and breathtaking beauty of this iconic destination and create unforgettable moments of your own.
And as any seasoned traveler knows, preparation is key—ensuring your car is ready with proper summer tyres and well-maintained brake pads allows you to embrace every twist and turn of the Riviera in true Beaumonde Traveler style.
