Explore the South of France
Whether you are into cultural discovery, chill time at the beach, hiking, shopping or discovering the local cuisine, there is definitely a place for you on the French Riviera.
Getting there
To get to the wedding, you have plenty of travel options! Flying into Nice Airport is super convenient for international guests, while those coming from Paris, Lyon, or Marseilles might enjoy a scenic train ride along the French Riviera. It's a great way to see the sights and be kind to the planet. The closest train station is Cagnes-sur-Mer. Here are some metrics:
New York to Nice: ~6437 km (4,000 miles), ~8-hour flight, ~1.3 tonnes CO2 per person (round trip), around €600 (round trip)
Paris to Nice: ~853 km (530 miles), ~5.5-hour train ride, ~0.03 tonnes CO2 per person (round trip), around €90 (round trip)
Nantes to Nice: ~1072 km (666 miles), ~8-11 hour train ride, ~0.04 tonnes CO2 per person (round trip), around €130 (round trip)
Paris to Nice: ~930 km (578 miles), ~9-11 hour drive (including breaks), around €500 (fuel + tolls)
Nantes to Nice: ~1072 km (666 miles), ~10-12 hour drive (including breaks), around €600 (fuel + tolls)
Nice
Exploring the Heart of Nice, where Claire grew up and Max became a PhD in Physics. Here are some activities that shaped their life in Nice:
Walking on the Promenade des Anglais
Hanging out in the Vieux Nice
Going to Cours Saleya and its flower market
Seeing the sunset from the castle
Visiting the Musée Matisse
Saint-Paul de Vence
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the charming streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence come alive with a warm, golden glow. Wandering through the quaint alleys, one can't help but be enveloped by the enchanting elegance that has inspired countless artists. With a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of the ancient olive trees. It's a place where time stands still, and the simple pleasures of life, art, and nature intertwine beauty. And yes, we love making descriptions like famous painters, such as Maestro Stupallacci.
Walk around the village
Have lunch at Les Tilleuls or Les Remparts
Hang out in the alleys and see artist exhibitions
Have an Icecream under an olive tree
Play at typical southern game: la pétanque with a glass of pastis
Fondation Maeght
Saint-Paul de Vence
Be amazed by modern art expression with stained glass windows of Juan Miró and Alberto Giacometti sculptures
Cannes
Visiting Cannes in May offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Cannes Film Festival. The festival not only showcases international films but also fosters cultural exchange.
The Festival de Cannes will take place from the 13th to the 24th of May 2025.
Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a little slice of paradise! Think stunning pebble beaches with crystal-clear water (perfect for a dip!), charming coastal trails, and hidden coves waiting to be explored. You can even stroll along the Sentier du Littoral and discover the exact spot where Max proposed! Whether you're a sunbather, a hiker, or a swimmer, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has something special for you.
Eze
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the South of France, the village of Eze offers an enchanting escape for those willing to embark on a bit of a hike. As you ascend the winding paths that lead to this charming village, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding mountains. Eze is renowned for its medieval architecture, with narrow cobblestone streets lined with vibrant flowers and quaint shops.
Monaco
Escape to the enchanting principality of Monaco, where luxury and glamour meet breathtaking scenery. Explore the legendary Monte Carlo Casino, wander through the lush Jardin Exotique, or witness the heart-pounding action of the Monaco Grand Prix. Stroll through the historic streets of the Rocher de Monaco, the ancient clifftop district that houses the Prince's Palace and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean. Indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine, soak up the sun on pristine beaches, and experience the allure of this captivating destination.
The Monaco Grand Prix will be held from 22nd to 25th May 2025.
Nestled on the French Riviera, where the azure waters meet the vibrant hues of the Italian border, discover the sun-drenched charm of Menton. Wander through the narrow streets of its old town, a maze of pastel-colored houses and hidden squares. Lose yourself in the fragrant lemon groves, and explore the magnificent Jardin Serre de la Madone, a botanical paradise overlooking the sea.
Menton
Sports
Sports
Hiking
Here some of the hikes we did and loved:
Baou de Saint-Jeannet:
Difficulty: Easy.
Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours round trip.
Distance: 5.8 km
Elevation gain: 400 meters.
Highlights: Exceptional 360-degree panoramic views of the French Riviera
Things to note: The trail is exposed to the sun, so bring sunscreen and a hat
Lac de Trécolpas:
Difficulty: Medium.
Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours round trip.
Distance: 9.5 km
Elevation gain: 523 m
Starting point
Highlights: Lac de Trécolpas is a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by pine and fir forests.
Things to note: Try to swim in the lake, warning: it is quite refreshing
Rock Climbing
Water sports
Baou de Saint-Jeannet:
Difficulty: 2a to 8c+
Number of routes: 437
Topo: https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/france/saint-jennet
Highlights: Exceptional 360-degree panoramic views of the French Riviera
Things to note: The trail is exposed to the sun
La Turbie:
Difficulty: 3a to 8b+
Number of routes: 506
Topo: https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/france/turbie-grand-paroi
Highlights: If you hike La Tête de Chien you can have a beautiful view on Monaco
Things to note: The trail is exposed to the sun
La Colle-sur-Loup:
Difficulty: 4a to 7b+
Number of routes: 78
Topo: https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/france/la-colle-sur-loup
Highlights: near Saint-Paul de Vence
To top it all off, the Mediterranean sea is your playground! Try your hand at sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing. Explore hidden coves, go snorkeling amongst colorful fish, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun