Le Balcon de Cannes is set in the hills behind Cannes, close to charming Mougins in the Alpes-Maritimes department of southern France, an ideal base for exploring the French Riviera and its beautiful hinterland.
On a lane winding through a residential area, enjoy amazing views out towards the Bay of Cannes from your perched position. Conveniently set back from La Provençale, it is also a great location for Nice Airport, under half an hour away by car.
The picture-postcard village of Mougins is 4km away, one of the Côte d'Azur’s most loved villages and once home to Pablo Picasso. There are more stunning views towards Cannes from its hilltop position when not exploring the warren of flower-lined medieval lanes filled with historic houses, little shops and inviting places to eat. Indeed, the village has a reputation for both art and gastronomy – an international festival of gastronomy takes place annually in June.
Heading down towards the coast, Cannes is around 6km away with its glorious sandy beaches, boat trips and watersports. There’s also the beauty of the town to discover from the historic quarter, Le Suquet, and the old port to La Croisette, one of France’s most famous boulevards. Cannes has a renowned reputation for its shopping, glamourous nightlife, vibrant markets and of course the Palais des Festivales.
Yet more gorgeous French Riviera beaches can be found around Juan-Les-Pins (12km), a chic seaside resort much loved by Parisians in the height of the summer with a number of beachside restaurants and vibrant bar scene. Walkers will adore Cap d'Antibes with its pretty coves and incredible coastal trails whilst the old town of Antibes (13km) is also a must-see with its historic ramparts and enchanting lanes.
Further along the coast, Nice (35km) and Monaco (55km) make fine days out, perhaps passing yet more picturesque spots such as Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Èze. Or hop on a ferry in Cannes and spend the day soaking up the tranquillity of the Lérins Islands, known for their idyllic beaches, fascinating history and wonderful walking trails.
There is also so much to explore across the Côte d'Azur hinterland from hilltop villages such as Biot and Opio to historic market towns including Grasse and Valbonne – the bustling Friday morning market in Valbonne is one of the best. Golf lovers have a great range of courses to choose from, including the prestigious Royal Mougins Golf Resort around 7km away, whilst keen hikers of all ages will love the many walking trails this region offers, especially through the nearby Valmasque forest.
The Region
Despite being renowned for its annual international film festival in May at the iconic Palais des Festivals, Cannes is not just a glamourous destination for the rich and famous. The attractive Côte d’Azur town is loved all year round for its palm-fringed beaches, upmarket shopping opportunities and wonderful restaurants as well as a certain French Riviera charm.
Stroll along Cannes’ iconic La Croisette boulevard following the footsteps of stars from years gone by as you admire prestigious hotels, luxurious boutiques and private beach clubs. Stop off for a cocktail as the sun sets and admire the twinkling lights across the bay. Even at night, La Croisette remains the vibrant heart of this bustling town.
Shop to your heart’s delight along the streets of the Carré d’Or district – come across hundreds of well-known stores along Rue d’Antibes. At the end of a busy day there’s a vast choice of restaurants to suit every taste and budget from authentic bistros spilling out on to the street to Michelin starred establishments.
Soak up the historic side of Cannes as you explore Le Suquet quarter’s medieval lanes passing little shops, atmospheric restaurants, flower-filled balconies and old fishermen’s houses. Climb to the top of the hill by Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance for stunning views of the harbour, followed by a visit to Château de la Castre and its popular museum. This part of Cannes is also home to the colourful Marché Forville showcasing the very best gourmet delights of Cannes and beyond.
Escape the crowds as you venture to Croix Des Gardes natural park with forest walking routes, botanical plants and glorious views across to the Lérins Islands. Look out for some fantastic boat trips from Cannes’ marina from whale and dolphin-watching excursions to family adventures on board a chartered yacht, sight-seeing ferries and romantic sun-set cruises.
Beyond the city centre, visit the ceramic studios and National Picasso Museum in Vallauris, follow Picasso’s footsteps in the enchanting hilltop village of Mougins (loved for its galleries and gastronomy) and appreciate the artistic vibe of Biot with beautiful views of the French Riviera. Chic Juan-les-Pins, so loved by Parisians in the summer, is home to beachside restaurants and more watersports whilst keen walkers will adore the incredible coastal trail around Cap d’Antibes.
In the other direction is the charming seaside village of Théoule-sur-Mer, backed by the dramatic Esterel massif, another paradise for hikers. By staying in one of our collection of handpicked rentals in Cannes you can experience all of this and more during your time on the glistening Côte d’Azur.
