Maison Terre Blanche is in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of south eastern France. It is set amongst similar style upmarket villas and neighbours a five-star hotel with restaurants, a spa and two 18-hole golf courses.
The nearest village, around 6km by car, is on a peaceful hilltop surrounded by olive trees and the summer yellow of flowering broom. The old heart of the village is very small with quaint houses and tiny open squares-it has long been a centre for artists so look out for the decoratively painted doors and shutters.
The region is known as the “Pay de Fayence” and has many pretty villages including picturesque Callian facing hilltop Montauroux. Seillans has been recognised as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages in France while nearby Fayence has a world famous gliding centre. There are some lovely local walks through lush, wild vegetation in the three valleys of the Siagne River.
Having explored locally you are sure to want to head to glamorous Cannes (38km) where the iconic Boulevard de la Croisette curves around the coast, bordered by sandy beaches, grand hotels, lively bars and designer boutiques. There are plenty of watersports on offer here and La Croix-des-Gardes overlooking the city is a great spot for hiking trails where you are sure to pass some seasonal wildflowers. Spot the dolphins when you take the boat trip away from the bustle of Cannes to the Lérins Islands, places of beauty and tranquillity and great for bike ride or a swim in clear waters.
The beautiful port town of Fréjus (31km), known as “The City of Art and History”, is one of the sunniest places in France and well worth a visit. Look out for the old town with its coloured houses, the Roman ruins, Marina, fabulous sandy beach and some great walks surrounding the town. The Aqualand Waterpark and zoo is popular with both adults and children.
Take a break from the sea and the sand and drive eastwards towards the pretty town of Grasse (26km), the unofficial perfume capital of the world. There are free tours available at all of the most famous perfume houses or just wander around admiring the artisan shops and little boutiques. Nearby Opio (32km) is a tiny village perched on a hill where roses and jasmine are grown for the Grasse perfume industry or continue to visit Valbonne (44km) for a light lunch and some local speciality wine, made from Servan grapes.
If you love the great outdoors, Lac de Saint-Cassien (10km) offers a wealth of summer water sports, some glorious walks, horse-riding and other activities in a wonderful setting.
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.
