Between Cannes and Antibes, less than 5km from the French Riviera coastline, Villa Albertine is in the heights of Vallauris with panoramic views towards the mountains and Mediterranean.
Part of a secured domaine, the natural beauty of this region is easily reached – the villa has direct access to a 3-hectare forested park with a hiking circuit and Roman remains. Within a 2.5km drive you will be in the heart of the French Riviera town of Vallauris, famed for its Picasso associations and ceramic studios alongside atmospheric restaurants and shops. The Musée National Pablo Picasso is just over 2km away whilst the seaside resort of Golfe-Juan and its marina are only ten minutes by car.
Heading west, Cannes (9km) and its iconic boulevard, La Croisette, is also a short drive away. Spend the day exploring this iconic city with its bustling Marché Forville, historic Quarter Le Suquet, boutiques, high-end restaurants, marina and sandy beaches with summer watersports. There is a variety of boat charters and excursions whilst ferries depart Cannes Harbour to the more tranquil Lérins Islands.
In the other direction is the chic seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins (6km), so loved by Parisians in the height of the summer. Discover yet more boat trips and water-based activities as well as beachside restaurants and a lively historic centre. Find time to soak up the charm of Antibes (7km) and its old quarter or admire Cap d’Antibes, home to luxurious villas, pretty bays and idyllic coastal walking trails.
Nice (27km) and Monaco (50km) are of course other fine days out, as are the many villages and towns of the Côte d'Azur hinterland. From the art galleries of enchanting Vence and St Paul de Vence, both just over half an hour away, to the gastronomic restaurants of Mougins (10km), the glass-blowing studios of Biot (12km) and the historic town of Valbonne (13km), especially loved for its Friday morning Provençal market.
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.
