Villa Crystal can be found on the wonderful Cap d’Antibes peninsular in the Côte d'Azur, just a short stroll from the Mediterranean and also walking distance from the beaches and restaurants of chic Juan-Les-Pins.
You just need to wander out of your gated grounds, down the road and you will reach a little marina in just 200m. A little further there’s a small beach with summer watersports such as jet-ski, sea-kayaking and diving.
Continue wandering up the coast towards the brilliant beaches and vibrant restaurants of Juan-Les-Pins, around 20 minutes on foot. There’s a bustling yet joyful atmosphere across this upmarket resort, much loved by Parisians in the height of the summer, and you will find a great range of watersports and boat trips as well as sandy beaches, some with restaurants and sun loungers to hire in the summer months.
Cap d’Antibes is also known for its natural beauty and there is no better way to discover this than by following walking trails through the stunning scenery, passing rugged coastline, tiny bays and elegant beaches. The small public beach, Plage des Ondes, is an idyllic spot for sunsets whilst Plage de la Garoupe, with its chic restaurants and beach clubs, was once frequented by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Ernest Hemingway.
Be enchanted by the old quarter of Antibes with its historic ramparts, warren of narrow lanes, inviting restaurants, atmospheric market and Picasso museum and look out for boat trips departing from the glamourous marina.
The glitz of Cannes is also a short drive away, a wonderful place to spend the day whether you’re seeking grand palm-fringed beaches, watersports, high-end restaurants or ferry excursions along the French Riviera and out to the Lérins Islands. The old part of Cannes should also be explored and don’t miss the foodie delights of Marché Forville.
The Côte d'Azur hinterland offers a wealth of opportunities for walking, cycling, tree-top adventure activities, horse-riding and some of the most prestigious golf courses of the region. Picture-perfect villages include Picasso’s beloved Mougins, artistic St-Paul-de-Vence and the picturesque and historic market towns of Grasse and Valbonne.
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.
