In the French Riviera with breathtaking sea-views through the pine trees, Villa Espiritu enjoys a privileged location in one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods of Cap d'Antibes, also within walking distance to a number of wonderful beaches.
Close by, there is a boulangerie, Italian deli and small supermarket within a 10-minute walk and restaurants also within walking distance, all within a kilometre or so.
The glistening Mediterranean is just 200m away – follow the coastal road and you will soon reach a glorious sandy beach in just a 10-minute stroll. You will also find Antibes Sailing Club a little further with a range of watersports whilst the next beach along, with a fantastic promenade, offers paddle-boarding and kayaking as well as some pedal boats.
Continue on to the heart of Antibes’ old town, about a 20 to 30-minute walk away, a charming place with winding lanes, historic buildings and 16th century ramparts alongside a glamourous marina. Visit the covered market to pick up all sorts of delights, then head to the Musée Picasso followed by a coffee or ice-cream in a delightful café. Boat trips depart out to the Lérins Islands or even as far as Saint-Tropez and there are also opportunities to charter your own boat and skipper – a superb way to visit this glorious part of the Côte d'Azur.
Just a short drive away, the chic resort of Juan-Les-Pins has a great reputation for its beachside restaurants, boutiques and bars which come alive in the evening. It also has some wonderful beaches and it is the best area for watersports.
For quieter moments, there are some lovely walking trails along the coast in Cap d'Antibes, especially at the southern tip of the peninsular. If you feel like a change of scene, head inland and follow the beautiful hiking route between Biot and Valbonne, following the Brague river through enchanting woodland.
Of course, there is so much of the French Riviera to see as well, perhaps starting in glamourous Cannes with its glitzy reputation, or maybe heading inland to some of the idyllic hilltop villages and towns such as Mougins, Biot, Valbonne and Grasse. Nice and Monaco are also ideal for a perfect day out and both can be reached by train (as can Cannes).
Golf-lovers also have a great range of courses to choose from across the Côte d'Azur and its hinterland including the prestigious Royal Mougins Golf Resort just 20km away (and others even closer).
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.
