Villa Lumiere Royale is located less than 2km from the heart of Cannes, around half an hour from Nice Airport. If arriving by train, direct TGV services from Paris to Gare de Cannes take just over five hours.
The villa is within a gated domaine in a prestigious neighbourhood – within a 25-minute walk you can be strolling along La Croisette, Cannes’ famous boulevard, or dipping your toes in the Mediterranean. As well as the glitzy boutiques, bars and high-end restaurants, get to know the more authentic side of Cannes as you soak up the ambience of the vibrant Marché Forville and explore the old fishermen’s quarter, Le Suquet. Boat trips depart the impressive marina for tours along the French Riviera or across to the Lérins Islands.
Heading north-east along the coast, you will soon reach the upmarket seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins (10km), the old citadel in Antibes (11km) and the beautiful Cap d’Antibes where you can follow the footsteps of Picasso, Hemingway and Monet. Picasso also so loved the flower-filled hilltop village of Mougins (7.5km), nowadays known for its gastronomic restaurants and art galleries.
Continue along the glamourous French Riviera towards Nice (33km) and Monaco (55km) passing gorgeous places such as Villefranche-sur-Mer (40km) and the famous perched village of Èze (54km) with its Michelin starred restaurant and incredible views.
In the other direction, the pretty bays and walking trails of Théoule-sur-Mer (15km) are waiting to be explored, backed by the Esterel massif, a paradise for keen hikers. The winding road continues towards Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus where you can experience yet another side of the sophisticated Côte d’Azur (or take the train with the most amazing scenery en route).
Take time to discover the Côte d’Azur hinterland whether visiting Valbonne (13km) on a Friday morning for its historic market or admiring the perfume studios and Rubens paintings of Grasse (21km). If you can find the time, appreciate the charm and beauty of St Paul de Vence (28km), home of the highly regarded Fondation Maeght, and visit Matisse’s Chapelle du Rosaire just outside the equally lovely village of Vence (31km).
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.