The French Riviera has many destinations, each one more beautiful than the other… On the seaside, in the nature or in the mountains, there is something for everyone!
Nestor & Jeeves has selected 3 destinations to visit near Nice to help you discover our beautiful region.
Saint-Paul de Vence, the city of artists
Between historical monuments and art galleries, Saint-Paul is a village with many works of art that have inspired many artists.
We advise you to take an afternoon to visit this old fortified medieval village with its ramparts. You will discover the Folon chapel, an emblematic place of this village which dates from the 17th century. The museum of local history is also very interesting and attractive, with several wax figures on display. Not to mention the famous Maeght Foundation. An international cultural institution. You will find modern art mixed with contemporary art: the Miro labyrinth, the Chagall mosaics, the Giacometti Court, the Bury fountain and many other artists will be there.
As for the restaurants, there are several gustatory restaurants.
The famous restaurant La Colombe d’or is a privileged place that combines a Provencal decoration with modern art. Several paintings of great painters are displayed in the restaurant, moreover, many celebrities from all over the world have appreciated this place.
You will taste refined French dishes with local products at a correct price. Attention it is necessary to reserve several weeks in advance.
La Petite Chapelle is an atypical restaurant, installed in an old chapel from 1885. It is a brasserie type of cuisine with a very pleasant setting. You can enjoy the terrace and the patio surrounded by greenery.
Accessible by car or by bus from Nice. You will find parking lots at the entrance of the village that you can then discover on foot.
The hilltop village of Eze
This medieval village is to be discovered absolutely. It is one of the most beautiful villages in France with a breathtaking view.
Go through the double fortified gate and enter the village. You can then stroll in the small paved streets full of charm. Many merchants sell local products, the opportunity to bring back a small souvenir of your stroll.
Then, go to the exotic garden of Eze. A place not to be missed. Sculptures, Mediterranean plants and other species from the region are to be discovered. This garden is perched above the village and will offer you an incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea. If you like hiking, not far from the garden there is a path that will take you directly to the sea, it will take about 1 hour to walk.
For lunch, several restaurants are available. For a special occasion or to treat yourself, La Chèvre d’or. A restaurant with 2 stars and a very gourmet menu. But above all, a magical place. On the side of a cliff, the Château de la Chèvre d’or overlooks the sea and has a breathtaking view. You can also go there to have a drink on the terrace during the summer.
The Château d’Eza is also an emblematic restaurant of the village. It offers an incredible panoramic view of the sea and proposes exceptional dishes.
And finally, the Taverne d’antan located in the heart of the village of Eze. An atypical place that offers authentic cuisine with Italian specialties.
The village is only accessible on foot (you can park your car in the parking lot at the entrance of the village). We advise you to bring good shoes because the village is on the side of a cliff and you have to climb a little to have the chance to admire this little jewel of the French Riviera.
Grasse, the land of senses
This city is known all over the world as the perfume capital of the world. Here, the greatest perfumers make floral eaux de toilette with local products. Among the greatest, you will find the famous designer Christian Dior. This great house has chosen the Provençal lands to cultivate its May rose and Jasmine Grandiflorum flowers. These two plants are the composition of multiple perfumes of the house Dior.
A visit to the International Perfumery Museum is a must. You will discover the steps of the creation of a perfume. Children over 7 years old will have the possibility to access an olfactory and playful course composed of games to touch.
Compose your own eau de toilette in the historic perfumery of Grasse, Fragonard. You will be in the company of an expert to realize your olfactory work. An unforgettable sensory experience.
Then after visiting these places, head to the restaurant Lou Fassum. It offers a view on the flowered gardens. You will taste Mediterranean dishes that will delight your taste buds. The price is higher than average. Remember to reserve for lunch.
Grasse is also the starting point to visit the villages of the hinterland like Tourette-sur-Loup, Gourdon, Cabris or Biot.
Nestor & Jeeves offers short term rental apartments only 30 minutes drive from these destinations to discover for the day. Don’t hesitate to discover our other articles on the region to visit the French Riviera!