THE SEASON AHEAD
For me, spring is always an intoxicating time to visit the Côte d’Azur. Away from the main towns (blissfully relaxed at this time of year), the heady aroma of mimosas and orange blossoms heralds the gradual arrival of warmer days. This fragrance always reminds me of time spent in the French perfume capital of Grasse, which is located in the magnificent hills of the French Riviera.
The hills above the Côte d'Azur showcase stunning views of pine forests and terracotta-roofed villages tumbling down into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Walking these trails during the peak summer months is usually impossible due to the unabating heat, but this is just one of the reasons to consider a visit during late spring and early summer. There are so many other things I love about visiting the French Riviera at this time. Casting off the winter chill with a glass of rosé on a vine-covered terrace, observing how everything grinds to a halt for lunch. Browsing the tempting boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants of St Tropez, untroubled by the peak summer jet setters. Watching sleepy villages come alive in the late afternoon after le pause déjeuner, with less hurried locals enjoying a glass of pastis or a game of pétanque with their friends. It doesn’t get more perfect than this!
Victoria – January 2025
WHERE & WHEN
Where should I stay on the Côte d’Azur?
The best areas for luxury villas on the Côte d’Azur include the exclusive coastal enclaves around St Tropez, the more laidback coastal retreat of Sainte-Maxime, and further east along the French Riviera in the direction of Cannes, Antibes and Nice. All of these places offer easy access to the most glamourous destinations of the Côte d’Azur, its world-class beaches, shopping, and restaurant scene.
For something a little different, you may wish to consider a French Riviera holiday home located inland, in the South of France’s more peaceful arrières-pays. Here you can be within walking distance of picturesque hillside villages such as Grasse and Vence, staying in beautifully converted farmhouses set amidst vineyards and lavender fields.
What is the best time to visit Côte d’Azur for a villa holiday?
The Côte d'Azur shines year-round. The peak summer months of July and August draw the most visitors due to the European school holidays, but we highly recommend visiting outside of this time if you can. Visiting in spring (April and May) is perfect if you wish to be out and about, exploring hillside villages or chic seaside towns without the summer crowds and heat. By June, you can expect long sunny days and a delicious taste of summer on the French Riviera.
We also strongly recommend visiting the Côte d'Azur in the autumn months of September and October. The temperatures are still blissfully warm (often still around 24C / 75F), making this an ideal time for dining al fresco and relaxing by the pool. The sea waters are also at their very best for swimming.