The Ultimate Guide to the Côte d’Azur
The Côte d’Azur, or the French Riviera, encompasses the southeastern coastal towns of France from the glitzy Saint-Tropez to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Monaco. Beloved for its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, high-end hotels, and Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s no wonder the global jet-set crowd descends to this region year after year.
Maison Benjamin founder Benjamin Vaschetti, also a France native, has been traveling to and working in the Côte d’Azur for decades, which makes him a definitive expert in what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. He’s also a chef, who has worked in many Michelin-starred kitchens, and can help members snag hard-to-get reservations at the most coveted restaurants. Read on for the ultimate, specially curated guide to the French Riviera.
Saint-Tropez
If you’re ready for an upscale party in total style, Saint-Tropez is the place for you. Pampelonne Beach is the most famous beach in Saint-Tropez, made popular by Brigitte Bardot and other celebrities in the 1960s. It’s notoriously difficult to find a great reservation, but rest assured that Maison Benjamin goes above and beyond to secure any type of reservation.
Stay at…Those in-the-know stay at La Réserve Ramatuelle, a high-end hotel overlooking the Mediterranean. Expect incredible cuisine, a lovely pool, sumptuous suites, and proximity to wineries, hiking, and historical sights. Be sure to dine at the hotel’s two-Michelin-star La Voile Restaurant. La Réserve also has La Réserve à la Plage, a relaxing natural extension of the hotel on Pampelonne beach where you can get lunch and rent a cabana for the day.
Go to…Pampelonne Beach. We recommend Loulou, a Paris-based restaurant with an outpost on the beach. It’s impossibly chic and considers itself a combination of Capri and the Hamptons. Le Club 55 is arguably what started it all in Saint-Tropez; this legendary restaurant lures socialites, celebrities, and the who’s who for its history and character. Live music, impeccable food, and great views await. It’s all about the party at Verde Beach, a stylish restaurant-turned-day-party on the shores of the ocean. Come for the food, and stay for the tunes and never ending flow of rosé. Finally, Tropezina transports you to a garden oasis, filled with lush hanging plants and a nice breezy lunch atmosphere. They also have an incredible caviar menu.
Sip on…Rosé, of course. Domaines Ott’s winery is just 25 miles from Saint-Tropez and the perfect day trip while you’re in the area. Known for its rosé and white wine, it’s the perfect indulgent afternoon.
Don’t forget to try…Tarte Tropézienne, a famous brioche-like cake created in 1955 by a pâtisserie owner in Saint-Tropez.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
This rocky outcrop west of Nice is the second most expensive residential location in the world, known for attracting billionaires from around the world. It’s considered one of the most beautiful places on the Mediterranean coast and known for its rocky promontories and delicious views. Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is also known for its incredible bays, like Anse des Fossés, ideal for anchoring your yacht and spending the day in the crystal-clear blue waters.
Stay at…Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel. With views from Nice to Monaco, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a lively pool club, and a historic landmark hotel, this hotel has it all. Expect six-star service and suites so elegant you’ll never want to leave.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Between Nice and Monaco, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a favorite of Maison Benjamin’s founder for its under-the-radar vibe and surprisingly beautiful town. It might not be as action-packed as Saint-Tropez or Monaco, but the beauty is unparalleled here.
Stay at…La Réserve de Beaulieu. A mainstay since the 1880s, this Belle Époque-style hotel is steeped in history. There are four restaurants; 39 rooms, suites, and villas; a spa; pool overlooking the ocean; and so much more. Walking through these halls is like stepping back in time.
Dine at…Le Restaurant des Rois. This one-Michelin-starred restaurant is guaranteed to make you feel like royalty. Its inventive dishes are like tiny works of art, and it has some of the best Mediterranean cuisine in the South of France. Sit on the terrace for an otherworldly view.
Shop at…Beaulieu-sur-Mer Shops and Markets. Gourmands should be sure to visit the wonderful and charming markets. The town was first built by European aristocracy 120 years ago and its old-world spirit remains. Here, pick up delicious homemade pastas, bread, and fresh fruit and vegetables.
Èze
This sleepy, yet visit-worthy commune is a hilltop medieval village famous for its architecture, views, and history. Not only does the water feel clearer and bluer in this area, but it’s one of the most historic towns along the Côte d’Azur with preserved medieval villages, buildings, and tradition.
Stay at…La Chèvre d’Or. This five-star hotel is like living in a castle, only with modern updates, exquisite food, and even better service. It cascades down a hillside with verdant gardens, vine-lined stone pathways, and never-ending views.
Dine at…While you can’t go wrong with any restaurants in Èze, be sure to visit the two-Michelin-starred La Chèvre d’Or Gourmet Restaurant, helmed by acclaimed chef Arnaud Faye, who has worked in numerous Michelin kitchens across France. He and his team are some of the most talented in the region.
Monte-Carlo, Monaco
Monte-Carlo, located in the Principality of Monaco, offers so much more than F1 racing and casinos, though that is always an alluring component to a trip here. Ultra luxury awaits, from the myriad designer restaurants to Michelin-starred food, and more.
Stay at…Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, located in the heart of Monaco with a Belle Époque-style design and acclaimed restaurant. You’ll also find great jazz here. Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo is another favorite spot among members, with a lively pool, spa, and experiential programming for the entire family. Finally, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo houses a Gustave Eiffel-designed dome that has made this hotel a historic monument in Monte-Carlo, and all of France. It’s situated directly overlooking the sea.
Dine at…Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse at Hôtel de Paris is a three-Michelin-starred experience that cannot be missed. From chef Ducasse’s delectable creations to pastry chef Sandro Micheli’s sweet treats, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a luxury dining experience like this. Also at Hôtel de Paris is The Grill Monaco, offering panoramic sea views with hearty grilled fish and meat dishes.
If you’re staying at Hôtel Hermitage, you don’t have to walk too far for a grand dining experience. Pavyllon, helmed by chef Yannick Alléno isn’t just a restaurant, but a social club and sophisticated hangout. Sit on the terrace to enjoy chef Alléno’s fresh, seasonal cuisine.
Visit…Institut Océanographique, which has a museum dedicated to our oceans to help preserve, clean, and protect our precious seas. Fun for the family or those interested in giving back, it’s an educational way to spend an afternoon.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Historical sites, beautiful coastline, and unique architecture await. It’s spread out along the coast between Menton, France and Monaco and has a fascinating Old Town. It’s also a calmer respite from other destinations.
Stay at…Maybourne Riviera. This hilltop hotel opened in 2021 and has quickly become the go-to hotel for those traveling to the South of France. It has striking modernist architecture which is the opposite of what Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is known for, which makes it a special departure from the main town. Don’t miss its lovely restaurants and infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean that feels like you’re floating in the sky.
Dine at…Mirazur. This lauded three-Michelin-starred restaurant is a bucket-list spot at the foot of a mountain. Guests dine in a 1930s-era rotunda with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the region. Simply put, there is no bad spot in the house to enjoy its globally inspired dishes.
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