Outstanding natural beauty in the French Riviera

The portion of the French coastline from the Italian border west past Nice and Cannes to Cassis just south of Marseilles has been famous as a tourist destination since the late 1700s. Initially it was a health resort frequented by members of Britain’s upper class. Once the railroads arrived in the 19th century, the region, which includes the sovereign state of Monaco, became a haven for European royalty and aristocrats.

The Riviera acquired a reputation in the arts in the early 1900s, when it was home to the likes of Picasso and Matisse as well as writers like Somerset Maugham and Aldous Huxley. When the Second World War finally ended, the area developed into a tourist centre, although it still maintains its upscale ambiance. Today visitors from all over the world flock to the Cote d’Azur, and many of them are drawn to the natural beauty of the region.

The Mediterranean Coast 

The most obvious natural wonder is the Mediterranean coast itself. Consisting of both sand and shingle beaches, the coast is often sheltered by scenic cliffs. The paths of Sentier Tirepoil around the tip of the Cap d’Antibes and the longer Sentier du Littoral near Saint-Tropez provide thrilling views of the coastal scenery. The waters off the Riviera are a famous yachting area, and visitors with access to a yacht have an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Riviera coast.

Les Salins 

Most of Saint-Tropez’s beaches are crowded and overdeveloped, and many require a fee to enter. One, however, is quiet, peaceful and public. Les Salins at the tip of the peninsula is the favoured beach of local residents, offering golden sand, a beautiful view of the Mediterranean and a location sheltered from the fierce Mistral, the winds that scour so much of the coast. One of the few areas in Saint-Tropez that retain anything of their wild character, Les Salins makes a refreshing break from the high-energy parties of Saint-Tropez itself.

Verdon Gorge 

Europe’s most beautiful river canyon lies between Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane along the Verdon River near the French Riviera. Directly inland from Cannes, the canyon is popular with locals and moneyed visitors alike. Rock climbers and canoeists are drawn to the area, as are fly fishermen and paragliders. Scenic drives follow both the north and south rims of the canyon, and hiking trails for all abilities dip below the rim. Verdon Gorge can be busy during the summer, but is well worth a visit at any time of year.

Massif des Maures 

Between Hyeres and Frejus looms the Massif des Maures, a range of hills who’s exceedingly challenging topography makes some parts inaccessible to even to foot traffic. The winding roads with their succession of views, the GR51 and GR9 ridge-top footpaths and the challenging but rewarding opportunities for cycling make the Massif des Maures a first-class holiday destination in its own right as well as a convenient side trip from the Riviera coast.

Transport to the French coastline and around the local area is regular and efficient so even if you’re not staying on the coast itself, it’s easy to have a day trip out to Nice or Cannes and still experience the beauty of the French Riviera during your trip.

Image by irene.