A few favorite towns: Cannes, Saint Paul de Vence and St. Tropez
Cannes goes beyond the red carpet, with a stroll along La Croisette, the iconic waterfront promenade, and soak in the views of luxury yachts bobbing in the harbor. For a taste of local life, venture into Le Suquet, the old town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to panoramic vistas of the bay.
Perched atop a hill, Saint Paul de Vence is a
medieval village and living gallery. I first visited was with my sister, while she was in college and I
was preparing for my MBA at USC. We took a trip to the South of France where we fell in love with this
little town.
Wandering through winding alleyways lined with art studios and boutiques is always a
delight. the Fondation Maeght, just outside the village walls, houses an impressive collection of modern
and contemporary art. As the sun sets, enjoy a glass of local rosé at La Colombe d'Or, a restaurant once
frequented by Picasso and Matisse.
St. Tropez is a fishing village turned jet-set destination, striking a perfect balance between luxury and authenticity. Start your day at the bustling Place des Lices market, then cool off at one of the famous beaches like Pampelonne. For a quieter experience, explore the coastal path that winds around the peninsula, offering breathtaking sea views.
The Quest for Perfect Baguettes and Cheese
No trip to the Côte d'Azur is complete without indulging in one of my favorite treats: baguettes and cheese. For the best baguettes, seek out local boulangeries that display the "Baguette de Tradition" sign, indicating they follow strict traditional methods. In Cannes, try Boulangerie Jean-Luc Pelé, known for its artisanal breads.
As for cheese, the region offers an abundance of local varieties. Visit fromageries or local markets to sample Banon, a goat cheese wrapped in chestnut leaves, or Brousse du Rove, a fresh cheese made from goat's milk. In St. Tropez, La Tarte Tropézienne is a must-visit for its eponymous cream-filled brioche, a local delicacy.
The Côte d'Azur is a feast for all senses. From the glitz of Cannes to the artistic soul of St. Paul de Vence and the sun-soaked beaches of St. Tropez, each destination offers its own unique flavor. Pair these experiences with the simple pleasure of a perfectly crusty baguette and a wedge of locally crafted cheese, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable French Riviera adventure.
