As far as luxury getaways go, a superyacht charter in the French Riviera is the epitome of glamour. In July, the South of France comes alive with several huge national events, regional celebrations, and local festivities. With Tour de France sweeping the nation and Bastille Day celebrated nationwide, you’ll feel the excitement and party spirit in the air wherever you go.
Take in the historical sights of Eze, Villefranche, and Antibes, and then party all night in the captivating hotspots of Cannes and Saint Tropez. Aboard Motor Yacht Loon, the itinerary is completely bespoke, and we can make as many or as few stops as requested. Read on to discover all the dazzling destinations of the Cote d’Azur.
Menton
The town of Menton and its old-world charm sits on the border of Italy and is considered the first or last stop of the French Cote d’Azur. Menton makes the ideal charter destination with its picturesque port, gorgeous beaches, top culinary scene, and historical architecture. Stroll the lemon-scented streets as you make your way to the Medieval Old Town, where you can take in the sights of the Belle Epoque villas and tropical gardens, Basilique Saint-Michel, and Jean Cocteau Museum.
With its close proximity to Italy, Menton’s fusion of French and Italian cuisine makes it a must-visit for foodies. The town’s restaurants serve a taste of the local blended cuisine, and the two Michelin-starred restaurant, Mirazur, regularly features on the world’s top 50 best restaurant list. Between Menton and Monaco, there are plenty of quiet and peaceful anchor spots where we’ll have plenty of space to set out our infamous toy box so you can enjoy some time in the water.
Eze
Nestled between Nice and Monaco lies the stunning hilltop town of Eze. We’ll anchor in a quiet, secluded bay and tender you right to the footfalls of the village so that you can spend as much time as desired exploring the historic streets. Overlooking the Med, the Medieval town’s labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets boasts plenty of art galleries, artisan stores, boutiques, and cafes. Breathe in the fresh, tranquil air and enjoy the views that extend for miles in the Jardin Exotique. The gardens bloom with tropical plants, citrus trees, and stone sculptures.
The town is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants. One-starred Chateau Eza’s famous outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or glass of fine wine whilst soaking up the magnificent panoramic views of the French Riviera. For an unforgettable gastronomic experience, the two Michelin star La Chèvre d’Or offers a seven-course Riviera-inspired menu where diners can experience the same incredible views the village is known for.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is one of the most exclusive postcodes in France. Its streets are lined with some of the world’s most expensive properties, upmarket boutiques, and chic restaurants. On land, guests can explore the gorgeously manicured gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild or sip cocktails while enjoying the gorgeous sea views at the Four Seasons. There’s also a beautifully scenic 1.5km hiking trail, starting at the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Town Hall and ending at Beaulieu-sur-Mer beach.
The Cap is perfect to explore by stand-up paddleboard, as you’ll get a great view of its world-famous villas and the number of coves and bays scattered along the coastline. With its close proximity to Villefranche, it’s easy to explore and enjoy the town’s beautiful bay on one of our jet skis, eFoils, or Schillerbikes. Alternatively, relax poolside on one of our inflatable loungers on our inflatable netted pool.
Villefranche
One of the most beautiful villages in the Cote dÀzur, the medieval town of Villefranche, is painted in hues of pastels, orange, yellows, and reds. Its winding cobbled streets and twisting staircases are set upon a steep slope leading down to the glittering sea. The waterfront bars, hotels, and cafes have long been historic meeting places for famous artists and authors such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau. The town’s streets feature an array of boutiques, restaurants, and galleries, and the local market is the perfect place to shop for local produce. Atop the hill is the walled 16th-century citadel, home to the town hall and museums.
Nice
As the capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is a hub for sophistication, culture, arts, and architecture. Its old town is charmed by its Italian influences, tiny winding streets, churches, and courtyards. Shop here for vintage wines, antiques, and local delicacies, or spend the morning at the Matisse museum or stroll around Castle Hill and take in the views of the city and the Bay of Angels.
Antibes
Situated between Cannes and Nice, Antibes boasts Europe’s largest port with over 2000 moorings and space to accommodate a number of yachts over 50m. Once home to the artist, Picasso, you can visit the museum which occupies his former home, Chateau Grimaldi. Antibes’ tiny winding, cobbled streets lined with pretty pastel homes, boutiques, and flowers of all colors can feel like a maze, but as you wander, you’ll eventually pop out at the Cours Masséna market, where you’ll find a whole host of local produce to be sampled and tasted.
Keen hikers can hike the captivating cap coastline trail or explore using our sea toys. There are plenty of options for foodies. Michelin star Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit is just a short distance from the port, or take a quick tender ride to the world-famous Eden Rock Hotel. Bar Absinthe, with its cave-like interior and vintage atmosphere, feels like a trip into the past, and here they serve absinthe the traditional way, dripped from a fountain onto a sugar cube.
Cannes
With its old-world luxury charm, designer stores, world-class hotels, gourmet beach bars, and opulent film festival, Cannes is usually a top stop for French Riviera superyacht charters. Walk the Croisette with its golden beaches, glittering sea, and mountain views on one side and chic cafes, luxury hotels, and fashion houses on the other. Get a breathtaking view of the whole town from the 12th-century Chapel of St Anne sitting atop Le Suquet with its collection of intimate bars and restaurants.
The neighboring Lerins Islands make for a peaceful walk, with the island of Saint Honorat acting as a home to monks since the 5th century. Today the Cistercian monks are famous for their wine grown from their own grape varieties and olive oil, both of which can be purchased in the cloisters shop. The larger island, Saint Marguerite, features the remains of the Royal Forte, where once the Man in the Iron Mask was imprisoned. The island is also home to an alley of eucalyptus trees and the world-class restaurant and beach club, La Guerite, to which you can arrive by tender and enjoy an afternoon of sun, great food, music, and dancing.
The Bay of Cannes and nearby waters of the red cliffs of the Esterel’s offer a superb ocean playground to guests who’d like to enjoy the water. Explore the coastline by jetski, practice your wakeboard skills alongside the Croisette, or take the scuba equipment to the underwater museum, located between the two Lerins islands.
Saint Tropez
The iconic town of Saint Tropez embodies the glamour and elegance of the French Riviera. Since the 1960’s the small town has become a favorite summer destination for the world’s most richest and famous faces. With designer boutiques at every corner, chic cafes, exquisite restaurants, and glamourous bars and nightclubs where ever you turn, the town certainly has something for everyone.
During the day, Pampalone Beach is the place to be. Stretching 4.5km, this glorious expanse of white sand beach is famous for its 1950s French film glamour and hot beach clubs that line the water. The most popular beach club for lunch, lounging, and dancing has to be the exclusive Le Club 55, but there are many others to choose from, including Gigi, La Réserve à la Plage, Verde Beach, and Nikki Beach.
In the town of Saint Tropez, there’s no shortage of evening restaurants and hotspots. The three-star Michelin restaurant La Vague d’Or found in the Cheval Blanc Hotel, is a must-visit for those looking for a true gastronomic experience. For those looking to enjoy a show with their dinner, L’Opéra is the place to go, famous for its glamorous decor, quirky art, and unforgettable entertainment. For Asian flavors, dine at the delectable BanH-Hoi, combining the tantalizing flavors of Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan. Visit Salama for traditional Moroccan dishes and La Petit Plage for a seafood menu created by a Michelin-starred chef.
Porquerolles
Porquerolles boast a protected paradise of eucalyptus, olive, fig, and juniper trees, pine woods, pristine white sand beaches, and glittering turquoise waters. This small island is the largest of the three Hyres Island chain. There are no cars, only a handful of hotels, and only 200 people call the island home. The Porquerolles offer the perfect place to relax, with its deserted beaches, secluded coves, tranquil vineyards, and charming village.
Festivals & Events
Tour de France : 1st -23rd July
The annual multi-stage cycling race captivates the hearts and attention of the French all over the country. Although the race doesn’t enter the French Riviera this year (It runs from the Basque country, through Bordeaux, over to the Mont Blanc area, and ends in Paris), you’ll see coverage played in bars and eateries and yellow flags proudly displayed nationwide.
Bastille Day – July 14
This important annual holiday celebrates the storming of the Bastille in 1789, which helped usher in the French Revolution. You’ll see street fairs, parties, general festivities, and an incredible display of fireworks wherever you’re staying on the coast.
Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique : 14th July – 24th August
Each year Cannes hosts the finals of the most prestigious Festival of Pyrotechnic Art in the world. Each year one of the competing countries displays its orchestrated firework displays to crowds of thousands in the Bay of Cannes in the hope of winning the coveted Vestale d’Or!
Nice Jazz Festival : 18th -21st July
Beginning in 1948, the Nice Jazz Festival has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry. With a whole host of artists playing throughout the city and the festival itself, festivalgoers can catch the legendary Tom Jones, Dave Holland, Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, and many more.
Juan Les Pins Jazz Festival : 10th – 21st July
Juan Les Pins hosts a multitude of events and performances organized around Pinède Gould.
Annual Classical Music Festival : 24th July – 5th August
Classical enthusiasts will love Menton’s classical music festival. Seven concerts are held on the square of the Basilica of Saint Michel, and six concerts at the Palais de l’Europe.
Wherever you choose to visit during your French Riviera superyacht charter, you can be sure your time spent aboard Motor Yacht Loon will be unforgettable. Get in touch to learn more about M/Y Loon’s charter offering and start planning your best vacation yet!