Let’s address the obvious from the outset. Marseille — that maligned yet magnificent Mediterranean port — is rarely included on a traditional French Riviera yacht charter itinerary. Most charter yachts cruise as far as Saint-Tropez before turning back toward the polished glamour of Cannes and Monaco.
But what are yacht charter guests missing by not venturing further west toward Marseille? In truth, an extraordinary stretch of coastline that ranks among the most dramatic in the Mediterranean.
Why Include Marseille on a Yacht Charter Itinerary?
A yacht charter to Marseille opens the door to a landscape that feels wilder and more elemental than the classic Riviera hotspots. Here, towering limestone cliffs plunge into impossibly turquoise waters. Narrow inlets carve deep into the coastline, forming fjord-like calanques that rival any Caribbean anchorage for natural beauty.
The region surrounding Marseille offers immense variety within short cruising distances. To the east lies the charming harbour town of Cassis, framed by vineyards and pastel façades. Further along the coast, Bandol is celebrated for both its relaxed marina atmosphere and its renowned rosé wines.
At the heart of the area is Calanques National Park — a spectacular protected coastline of white rock cliffs, hidden coves and crystalline waters. Exploring the Calanques by yacht allows access to secluded anchorages unreachable by road, making it one of the highlights of a Marseille yacht charter.
To the west and south, the appeal continues with the Îles du Frioul and the more distant Golden Islands near Hyères, offering Caribbean-like beaches and protected marine environments ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
A Different Kind of Mediterranean Glamour
Unlike the polished ports of the eastern Riviera, Marseille offers authenticity and scale. It is France’s oldest city, rich in maritime history and multicultural energy. The Old Port (Vieux-Port) buzzes with life, seafood restaurants line the quays, and the basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde watches over the harbour from its hilltop perch.
Including Marseille in a yacht charter itinerary adds depth and distinction. Guests experience a coastline where nature dominates, where vineyards meet the sea, and where ancient villages sit quietly above hidden bays.
For those willing to venture beyond the usual Riviera circuit, Marseille and yacht charter are a compelling combination — offering dramatic scenery, cultural richness and some of the most unforgettable cruising waters in the Mediterranean.
One of the greatest pleasures of a luxury escape to the Côte d’Azur is discovering the best restaurants on the French Riviera while travelling slowly along its sun-drenched coastline. From the Italian border in Menton to the glamour of Saint-Tropez, the region offers an extraordinary concentration of world-class dining experiences set against breathtaking Mediterranean backdrops.
A journey through the best restaurants on the French Riviera is as much about scenery as it is about cuisine. Picture elegant garden terraces perched above the sea, where the scent of jasmine mingles with salt air, and Michelin-starred chefs present dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients. Imagine opulent dining rooms beneath golden vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers, where attentive service and refined wine pairings elevate every course.
The Riviera’s culinary identity is rooted in exceptional produce — freshly caught seafood, fragrant herbs, olive oil, citrus and sun-ripened vegetables — yet interpreted through both traditional Provençal recipes and contemporary gastronomy. Whether dining in a historic seaside institution or a cutting-edge Michelin-starred restaurant, the emphasis remains on precision, creativity and respect for regional flavour.
A luxury yacht charter along the glittering Côte d’Azur enhances this gastronomic adventure. Cruising between ports allows guests to anchor near some of the best restaurants on the French Riviera, stepping ashore for lunch overlooking turquoise bays or indulging in multi-course tasting menus as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
From Menton’s refined elegance to Monaco’s haute cuisine, Cannes’ celebrated dining rooms and the vibrant culinary scene of Saint-Tropez, the Riviera offers a remarkable diversity of experiences within a short stretch of coastline.
For discerning travellers and devoted food lovers alike, exploring the best restaurants on the French Riviera is an essential part of the journey — a celebration of Mediterranean flavours, impeccable technique and unforgettable views.
High season on the French Riviera starts with a spectacular event that puts the region into the international spotlight and into the glare of flashing cameras. The Cannes Film Festival 2017 will take place from 17th-28th May, transforming the coastal town into the heart of the world’s movie industry for 11 days. Despite the billion dollar deals and networking taking place, you don’t have to be a member of the film industry to enjoy the glamour of Cannes Film Festival. There are three things to get right to ensure you’ll enjoy the most luxurious experience possible while in town for the festival.
1. A VIP Helicopter Transfer
Those who have attended the Film Festival before know that there is only one way to arrive in Cannes: by helicopter. A helicopter transfer to Cannes from Nice will reduce travel time from an hour on a traffic-packed road to the length of two movie trailers. The population of Cannes triples to a peak of 210,000 people during the Cannes Film Festival, meaning that land access can be frustratingly slow. Why waste precious time in traffic when you could be enjoying the festival and networking with like-minded people? This year is also the festival’s landmark 70th birthday, so it is set to attract even more attention and visitors.
The helicopter to Cannes leaves from Nice International Airport and flies over the stunning Riviera landscape. It lands at the Croisette Helipad a mere 7 minutes later. Once on the helipad, visitors are only a 10-minute walk from the red carpet of the Palais des Festivals and the heart of the action. Alternatively, a shuttle service is available to take festival participants to the hotel, or drop-off point, of their choice. A Cannes helicopter flight is a VIP experience that shouldn’t be missed and it’s undoubtedly the most convenient and stress-free way to arrive in town.
2. A Luxury Hotel
While attending the Cannes Film Festival, it’s best to stay somewhere close to the screenings, awards, parties and press events. The Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes is situated in an enviable position on La Croisette, across the road from the Palais des Festivals. Not only does it provide instant access to the Cannes Film Festival, but the 5-star hotel is a two-minute walk from the beach and 1 km from the Musée de la Castre in the historic Old Town. Built in 1926, the Belle Epoque palace has an abundance of character and offers exceptional Mediterranean views.
Courtesy Majestic Barrière
The hotel’s 350 guest rooms are decorated with understated glamour and sophisticated designs. They are furnished with work desks, sitting areas, minibars and designer bathrooms. There are also two penthouse suites with butler service. When you want a break from films and meetings, go and lounge at the outdoor pool or enjoy a cocktail on the private jetty and beach. For those moments of utter relaxation and de-stressing, the cutting-edge Spa can attend to your aching joints and over-burdened mind.
3. Top Restaurant
Cannes has some fantastic restaurants from which to choose, but the 2-Michelin-starred La Palme d’Or is one of France’s finest. It is located in the exclusive Martinez Hotel on La Croisette. It benefits from a magical setting with a large terrace that overlooks the Mediterranean – the very sea which influences its gourmet flavours. The restaurant attracts a high-profile clientele who enjoy the innovative and delicious food that Chef Christian Sinicropi prepares in a chic art deco-inspired interior. Large windows overlook the Croisette and the hotel’s pool deck.
Popular dishes include Dublin Bay prawns with beetroot, sweetbreads with a duck foie gras stuffing and Mediterranean bass with green pea ravioli. The delicate and refined taste of the food blends perfectly with the surroundings and makes any meal a special occasion. The impeccable service at La Palme D’Or will ensure you have the ultimate festival experience while in Cannes.
In a Mediterranean long defined by glamorous excess — the paparazzi-lined promenades of the Côte d’Azur, the theatrical cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the party pulse of Ibiza — Corsica offers something rarer: silence, scale and a sense of discovery. For seasoned travellers who believe they have seen it all, a luxury yacht charter in Corsica feels less like another destination and more like stumbling upon a secret that somehow escaped the modern tourism machine.
Rugged yet elegant, remote yet culturally rich, Corsica stands apart from its famous neighbours. It is an island where granite mountains plunge dramatically into luminous turquoise seas, where medieval citadels crown limestone cliffs, and where villages in the interior still move to rhythms unchanged for generations. Arriving by yacht heightens this sense of arrival into another world — one defined not by spectacle but by authenticity.
For those seeking privacy, natural grandeur and understated sophistication, a luxury yacht charter in Corsica is not simply a holiday. It is a return to the Mediterranean as it once was.
An Island Between Worlds
Geographically, Corsica occupies a strategic position in the western Mediterranean, forming a triangle between southeastern France, northwestern Italy and northern Sardinia. Politically French yet culturally distinct, the island blends influences from both sides of the Tyrrhenian Sea while fiercely maintaining its own identity.
Napoleon Bonaparte was born here, but the island feels only loosely tethered to mainland France. Italianate architecture dominates many coastal towns, while the Corsican language — closely related to Tuscan dialects — remains widely spoken, particularly inland. Traditions are guarded with pride, and a strong sense of independence permeates daily life.
This duality makes a luxury yacht charter in Corsica uniquely appealing. Guests experience French culinary finesse alongside Italian warmth, Alpine-scale mountains alongside Caribbean-clear waters. The result is a cruising ground of extraordinary diversity compressed into a relatively compact geography.
Approaching Corsica by Sea
To understand Corsica’s allure, one must approach it from the water. Commercial flights deliver visitors efficiently but strip away the drama of arrival. By contrast, gliding toward the island aboard a superyacht reveals a coastline of staggering scale and variety.
Towering granite cliffs rise abruptly from the sea, weathered into fantastical shapes by wind and time. Between them lie hidden coves where the water shifts through shades of sapphire, teal and pale aquamarine. Long arcs of white sand appear suddenly, framed by umbrella pines leaning toward the shore as if shaped by centuries of mistral winds.
Crucially, much of this coastline remains free from overdevelopment. There are no endless rows of high-rise hotels, no neon-lit resort complexes. Instead, ancient Genoese watchtowers punctuate headlands, silent reminders of centuries of maritime conflict. Fishing villages cluster around natural harbours. Entire stretches of coast feel primordial.
This sense of untouched grandeur is precisely what makes a luxury yacht charter in Corsica so compelling. The yacht becomes not just transport but sanctuary — a private vantage point from which to explore landscapes that would otherwise be difficult, if not impossible, to access.
The West Coast: Raw Drama and UNESCO-Protected Wilderness
Corsica’s western coastline is arguably the most spectacular in the Mediterranean. Here, volcanic geology has sculpted a terrain of sheer cliffs, jagged pinnacles and deeply indented bays.
Scandola Nature Reserve
Accessible only by sea, the Scandola Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most pristine marine ecosystems. Rust-red volcanic rock formations plunge vertically into water of astonishing clarity. Sea caves perforate the cliffs, while osprey nests cling improbably to ledges high above.
For guests on a luxury yacht charter in Corsica, Scandola offers extraordinary opportunities for snorkelling, paddleboarding and wildlife observation. With strict protections limiting land access, arriving by private yacht ensures both exclusivity and minimal environmental impact.
Calanques de Piana
Further south, the Calanques de Piana present a surreal landscape of crimson granite spires rising directly from the sea. At sunrise and sunset, the rock glows as if lit from within, casting reflections that transform the water into molten copper.
Anchoring here for an early swim or a twilight cocktail is an experience that rivals anything along the Amalfi Coast — yet without the flotillas of tour boats.
The South: Bonifacio and the Gateway to Sardinia
If one destination defines a luxury yacht charter in Corsica, it is Bonifacio. Approaching from the south, the town appears almost mythical: a medieval citadel perched precariously atop chalk-white limestone cliffs, buildings seemingly stacked one upon another at the edge of a sheer drop.
The harbour itself is a narrow inlet resembling a fjord, slicing deep into the rock. Entering it by yacht feels theatrical — cliffs rising on both sides before opening into a sheltered marina lined with cafés, boutiques and restaurants.
Above, the old town rewards exploration with labyrinthine streets, ancient staircases carved into the cliff and panoramic views across the Strait of Bonifacio toward Sardinia. On clear days, the Italian island feels tantalisingly close — a reminder that dual-destination itineraries are easily achievable.
The surrounding coastline is equally enchanting. Hidden grottos, pale sand beaches and turquoise lagoons provide ideal anchorages for swimming and water sports. The nearby Lavezzi Islands, an archipelago of smooth granite boulders and shallow crystalline water, are a favourite stop for superyachts cruising between Corsica and Sardinia.
The East Coast: Long Beaches and Laid-Back Elegance
Corsica’s eastern shoreline offers a gentler counterpoint to the drama of the west. Here, mountains recede slightly, allowing for expansive sandy beaches that stretch for kilometres.
Porto-Vecchio, once a quiet salt-trading port, has evolved into one of the island’s most sophisticated resort towns. Its marina welcomes luxury yachts, while the historic old town above provides a charming setting of stone streets, artisan boutiques and lively piazzas.
Nearby beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia rival those of the Caribbean in both colour and softness of sand. Anchoring offshore allows guests to enjoy these iconic locations in privacy, retreating to the yacht as day-trippers depart.
Further north, the lagoon-like Étang de Diane and Étang d’Urbino offer unique ecological landscapes, rich in birdlife and oyster farms — a reminder that Corsica’s appeal extends beyond scenery into gastronomy and tradition.
Calvi and the Balagne: Corsica’s Cultural Riviera
On the northwest coast, Calvi presents perhaps the island’s closest approximation to Riviera glamour — albeit on a far more restrained scale. A vast crescent of beach curves beneath a formidable citadel, while the marina hosts an array of sailing yachts and superyachts during the summer season.
The surrounding Balagne region, known as the “Garden of Corsica,” produces olive oil, wine and citrus fruits. Hilltop villages such as Sant’Antonino and Pigna offer artisan workshops, music festivals and sweeping views across the sea.
For charter guests, this region provides a perfect balance: cultural excursions ashore combined with idyllic anchorages just minutes away.
Inland Corsica: Mountains, Villages and Timeless Traditions
While the coastline dazzles, Corsica’s interior reveals an entirely different character — one that deepens the experience of a luxury yacht charter in Corsica beyond sun and sea.
Mountains dominate the island’s spine, with peaks exceeding 2,700 metres. Snow lingers here well into spring, feeding rivers that carve dramatic valleys on their way to the coast. From the deck of a yacht, these mountains create a constantly shifting backdrop, reminding guests that Corsica is as much Alpine as Mediterranean.
Private excursions inland can include guided hikes through fragrant maquis scrubland, visits to prehistoric sites and tastings at family-run vineyards producing indigenous varietals such as Niellucciu and Vermentinu.
Life in these villages remains deeply traditional. Shepherds move flocks across high pastures. Smokehouses cure artisanal charcuterie. Small roadside stalls sell chestnut flour, honey and cheeses made from sheep or goat milk. The pace is unhurried, the hospitality genuine.
A Distinctive Culinary Identity
Corsican cuisine reflects its terrain: robust, pastoral and intensely flavourful. Chestnuts — once a staple crop — appear in everything from breads to desserts. Wild boar features prominently in stews and charcuterie. Cheeses such as brocciu offer a delicate freshness reminiscent of ricotta yet uniquely local.
Seafood, of course, plays a central role along the coast. Grilled fish, langoustines and octopus salads showcase the quality of the surrounding waters.
A luxury yacht charter in Corsica elevates these culinary traditions through flexibility and access. Guests may dine at rustic beachside establishments reachable only by tender, or enjoy Michelin-level cuisine prepared onboard by a private chef sourcing ingredients directly from local markets.
Corsican wines, once overshadowed by mainland French regions, have gained increasing recognition for their character and quality. Crisp whites pair beautifully with seafood, while robust reds complement the island’s hearty meats.
Privacy, Scale and the Absence of Pretence
What ultimately distinguishes a luxury yacht charter in Corsica from more famous Mediterranean itineraries is the atmosphere. There is glamour here, certainly — sleek yachts in marinas, elegant beach clubs, sophisticated restaurants — but it is understated rather than ostentatious.
Celebrities visit, yet paparazzi are rare. Beach parties occur, yet they seldom overwhelm the landscape. One can spend days cruising without encountering crowds, moving from one pristine anchorage to another.
For ultra-high-net-worth travellers accustomed to the intensity of Monaco or Saint-Tropez, Corsica offers relief without sacrificing luxury. It feels exclusive not because it markets itself as such, but because geography and restraint have preserved its character.
Ideal Cruising Conditions
From a practical standpoint, Corsica is exceptionally well suited to yacht charters. Distances between major highlights are manageable, allowing for relaxed itineraries without long overnight passages. Numerous protected anchorages provide shelter in varying weather conditions.
The island’s proximity to northern Sardinia expands possibilities further. Many charters combine the two destinations, pairing Corsica’s wild grandeur with the polished glamour of Costa Smeralda.
Summer brings warm temperatures, calm seas and long daylight hours, though late spring and early autumn are increasingly popular for those seeking even greater tranquillity.
The New Mediterranean Classic
As travellers become more discerning — prioritising authenticity, sustainability and meaningful experiences over conspicuous display — Corsica’s profile continues to rise. Yet it remains blissfully under the radar compared to other Mediterranean icons.
A luxury yacht charter in Corsica encapsulates this shift. It delivers spectacular scenery without crowds, cultural depth without clichés and luxury without excess. It is equally suited to families seeking adventure, couples desiring seclusion or groups of friends pursuing refined exploration.
Above all, it offers something increasingly difficult to find: the sensation of discovery.
An Island That Stays With You
Corsica does not overwhelm with obvious glamour. Instead, it reveals itself gradually — in the scent of wild herbs carried on a warm breeze, in the echo of church bells across a mountain valley, in the surreal colour of water over pale sand, in the sight of a medieval town balanced impossibly above the sea.
To explore it by yacht is to experience the island on its own terms, moving at a pace dictated by nature rather than schedules. Each anchorage feels like a private world; each sunrise promises a new landscape just beyond the horizon.
For those willing to venture beyond the Mediterranean’s well-trodden circuit, a luxury yacht charter in Corsica offers not simply an alternative, but a revelation — a reminder that true luxury lies not in being seen, but in seeing something extraordinary that everyone else has overlooked.
A French Riviera yacht charter reveals the glittering coastline of southern France, with its secluded anchorages, turquoise waters, and iconic ports such as Antibes and Cannes — yet no journey along the Côte d’Azur is truly complete without venturing inland to discover the flower-filled hill villages that define Provence. Among these, Valbonne stands out as one of the most charming, authentic, and easily accessible escapes from the Mediterranean shore, offering visitors a refined glimpse of traditional village life in France away from the glamour of the coast.
Just a short drive from the sea, Valbonne, France provides the perfect complement to life aboard a luxury yacht. After mornings spent cruising sunlit bays and afternoons anchored off sandy beaches, arriving in Valbonne feels like stepping into another era — one shaped by cobbled lanes, honey-coloured stone houses, shuttered windows, and the gentle cadence of Provençal living. The contrast is striking yet harmonious, revealing another dimension of the French Riviera that is quieter, more intimate, and deeply rooted in history.
Founded in the early 16th century around a former abbey, Valbonne is unusual among medieval towns in France for its elegant grid layout, designed with remarkable foresight during the Renaissance period. The historic centre radiates from a picturesque central square shaded by plane trees, where fountains murmur softly and locals gather for leisurely games of pétanque beneath dappled sunlight. Cafés spill onto the square, creating a relaxed atmosphere that balances historic charm with understated Riviera sophistication.
Exploring Valbonne, France is a sensory pleasure. Boutiques, artisan workshops, and galleries line the narrow streets, showcasing curated fashion, handmade jewellery, ceramics, and regional crafts that reflect the creative spirit of Provence. Stylish yet unpretentious restaurants offer seasonal menus rooted in local produce, while long lunches stretch into languid afternoons accompanied by chilled rosé from nearby vineyards. Despite its popularity, Valbonne has retained a rare authenticity — it feels like a living village rather than a polished attraction, where shopkeepers know their customers and conversations flow easily across café terraces.
For travellers enjoying a luxury yacht charter in southern France, Valbonne offers a rich cultural counterpoint to the coastal scene. Close enough to reach comfortably from major ports yet far enough inland to feel peaceful and unhurried, the village invites visitors to slow down and absorb the rhythms of everyday Provençal life. Weekly markets transform the square into a tapestry of colour and fragrance, with stalls overflowing with fresh herbs, olives, lavender, cheeses, and artisan breads — a quintessential French experience that contrasts beautifully with the polished marinas of the Riviera.
Architectural details reveal centuries of history: ancient stone archways, wrought-iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and quiet side streets that reward aimless wandering. Beyond the centre, the surrounding countryside of Valbonne, France unfolds into gentle hills dotted with olive groves, pine forests, and vineyards, offering scenic drives and walking trails that showcase the natural beauty of inland Provence. The village’s location also makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby historic towns, perfume capital Grasse, and the cultural heritage of the Alpes-Maritimes region.
Ultimately, Valbonne encapsulates the dual identity of the French Riviera — sophistication paired with tradition, elegance balanced by simplicity, glamour complemented by authenticity. Combining a French Riviera yacht charter with a visit to Valbonne, France allows travellers to experience both the dazzling spectacle of the Mediterranean and the timeless soul of inland Provence. It is this seamless blend of sea and countryside, luxury and heritage, that defines the enduring allure of the Côte d’Azur and makes Valbonne one of the most rewarding inland destinations in southern France.
It is impossible to overstate the influence that the light and landscapes of the French Riviera had on some of the world’s greatest artists. From shimmering seascapes to pastel façades and the hazy outline of the Maritime Alps, the Côte d’Azur offered a palette unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Visionaries such as Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Paul Signac and Marc Chagall fell under the spell of this mythic Mediterranean light. They were drawn by the way it danced across terracotta rooftops, illuminated turquoise bays and softened mountain silhouettes into dusky blues.
Many artists did not merely visit — they stayed. The French Riviera became a sanctuary where creativity flourished. Here, they found renewed energy and produced some of their most important Mediterranean-inspired masterpieces, shaped by the region’s colour, warmth and atmosphere.
A luxury yacht charter in the south of France offers a unique way to explore the artistic heritage of the Riviera. Cruising along the coastline allows you to trace the footsteps of the masters — from the dreamy coves of Cap d’Antibes to the flower-filled hill village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and onward to the pastel harbour of Saint-Tropez.
Along the way, you can step ashore to visit celebrated museums and former artist residences, dine in restaurants adorned with their works, and admire the very views that inspired their canvases. The Riviera becomes not just a destination, but a living gallery — where sea, sky and stone still reflect the same luminous beauty that once captivated the world’s most celebrated artists.
To explore artists and the French Riviera is to discover a landscape that continues to inspire — a place where creativity, culture and Mediterranean elegance meet in perfect harmony.
To truly understand a destination, you must experience its food — and nowhere is this more evident than on the French Riviera. The cuisine of the Côte d’Azur tells the story of a region transformed: from a quiet 19th-century coastline of fishing villages and sheep farms to one of the world’s most glamorous culinary hotspots, home to Michelin-starred restaurants and rustic Provençal kitchens nestled among vineyards.
The food of the French Riviera reflects its layered cultural history. Humble, rustic dishes such as socca — the beloved chickpea pancake of Nice — and fishermen’s bouillabaisse evoke the region’s maritime roots. These traditional recipes were born from necessity, using simple, local ingredients to create deeply satisfying meals.
As the Riviera evolved into a jet-set playground, its gastronomy expanded alongside it. Today, elegant fine-dining establishments sit comfortably beside countryside auberges. One iconic example is the Tarte Tropézienne, a cream-filled brioche cake that rose to fame in the 1950s and became synonymous with Saint-Tropez glamour.
Above all, food on the French Riviera is about celebrating local produce. Sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, olive oil, fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables form the backbone of Southern French cuisine. The magic lies in simplicity — quality ingredients prepared with care, transforming what might seem ordinary into something unexpectedly extraordinary.
From seaside bistros overlooking the Mediterranean to Michelin-starred dining rooms in Monaco and Cannes, the French Riviera offers a culinary journey that mirrors its landscape: vibrant, sun-kissed and effortlessly refined. To taste the Riviera is to taste its history — a delicious blend of tradition, innovation and Mediterranean soul.
Once a quiet fishing village, Saint-Tropez was catapulted onto the world stage in the 1950s, evolving into the ultimate playground of the international jet set. Today, it remains one of the most sought-after destinations for a yacht charter in St Tropez, where superyachts line the harbour and Mediterranean sophistication defines the summer season.
From Brigitte Bardot’s era to modern-day celebrities and entrepreneurs, St Tropez has maintained its position as the beating heart of Riviera glamour. Yet beyond the champagne-fuelled beach clubs and high-profile parties lies a town rich in Provençal character and timeless charm.
Why Choose a Yacht Charter in St Tropez?
A yacht charter in St Tropez offers the perfect blend of glamour, scenery and lifestyle. Positioned on the glittering Côte d’Azur, the town provides access to:
Michelin-starred dining and waterfront restaurants
Designer boutiques and artisan markets
Vibrant nightlife and elegant old-town charm
During peak summer months, St Tropez pulses with energy. The harbour becomes a showcase of some of the world’s most impressive yachts, and the social calendar is packed with exclusive events. In contrast, the off-season reveals a quieter, more refined side — cobbled streets, pastel façades and a relaxed Provençal rhythm.
The beauty of a St Tropez yacht charter lies in flexibility — combining glamorous port stops with peaceful anchorages in a single itinerary.
Dining & Beach Clubs
St Tropez is synonymous with exceptional dining. From elegant Michelin-starred establishments to legendary beach clubs along Pampelonne, options range from relaxed barefoot lunches to refined gourmet experiences. Many venues are easily accessible directly from your yacht tender, making reservations part of the seamless charter experience.
Shopping & Lifestyle
Luxury shopping in St Tropez rivals larger Riviera cities. International fashion houses sit alongside independent designers and curated concept stores. The old town’s morning market offers artisan goods, local produce and authentic Provençal finds.
Practical Advice for Booking a Yacht Charter in St Tropez
Book early: Summer demand is extremely high, particularly July and August.
Consider shoulder season: May, June and September offer superb weather with fewer crowds.
Choose the right yacht: From sleek motor yachts to spacious superyachts, select a vessel that matches your group size and desired experience.
Work with experienced brokers: Local knowledge ensures prime anchorages, dining reservations and seamless logistics.
The Ultimate Riviera Experience
A yacht charter in St Tropez captures everything that makes the French Riviera legendary — sunshine, style, Mediterranean beauty and effortless glamour. Whether you are seeking a high-energy summer escape or a refined coastal retreat, Saint-Tropez delivers an experience that is both iconic and unforgettable.
Immerse yourself in our Luxury Guide to Yacht Charter in St Tropez for insider recommendations on dining, shopping and expert tips to plan your perfect French Riviera yacht charter.
Often referred to as “The Pearl of France”, Menton occupies a spectacular position on the final curve of coastline before France gives way to Italy. Bathed in sunlight and framed by mountains that tumble toward the Mediterranean, Menton has long captivated royalty, artists and writers drawn to its luminous light and fragrant lemon groves.
Among its most devoted admirers was Queen Victoria, who visited frequently during the Riviera’s golden age. Winston Churchill painted its colourful seafront, while literary figures such as Robert Louis Stevenson and Katherine Mansfieldcame to convalesce in the town’s mild, health-giving climate.
Menton’s artistic legacy continued into the 20th century. Jean Cocteau left an indelible mark with his celebrated frescoes, now a cultural highlight of the town. Even cinema found inspiration here, when Sean Connery filmed scenes of Never Say Never Again in the old town’s narrow streets.
Beyond its cultural pedigree, Menton enchants with its architecture and gardens. English nobles once established exotic botanical gardens around Italianate villas shaded by palm trees, taking advantage of the town’s unique microclimate — one of the warmest on the French Riviera. According to local legend, Eve planted the first lemon tree here after leaving the Garden of Eden, and today Menton remains famed for its citrus heritage, celebrated each year in its vibrant lemon festival.
With pastel façades cascading down to the sea, baroque churches rising above terracotta rooftops and the Italian border just moments away, Menton offers a Riviera experience that feels both refined and authentic. Less frenetic than its glamorous neighbours yet equally beautiful, Menton combines history, artistry and Mediterranean charm in a setting that continues to inspire all who visit.
So why is it that glorious Menton — framed by dramatic mountains and cascading toward the deep blue Mediterranean in a cluster of pastel façades and elegant bell towers — is so often left off the typical French Riviera yacht charter itinerary?
Tucked away on the Italian border, Menton feels worlds apart from the high-octane glamour of Monaco and the red-carpet energy of Cannes. Yet this is precisely its charm. For travellers seeking authenticity, beauty and heritage, Menton offers a rare and refined alternative — a destination where history and tranquillity coexist in perfect harmony.
Approaching Menton by sea reveals one of the Riviera’s most picturesque skylines. The old town rises steeply from the harbour in warm hues of ochre, peach and terracotta, crowned by the baroque Basilique Saint-Michel. Behind it, the mountains form a dramatic natural amphitheatre, sheltering the town and creating its famously mild microclimate.
For yacht charter guests looking to combine medieval character with Belle Époque elegance, Menton is paradise found. Cobbled lanes wind past shaded squares and historic churches, while botanical gardens and citrus groves reflect centuries of horticultural passion. The town’s slower rhythm offers a welcome contrast to busier ports — long lunches on sun-drenched terraces, quiet strolls through the old quarter, and panoramic views stretching toward Italy.
Including Menton on a French Riviera yacht charter itinerary adds depth and distinction. It is a place where the medieval and gilded ages merge seamlessly, where architecture remains beautifully preserved, and where the Riviera reveals its softer, more poetic side.
For those willing to venture just beyond the usual hotspots, Menton rewards with elegance, authenticity and an enduring sense of Mediterranean charm.
If skiing in the Alps and sunbathing on a Riviera beach on the same day seems like a pipedream, read on. There aren’t many places in Europe where people can ski to their heart’s content and then be on the beach in their swimsuits a couple of hours after having a hot chocolate in Val Thorens. A quick and convenient helicopter transfer can transport you to the highest mountains and back down to the Cote d’Azur for a day to remember. It’s worth taking a luxury helicopter flight for the views of snow-capped peaks and dappled azure waters alone. We have selected three mountain/beach flight combinations that are easy to access and varied.
Tignes and Cannes
Tignes is always one of the last resorts to close its ski lifts because of its high altitude. Its 1,550m-3,450m slopes are heavy with snow, which makes it one of the most reliable places for late-season skiing. It’s ideally located in the famous Espace Killy ski circuit, which offers easy access to Val d’Isere. It also benefits from the presence of the Grande Motte glacier, which is open until 6th May this year.
A helicopter from Cannes to Tignes takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes. Enjoy white groomed pistes and white sandy beaches within one day. Sunbathing on Cannes glamorous beaches will take you a world away from the high-adrenaline slopes of Tignes and Val d’Isere. Should you tire of catching the spring sun on the private beaches on La Croisette, you can try one of the many chic restaurants along the prestigious stretch of coast. Alternatively visit the small public beach Plage de Casino nearby the Palais des Festivals, which is sheltered and good for swimming if the temperature is right. If you are a fashionista, don’t forget to take in the Cannes Shopping Festival at the Palais between 14th and 17th April 2017.
Chamonix and Monaco
Chamonix offers the highest skiing in the French Alps with the Aiguille du Midi lift at 3,842 m. Skiing is available throughout spring and closes in early May. Located at the foot of the legendary Mont Blanc, Chamonix’s altitude ensures great skiing and snow coverage. The resort has always attracted adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies with its advanced pistes such as the famous Vallée Blanche, but also has plenty of options for more amateur skiers. Chamonix also has some good restaurants and an abundance of snow activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding.
After fun in the mountain sunshine, catch some rays on Monaco’s Larvotto Beach. This soft pebble man-made beach has a unique city setting, beautiful clear water for swimming and plenty of eateries around to satisfy even the pickiest of foodies. The good thing about this beach is how convenient it is for Monaco’s attractions such as the casino and the beautiful gardens. It’s also close to five-star restaurants and designer boutiques.
If you are in Monaco in April don’t miss the chance to ski in the morning and watch the Rolex Tennis Masters at Monte-Carlo Country Club in the afternoon. The event brings the finest athletic talent to the city-state from 15th to 23rd April. The championship takes place in the stunning setting of the Monte-Carlo Country Club, which directly overlooks the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. People who prefer cars to sports, should pair a Chamonix helicopter ski trip with a visit to Top Marques, a prestigious luxury goods and supercar show which takes place on 20th-23rd April at the famous Grimaldi Forum. Taking a helicopter from Monaco to Tignes, Chamonix or Val Thorens is also an option if you’d prefer ski in the afternoon or enjoy the après ski scene.
Val Thorens and Nice
Val Thorens is the highest purpose-built ski resort in Europe and it has enviable snow conditions. Located in the enormous Trois Vallees ski area, it is home to more than 140km of pistes above 3,000m, and since most of them are north-facing, skiing goes on until late in the season. The resort is car-free, making a luxury helicopter transfer the ultimate ski pass with hundreds of mountain peaks in sight. However, if you’re hoping for a ski pass a little closer to earth, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find special deals are usually available on lift tickets from mid-April. The season runs through to May and re-opens for glacier skiing in the summer. The cutting-edge ski facilities and high-tech ski lifts complement the informal and laid-back feel of the resort.
When you’re ready to enjoy your apres-ski on the beach, fly to Nice where the water is clear and inviting and the scenery is beautiful. Neptune Beach is a wonderful central private beach option that is affiliated with the famous Negresco Hotel off the Promenade de Anglais. It’s also family-friendly and its beach restaurant has a children’s play area. In the unlikely event that the weather takes a turn for the worst, the indoor lounge area offers various games to pass the time. Plage Publique du Voilier is located nearby on the Blue Beach and is close to attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts. Nice’s beaches stretch along the coast for 10 kilometres so you’ll have your pick of private or public ones. They are composed of large pebbles called ‘galets’ that make the water a uniquely vibrant blue.
With these combinations of Riviera helicopter flights you are never far from a beach or mountain. So enjoy the best of both worlds!
Sunshine, celebrity glamour and a superyacht in St Tropez — few combinations capture the spirit of the French Riviera so perfectly. The iconic port of Saint-Tropez has long been synonymous with luxury living, where gleaming yachts line the harbour and the Mediterranean sparkles beneath endless blue skies.
For many, however, the idea of a full week-long superyacht charter can feel out of reach. The good news? You don’t need an extended itinerary to experience the magic. A weekend superyacht charter in St Tropez offers all the glamour and indulgence of the Côte d’Azur — perfectly tailored to a shorter escape.
St Tropez delivers one of the most captivating stretches of coastline on the Riviera. Here, rolling Mediterranean landscapes meet soft sandy beaches, while picturesque Provençal villages sit just inland from the sea. Pampelonne Beach invites relaxed daytime lounging, chic beach clubs and crystal-clear swimming spots, all easily accessible from your superyacht.
Aboard your superyacht in St Tropez, days begin with breakfast on deck and uninterrupted sea views. Anchor off secluded coves for a swim, cruise along the coastline past dramatic cliffs and pine-fringed bays, then step ashore to explore glamorous boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants. As evening falls, St Tropez transforms — world-famous beach clubs give way to vibrant nightlife and exclusive venues frequented by celebrities and international tastemakers.
The beauty of a weekend superyacht charter in St Tropez lies in its efficiency: in just a few days, you can experience the very best of the French Riviera lifestyle. Relaxation, fine dining, beach culture, designer shopping and high-energy nightlife are all within effortless reach.
If time is limited but your desire for Riviera luxury is not, a superyacht in St Tropez provides the perfect solution — delivering maximum glamour in a perfectly curated Mediterranean weekend.
A French Riviera yacht charter is about more than cruising between glamorous ports — it’s about experiencing the very best the Côte d’Azur lifestyle has to offer. From sun-drenched afternoons anchored off Pampelonne Beach to elegant lunches overlooking the Mediterranean, beach clubs form an essential part of any Riviera itinerary.
Scattered along the coastline from Monaco to Saint-Tropez, these iconic venues combine exceptional dining, attentive service and vibrant atmosphere in unforgettable waterfront settings. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed barefoot lunch, a chic champagne-soaked afternoon or a high-energy party that continues past sunset, the best beach clubs on the French Riviera deliver style in abundance.
Here is our curated selection of the finest beach clubs to visit during your French Riviera yacht charter — where great food, beautiful views and Riviera glamour come together seamlessly.
Plage La Garoupe – Cap d’Antibes
The best beach clubs have a seductive magic about them, an allure that goes far past the sophisticated decor, the handsome charm of the waiters, or even the softness of the sand where white-cloth tables sit before the sparkling sea. At the top beach clubs—the ones that the A-list compete to get into in the long, languorous days of a Mediterranean Summer — there’s a lingering sense of summers past, of all the famous people who have mingled, dined and danced here, passing happy days diving off pontoons and basking in the sun.
So join us as we float from the towering cliffs of Monaco down to the Gulf of Saint Tropez, dropping anchor at the most glorious beach clubs along the French Riviera.
Monaco
Monte-Carlo Beach Club
This prestigious beach club at Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel offers the most impressive selection of options of any Monaco beach club, with a private beach with watersports and luxury tents; an Olympic sized saltwater swimming pool with diving tower, and a Michelin star restaurant on a deck overlooking the glittering sea. Laze back in your cool striped cabana with a hookah pipe, go parasailing high above the Mediterranean, or dine on fresh deliciousness at Elsa, the first all-organic restaurant to be lauded by the Michelin inspectors. Naturally, there’s also a spa onsite to take your pampering beach club experience to the next level.
The global Nikki Beach franchise has extended its reach with a pop-up ‘beach’ club on top of the Fairmont Hotel, which will return for another bout of party madness in April 2017. All the action at Nikki Beach Monaco takes place around the pool, which is surrounded by luxurious white deckchairs, from which you can indulge in some quality people-watching or gaze out at the endless Mediterranean views. With chilled DJ beats ramping up as the day wears on, Nikki Beach Monaco feels very much like a daytime nightclub, so it attracts a young crowd bent on having a good time.
If the idea of loud DJ music and enthusiastic young things spraying Champagne makes you want to retreat with haste to a place of cool, calm exclusivity, there can be no better oasis than La Note Bleue in Monaco. This sophisticated beach club at Monaco’s Larvotto Beach offers a garden-like setting by the sea, with decadent daybeds with wispy curtains, soft white deckchairs by the water, and elegant dining tables shaded by graceful sweeps of canvas. At night, drink and dine by soft lantern-light as notable jazz musicians play to an appreciative crowd.
For sheer celebrity history and Mediterranean charm, it would be hard to go past Paloma Beach, an iconic beach club nestled on a small cove in exclusive Cap Ferrat. Family-run since 1948 and named after Picasso’s daughter, the beach club at Paloma Beach offers heart-soaring views of cliffs and blue-green sea, with opulent villas climbing the steep slopes behind. Paloma Beach isn’t shiny and decadent— in fact it’s slightly rustic compared to its Monaco counterparts, with the same “shack” from 1948 serving up fresh-grilled seafood and family-style service to the dining tables scattered along the pretty pebbled beach.
Paloma Beach promises the French Riviera experience… as it used to be. After a refreshing swim in the crystal clear water, lie back on a deckchair with an icy glass of rose’ and listen to the cicadas buzzing in the nearby pines. A place of family tradition, celebrity patronage, and the bewitching nostalgia of summers past, Paloma each is the French Riviera, and it would be remiss not to stop here on your Cote d’Azur yacht charter.
Return to where the French Riviera legend truly began, at the gloriously pretty Plage de la Garoupe. This stunning powder-white sand beach is where an American socialite couple called the Murphys launched the French Riviera as a summertime destination in the 1920s, clearing the beach of seaweed and fishing nets and inviting Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Picasso to sunbathe and swim in the crystal clear waters. Today, Plage Keller is the pick of the beach clubs along this pretty cove, offering excellent Mediterranean food in a sophisticated setting and beautiful views across the Bay of Angels to the distant Alps. Take a table on the silky soft sand or a deckchair on the long jetty, shaded by jaunty yellow umbrellas. Celebrity history is everywhere on the Riviera— if you only know where to look, and the refined Plage Keller beach club is the ideal beach club to celebrate the birthplace of the Riviera as we know it.
This designer-chic beach club is part of the Hotel Martinez, and is famous for its wide beach area and vast pontoon with teak decking and deliriously comfortable lounges. The most sought-after beach club experience in Cannes, Z Plage has an adjoining restaurant, a smoothie and cocktail bar, and a beach cabana offering Givenchy spa massages during July and August. Find your heaven under the shade of a white umbrella, or find an oasis of privacy between wisps of white curtains that wave gently in the afternoon breeze.
Z Plage
Baoli Beach
This glamorous beach club is a sister venue to the famous Baoli nightclub in Cannes’ Port Canto, and attracts the same A-list crowd of the young and genetically blessed. With a premier position by the majestic art deco façade of the Carlton Intercontinental hotel, Baoli Beach is the perfect venue to have an elegant lunch at a table on the sand or soak up the sun on the large jetty covered in plush deckchairs. The white and cream décor is set off perfectly against the blue sea and sky, and as the day heads into afternoon there’s a party vibe in the air that carries on long into the summer nights.
Baoli Beach
Saint Tropez
Club 55
When talking of beach clubs in Saint Tropez, you simply must start with Club 55. In 1955 when filming And God Created Woman, Brigitte Bardot’s husband Vadim mistook a simple bungalow on the beach for a bistro, and asked the owner if the film crew could have something to eat. His wife kindly agreed to cook them a meal, and so history was made. That film would propel both Bardot and Saint Tropez to global stardom, and with it, the humble bungalow that would soon become the infamous Club 55 beach club.
Today, the bungalow still stands, surrounded by tall stands of bamboo and tamarisk trees that bend gently in the afternoon breezes which skip up off the water. Tables are shaded by swoops of white canvas, deckchairs are set up on the soft sand with stunning views, and as the day goes on and the inhibitions loosen, people begin to dance. Club 55 is beach club royalty, and the guest list shows it.
For a younger and wilder crowd, head to Nikki Beach St Tropez where beautiful young things dance on tables to big-name DJs, and as much Champagne seems to get sprayed as is drunk. This is hedonism at its most energetic.
In Summer, expect your A-list crowd of young celebrities and racing drivers to be tempered with a crowd of party-goers keen to brush shoulders with the superyacht set. Despite the name, Nikki Beach St Tropez isn’t actually right on the beach, so all the action centres around the pool, which is surrounded by the signature all-white lounges and daybeds of the Nikki Beach franchise.
Tradition is important in Saint Tropez, but it is not everything. Every once in a while, a newcomer announces its arrival with such success and fanfare that it immediately rockets to the top of the ‘must-visit’ list. Bagatelle Beach is one such venue, expanding to Saint Tropez after success in St Barts, Rio, and New York. After a fire destroyed the beach club in early 2016, Bagatelle Beach reopened and is going from strength to strength. The décor is coastal chic, with wicker chairs, white tablecloths, and flashes of bright blue — all reflecting that air of bright light and sparkling sea which makes the Riviera so entirely irresistible to anyone with a touch of romance in their soul.
Bradley Mitton, founder of Mitton Wines and Club Vivanova brings a new level of sophistication to the world of wine for expats in the French Riviera and Monaco.
Hi Bradley. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself, your background, and your business?
I left the UK twenty five years ago to travel and experience Australia and Asia and through various work opportunities, I developed my career in the food and beverage industry and worked for eleven years amongst a number of reputable fine dining restaurants in Australia’s Gold Coast, Cairns, Hong Kong, Manila, Subic Bay and Seoul. The affinity of food and wine played a large part during my last eight years working in Asia and when I moved to Seoul in 2000, I managed an international business that focused on gastronomy, Australian wines and cigars and I acquired the ability to successfully market and promote wines, menus and events. It was when I moved to Berlin in 2002 that I started working primarily in wines and I decided that it was time to set my own company up so on a shoe-string budget, I established Mitton International Wines. The company is based in Berlin, we import boutique Argentinean, Australian, New Zealand and South African wines to Central Europe and we sell exclusively to leading hotels, private clubs, villas, yachts and international restaurants across the Continent. I then pioneered Club Vivanova that runs events in parallel with my wine business in locations that list our products as a service to build relationships with our gastronomy partners. Both Club Vivanova and my wine business work hand-in-hand to develop relationships between our wines and our clients and they are growing dynamically in the seven European countries that we work in. I currently travel throughout Europe training and educating hotel and restaurant employees in the diversity and regionality of New World wines and hosting my wine events that are mostly sold-out in Barcelona, Berlin, Milan Monte Carlo, Prague and Warsaw building great business and social connections for me and my partners. We host around 80 events per year.
Why did you decide to switch gears from being a chef to wine importing/distribution and event management?
It wasn’t something that I planned as I loved running and working in restaurants but as my career progressed, I started moving more towards sales, marketing and events and in 2002, I was flown to Berlin from Seoul and employed by a German wine importing company to channel their portfolio towards the New World and so I went from running restaurants to selling into them and the move was seamless. Having a good understanding of your clientelle is important and I understand the gastronomy business well, so I was naturally able to build a good rapport with my sommelier and restaurant managing clients. Looking back, I am happy I made the move, the restaurant industry is a killer; long hours, heavy pressure and it’s tough to make money in this sector, there’s just so many flaws in the industry that cause financial loss. The social life is great but the financial benefits just didn’t weigh up for me so I think simplifying to a trading operation made business life somewhat less stressful for me and more clean in an operational point of view.
You’ve been running your company now for 13 years. How long did it take for it to become successful?
I’m still working on that. The first five years was just building, setting-up clientelle, establishing a database, changing portfolios, learning from mistakes, losing money left right and centre and basically trying to get a start-up business on the road. It was very tough, long hours but inspirational and a great learning curve. I see my business as an train, with an engine and carriages and you have to continuously fine tune the engine to keep it moving ahead but also make sure the carriages (employees, administration and back-office) are keeping up as in our business, it’s the weakest link that is the threat. The wolf is only as strong as the pack and the pack is only as strong as the wolf; so you have to have the whole package running like clockwork from purchasing to pricing and stocking, communication then delivery and of course, the after-sales. We run a slick and specialist operation, I refuse to accept mediocrity and I’m always challenging ourselves internally to do better and be better and grow but carefully and in a planned and selective manner.
You mentioned that the first few years were tough. How did you keep yourself motivated?
I used to take each day as it came, there are always fires to put out with the business and issues to deal with and you’re going to have battles and you win some and lose some but you’ve just got the make sure that you win the big war, that’s the main objective and you’ve got to always be trying to streamline the way the company runs. The motivation comes from within, you need to be hungry, you have to want to survive and succeed and if you are not driven , you just won’t make it and if you’re not strong, it’s no use even starting out. There are employees and there are entrepreneurs and we all have our place in life and I think I was just born ready; I motivate myself and focus on my targets, taking very little notice of distractions and negative people or influences, I take most of my business decisions myself and I am driven to be the best and I think even though that can sometimes be a bit dangerous, that is the key to success, if it is controlled and not erratic. Never take no for an answer and if you fall down failing, just get up, and start again, keep going. Winston Churchill once said that when you’re going through hell, keep going!
A Club Vivanova Event in Monaco
You’re originally from England but have lived in Australia, Hong Kong, the Philippines, South Korea, Germany, and now France. Which place has been your favorite so far and why?
I’ve enjoyed everywhere that I’ve lived for different reasons and at different times, they showed me many different facets of life; but my favourite part of the world is the South of France. I studied French at school for eight years and I fell in love with the language, the literature, the culture, the food, the art, the women, the fashion, just everything, it was all so romantic and so when I moved back to Europe after Asia, I decided to develop my wine business in Monaco and travelled frequently and just fell back in love with the lifestyle. Eventually I had enough business there to be able to move and now live in the hills behind Cagnes Sur Mer looking down over the Mediterranean and it’s serene. The food is wonderful as are the wines, you can be in many of Europe’s business cities quickly and the pace of life is slow so I can balance that with my frantic, travelling and pressured corporate life running events and wine sales. One thing I have always respected though is my work ethic; it’s a relaxing and ambient place to live but you’ve always got to make money, if you start to get too comfortable here, you can end up on the slippery sslope of just having fun and then waking up one day with nothing. So I still work as hard here as I have ever done, but I just enjoy life in this region so much more than anywhere else I have lived. And I think that if you’re willing to give and commit in business in this part of the world, there are amazing rewards.
Have you ever experienced any major culture shocks?
Yes, plenty and especially in Asia; it’s an amazing place and just has so much to offer and the diversity of cultures is quite astonishing. I’ve lived in mud-huts and tree-houses and travelled extensively through East Timor, Komodo, Lombok, Bali and other parts of Indonesia in the 1990s. I spent a few months in the North of the Philippines living amongst the rice paddies in villages without power and I set-up a restaurant in Boracay (Philippines) before it had any power and the restaurant and kitchens were run off generators. I have many wonderful, humorous, humbling, sad and inspirational stories from my experiences and they all built me to be the person I am today. I’m going to write a book.
Bradley Mitton
Where would you say people are most conscious of how they dress and how they present themselves?
I can’t say France as I think in general, the fashion in this part of the world can be superficial and scruffy so I will say Milan; locals always look sharp and Italians have a wonderful and diverse fashion sense; it’s not a style, it’s a statement and in Milan, everything is fashion, the people, the buildings, the restaurants, the designs, the hotels; they just like to make things look good and they like to look good themselves. It’s a great pleasure walking around Milan seeing how people really take pride in what they wear and how they look; I like that, it shows self-respect and pride and a drive to look and feel well.
The traditional English and French styles are quite different. Would you say living in France has had an influence on your style?
I haven’t lived in the UK for 25 years; the styles are at different ends of the fashion spectrum. Living in France has made me dress less formally but with an open-mind to believing that most clothes fit together, jeans with a jacket and formal shirt, colours that would normally not go in the UK, for example brown shoes with blue trousers is forbidden in the British scene, I’ve become less classical and more Continental and I like it, it’s relaxed. I buy most of my suits from Ermenegildo Zegna, shirts from Gucci and Dolce Gabbana, ties from Hermes and shoes from Tod’s. You can mix and match here as long as you’re looking elegant.
How would you describe your style? How has it evolved over time?
Yes, definitely, we evolve as we get older. I would say I’m a classic dresser, I like clean-cut, blues and whites; I try to dress sharply but casually, open-necked shirts, dark colours and not always formal clothing but I have to look professional and elegant as I’m meeting and doing business with leaders of the greatest hotels on the Continent and they want to deal with like-minded, executive, quick-thinking and clean-cut partners. You have to be able to walk into a room and make an impression in my business and wearing something sharp but acceptable to the eye is important.
What items will you never leave home without?
I never leave home without my sunglasses (unless it’s evening) or a jacket. I always wear a jacket, I think it’s a great accessory to turn any outfit into something that makes a statement. I also always wear one ring, a gold one my Mother gave to me; it’s a charm, but I think minimal jewellery is also important and of course a good watch.
Why is it important to present yourself well?
As I’ve mentioned, the people I deal with in business and the people that I like to surround myself in general in life are international business leaders. They run exceptional and highly professional operations in which success, efficiency and leadership is key and so I have to have an effect on these people when I meet them and in turn, they also want to also do business with sharp, sincere, executive and elegant people. So I have to look the part, to fit the sector that I work in and that means dressing well, not over-dressing but just to be clean and crisp and I have to wear that character well to present myself in the right manner. It’s not just what you wear though, it’s how to carry that but the impression has to be right and of course the style of clothes you wear is important.
Turning back to Club Vivanova – what are the most important elements of a good event?
Again, I think it all comes back to relationships and efficiency. One of my regular attendees recently sent me a testimonial, it said “Bradley is the soul of Club Vivanova, the brains and the heart behind it, and that is a guarantee in itself for us that he will continue to attract new and interesting people.” My club members and my clients trust my judgement and they expect excellence, they expect the best and I cannot give anything else, no waivering, no excuses, we have to perform at the absolute top level as reputations are always at stake and so we have to put on a good show. If we have partners involved, they have to fit the profile, they hav to be leaders in their sector. The most important elements for a successful event are good communication, promotion and advertising of the date, an excellent and tested menu with specialist wines that match, a unique venue that is managed well so there are no disappointments and then of course I run each event like my own open pop-up restaurant, we manage the door, the aperitif, the service, the menu, wines, presentations then the finale of the event with appreciations, after-service images posted online and so on. We have to have a well-run, professionally executed package so people arrive, and they know I’m taking care of business until the end of the night. It is tough work as we’re dealing with temperamental human beings, alcohol and food it can get complicated but it is inspirational and challenging and I love it, because we always do it right and so we always succeed.
What are your future plans for your businesses and your “brand”?
I just keep my head down, keep pushing for better and more exclusive events, inspirational event partners, out-of-the-box thinking in regards to the concepts but all the time, remembering that it’s the clients who have to enjoy themselves so we have to feature projects that will impress or interest them. Our plans include two galas in 2016, one at the Fairmont on 12th March and one at the Café de Paris on 23rd April. I’m also releasing and wine and food cookery book and we’re just going to keep pushing to be better, fine-tuning all the time, listening to our clients, re-focusing and using all of the criticism we get positively to drive the brand forward fast. The brand has grown extensively in Monaco, though it is always important to be grounded in this part of the world and stick to the basic guidelines of running a successful business. Success goes to people’s heads, not mine, we’re still the same, caring, small company we were ten years ago, straight and true and I’ll never lose that special sincere touch that we give to everything that we do.
Are there any rules or principles that you live by? What keeps you grounded?
Principally, I try to be a gentleman. I believe in truth and sincerity, there is no other way; and that you only get out of life what you put in, I am a non-believer in luck or fate, business and success is 0% luck and 100% determination and grit. My father always taught me that there are two ways of doing things in life, the right way and the wrong way and the right way is always the hard way and so getting to the top is painful and sometimes lonely but when we strive for that and drive ourselves to do things correctly, no short-cuts, no excuses, then we normally get to where we want to be. And then when we get there, we aim for the next plateau and so on. Driven people are never satisfied, they just want to keep becoming better and better and so I stick to my principles and strive for greatness in work and in life. I’m grounded because I’m a father, my son is 16, he lives with me in France and so I have a wonderful home life, full of love and happiness. I cook a lot at home, I entertain and run my home like an extension of my old restaurants and that is what gives me the grounding that I need. I love nature and so spend lots of time in my garden and I run most mornings between 5 and 10 kilometres, it clears my mind, focuses and channels my thoughts and once I arrive at my desk, I’m ready to challenge anything that comes my way.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
In my field of sales and marketing, I would advise entrepreneurs not to take on anything that you are passionate about, you have to work with a business almost remotely as if you’re tuning a racing car, feelings and personalities have to be left behind. If you’re too close to your business personally, you’ll make emotional decisions, not good. Decisions have to be made clinically and with a view to total survival. I’m not saying that you have to be impersonal but business is business and business is cut-throat these days and if you want to succeed and build something substantial in a lifetime, you have to be ready to challenge, sacrifice, accept physical and mental pain and sleepless nights and drive yourself to perfection. Nothing in this life is easy, there is no free lunch, so be prepared to do it the right way, the hard way and always surround yourself with amazing, smart, sharp and successful people and always be true! “If you can keep your wits about you while all others are losing theirs, and blaming you. The world will be yours and everything in it, and what’s more, you’ll be a man, my son.”
Elegant, timeless and effortlessly refined, ANTISAN Yacht is a true classic on the French Riviera charter scene. Permanently based in the iconic Vieux Port de Cannes, ANTISAN Yacht is one of the most appealing choices for luxury yacht charter in Cannes — particularly for groups seeking generous space, stability and understated sophistication.
At 33 metres in length with an impressive beam of nearly 8 metres, ANTISAN Yacht offers the internal volume and reassuring stability typically associated with significantly larger yachts. Her proportions translate into expansive exterior decks, providing ample room for alfresco dining, relaxed sunbathing and stylish entertaining against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.
Inside, ANTISAN Yacht combines classic design elements with contemporary comfort. Warm finishes, elegant furnishings and thoughtfully arranged living areas create an inviting onboard atmosphere — ideal for both leisurely family cruising and refined corporate hospitality. Large windows enhance natural light throughout, while the spacious layout ensures guests enjoy comfort without compromise.
For clients searching for a well-priced charter yacht in Cannes that delivers both scale and style, ANTISAN Yacht represents exceptional value. Whether cruising between the Îles de Lérins, Monaco and Saint-Tropez or hosting elegant quayside receptions during major Riviera events, ANTISAN offers versatility, presence and proven appeal.
With her prime Cannes location, balanced performance and classic aesthetic, ANTISAN Yacht remains a superb option for relaxed luxury on the Côte d’Azur.
ANTISAN Yacht is available for Mediterranean charters year-round, offering an exceptional platform for both private cruising and high-profile corporate entertaining. Renowned for her versatility and prime positioning during Riviera events, ANTISAN has become a standout name for luxury yacht hospitality in Cannes.
Her highly experienced, professional crew are particularly skilled in delivering seamless service during major international gatherings. From discreet executive meetings to large-scale brand activations, ANTISAN Yacht ensures every charter is executed with precision, style and attention to detail.
Designed with both relaxation and entertaining in mind, ANTISAN features generous onboard spaces that allow clients to fully tailor their experience. Sun-drenched decks provide the perfect setting for daytime receptions, while elegant interior areas transition effortlessly into sophisticated evening venues for cocktail parties and networking events.
When moored in the prestigious Vieux Port de Cannes, ANTISAN Yacht can host up to 100 guests quayside, making her an exceptional option for luxury yacht events in Cannes. During key industry gatherings — including Cannes Lions, Cannes Film Festival, MIPIM, ILTM and MIDEM — her capacity can be expanded further by utilising the adjacent quay. This flexibility makes ANTISAN Yacht an ideal venue for large-scale receptions, media launches and exclusive celebrations.
For clients seeking a proven, professional and prestigious setting for Cannes yacht events, ANTISAN Yacht delivers year-round Mediterranean availability combined with unrivalled event expertise in the heart of the Côte d’Azur.
As Renoir so eloquently suggested, the spirit of the French Riviera is something to be experienced rather than explained. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Cannes, where luminous Mediterranean light, refined culture and maritime glamour converge. To stand before the same horizons that inspired master painters, dine in Michelin-starred restaurants overlooking the sea, and glide across sapphire bays aboard a private yacht is to encounter the Riviera at its most authentic. A yacht charter in Cannes offers not simply a holiday, but an immersion into a lifestyle shaped by beauty, elegance and freedom.
Cannes is far more than a glamorous seaside resort; it is one of the Riviera’s most strategic and sophisticated charter hubs. Ideally positioned at the heart of the Côte d’Azur, the city provides immediate access to some of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated cruising grounds. Within minutes of departing the historic Vieux Port or nearby Port Canto, yachts can anchor off the tranquil Îles de Lérins — a protected archipelago known for crystal-clear waters, pine forests and historic monasteries. These islands offer an idyllic first stop, perfect for swimming, snorkelling and relaxed alfresco lunches surrounded by pristine nature.
From Cannes, routes unfold effortlessly in multiple directions. Cruising east reveals the dramatic coastline toward Antibes, Cap d’Antibes and Monaco, where rugged cliffs give way to elegant harbours and cosmopolitan sophistication. Heading west leads toward the golden beaches of the Estérel coastline and onward to Saint-Tropez, famed for its beach clubs, nightlife and legendary harbour scene. This central location allows charter guests to experience a wide spectrum of Riviera highlights without long passages at sea.
Accessibility is one of Cannes’ greatest advantages as a yacht charter base. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, located less than thirty kilometres away, offers extensive international connections, while Cannes-Mandelieu Airport accommodates private jets with exceptional efficiency. Helicopter transfers between airport and yacht can take as little as fifteen minutes, ensuring a seamless arrival from runway to deck. VIP terminals, concierge services and dedicated ground support further enhance the sense of effortless luxury.
Cannes’ infrastructure is designed to host global events of the highest calibre, including internationally renowned film festivals, trade shows and cultural gatherings. As a result, marina facilities, security services and hospitality standards are among the best in the Mediterranean. Charter guests benefit from this expertise, enjoying smooth logistics, premium provisioning and professional support throughout their stay.
Time ashore in Cannes offers an abundance of indulgent experiences. The iconic Boulevard de la Croisette forms the city’s glamorous spine, lined with palm trees, luxury hotels and flagship boutiques from the world’s most prestigious fashion houses. Designer shopping, private appointments and bespoke services cater to discerning visitors seeking exclusivity. Along the waterfront, chic beach clubs provide comfortable loungers, attentive service and excellent cuisine, creating the perfect setting for leisurely days by the sea.
Gastronomy is another highlight of Cannes. From traditional Provençal restaurants hidden within the historic quarter of Le Suquet to contemporary fine-dining venues overlooking the bay, the culinary scene is both diverse and refined. Fresh seafood, regional wines and innovative cuisine reflect the richness of Mediterranean culture. Many charter guests choose to combine shore-side dining with onboard meals prepared by a private chef, creating a seamless blend of experiences.
Cannes also offers cultural depth beyond its glamorous façade. Museums, galleries and nearby historic villages reveal quieter dimensions of the Riviera, where art, heritage and local traditions remain deeply rooted. Excursions into the Provençal hinterland can include wine tastings at family-run estates, visits to perfume houses in Grasse or guided tours of medieval hilltop towns with sweeping coastal views. These experiences provide balance, complementing the excitement of coastal cruising.
At sea, the appeal of a charter yacht in Cannes becomes even more compelling. Mornings begin with uninterrupted ocean vistas and the gentle sound of water against the hull. Guests can swim in sheltered coves before breakfast, enjoy water sports throughout the day, and relax on deck as the yacht glides between destinations. As evening approaches, the Riviera’s famous light transforms the coastline into a palette of gold, rose and violet, creating unforgettable sunset moments best appreciated from the privacy of your own vessel.
Nightfall offers further possibilities. Some guests prefer tranquil anchorages beneath star-filled skies, while others return to port to experience Cannes’ vibrant nightlife, rooftop bars and elegant waterfront venues. The flexibility to alternate between serenity and excitement is one of the defining pleasures of chartering a yacht.
Combining exceptional accessibility, world-class hospitality and immediate proximity to iconic cruising areas, Cannes stands as one of the premier starting points for a French Riviera yacht charter. It offers the perfect balance between cosmopolitan sophistication and natural beauty, between cultural richness and carefree leisure. For travellers seeking to design a personalised Mediterranean journey — whether focused on relaxation, adventure or celebration — Cannes provides an unrivalled gateway.
Ultimately, a yacht charter in Cannes captures the essence of the Riviera itself: radiant light, effortless elegance and the freedom to explore at your own pace. From secluded island anchorages to glamorous harbours alive with energy, every moment reflects the timeless allure that has drawn artists, celebrities and travellers to this coastline for generations. Once experienced from the water, Cannes reveals why it remains one of the most compelling and luxurious destinations in the Mediterranean.
When it comes to luxury in Cannes, few destinations rival the prestige and polish of this iconic French Riviera resort. Synonymous with red carpets, superyachts and designer boutiques, Cannes is a curated showcase of the beautiful, the glamorous and the covetable.
Throughout the year, the city plays host to some of the world’s most prestigious events, including the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes Lions and Cannes Yachting Festival. These headline gatherings attract celebrities, global business leaders and tastemakers, ensuring there is never a shortage of high-profile guests, luxury experiences and high-octane soirées.
From the palm-lined Boulevard de la Croisette to the elegant terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, luxury in Cannes is woven into the fabric of daily life. Designer maisons line the shopping streets, Michelin-starred restaurants serve refined Riviera cuisine, and legendary hotels provide discreet five-star hospitality. Private beach clubs host sunset champagne receptions, while exclusive villas in the hills offer panoramic sea views and total privacy.
To help you experience the very best of luxury in Cannes, we’ve curated an Insider’s Guide highlighting our favourite places to shop, dine, stay and celebrate like an A-lister. Whether you are seeking couture fashion, world-class gastronomy, glamorous nightlife or serene five-star retreats, Cannes delivers an effortlessly sophisticated lifestyle that continues to define Riviera luxury.
An Italian Riviera yacht charter begins just east of the French border, where the coastline of Liguria unfolds in a dramatic sweep of cliffs, colourful villages and elegant seaside resorts. This celebrated stretch of north-western Italy offers a perfect introduction to Italian culture, cuisine and coastal beauty — all best experienced from the water.
The Ligurian coastline is divided into two distinct regions on either side of Genoa: the Riviera di Ponente to the west and the Riviera di Levante to the east. Together, they create a diverse cruising ground ideal for a yacht charter itinerary.
The Riviera di Ponente is characterised by broader bays and sophisticated coastal towns, while the Riviera di Levante offers a more rugged and romantic landscape. Here, pastel-coloured fishing villages cascade toward the sea, olive and chestnut groves climb into the hills, and narrow mountain roads connect charming hilltop towns with sweeping Mediterranean views.
An Italian Riviera yacht charter allows access to hidden coves, secluded beaches and quiet anchorages that are often unreachable by land. Pine trees cling to rocky cliffs above crystalline waters, and small harbours welcome yachts with authentic Italian warmth. Iconic destinations such as Portofino and the villages of Cinque Terre reveal their true beauty when approached by sea.
Beyond the scenery, the Italian Riviera delivers rich cultural heritage and exceptional gastronomy. Days can be spent exploring historic port cities, dining on freshly caught seafood in waterfront trattorias, and cruising along a coastline where the Alps rise gently in the distance.
For those seeking Mediterranean cruising infused with Italian elegance, an Italian Riviera yacht charter offers contrast, character and timeless appeal — a classic destination where natural beauty and refined coastal living exist in perfect balance.
Alexander Coles is the Owner and Senior Yacht Charter Broker at Bespoke Yacht Charter, a company he founded in 2014 after 13 years’ experience arranging luxury yacht charters in the south of France, throughout the Mediterranean and worldwide. More than half of his bookings are repeat clients or referrals from existing clients that include ultra high net worth individuals, celebrities, royal families and large corporations. His aim is to deliver beyond all expectations – whether he arranges a charter booking for a two week Summer holiday for a family looking for the last word in discretion, through to corporate yacht charters for companies looking to present an extremely high profile at an important event.
What is it that you do exactly?
I arrange luxury yacht charters for highly discerning individuals from all over the world. I specialize in all Mediterranean yachting destinations but with particular emphasis on the Côte d’Azur and French Riviera, such places as St Tropez, Cannes and Monaco. The yachts I offer are from 25-100m in length and are all fully crewed by highly professional crew, offering the ultimate in floating luxury. In addition to yachting holidays, I also rent yachts to companies attending prestigious events in the south of France such as the Cannes Lions, MIPIM and the Cannes Film Festival.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
I love the fact that I spend my days arranging experiences designed to give others pleasure! My clients are usually very busy business people and they want their holidays to be absolutely perfect in every way. Working very closely with each yacht’s Captain and crew, I aim to ensure an absolutely seamless luxury experience for each client.
What would you say are the 3 best places you’ve ever stayed?
I absolutely adore this legendary hotel on the luxurious Cap d’Antibes peninsula between Antibes and Cannes in the south of France. The hotel is incredibly private and set in beautiful gardens with fabulous views of the Mediterranean. The staff are utterly AMAZING! It’s incredibly luxurious but in a very discrete and unpretentious way. If you haven’t stayed there, I strongly recommend it. It is to my mind and many others, the best hotel in the world!
I first discovered this wonderful villa on the island of Korcula in 2007 and booked it for two weeks. It was my first visit to Croatia and I have been going there ever since. The house is surrounded by the sea on three sides with the most stunning views. It has a private pontoon for swimming and taking a boat or kayak out into the bay. It’s an extremely private place and you could stay there for weeks without seeing a soul! This villa is a place to truly lose yourself and switch off. The nearby town of Vela Luka has plenty of shops and restaurants if you ever feel like going out!
I often go to concerts in Milan in the summer months and discovered this fabulous hotel on the internet completely by chance. This hotel is truly unique, part loft apartment, part gentlemen’s club… each suite is themed around something different, motor racing, tennis etc. It’s not often you have Louis Vuitton trunks in your room, unless they’re yours of course! Truly fabulous decoration and beautiful objets d’art to be found throughout. The bar and terrace are also stunning! As the name implies, the hotel is set around a beautiful courtyard right in the centre of Milan, my favourite city in Italy.
What’s been your most memorable dining experience to date?
I have been lucky enough to have dined at some of the best restaurants in the world, Le Louis XV in Monaco, Le Gravroche in London etc. But the one that really stands out is The Five Fields in London. I went there with my wife for my birthday last year and was truly blown away. Chef Marguerite Keogh is incredibly talented and uses beautiful ingredients in very creative ways. The food is rare in that it is incredibly stylish but definitely not style over substance. We had the tasting menu and every course was a triumph. The restaurant has been receiving rave reviews and I am sure it is only a matter of time before the Michelin inspectors give the restaurant the recognition it deserves!
Have you rubbed shoulders with the rich and famous, either through your work or your travels?
Yes absolutely! The vast majority of my clients are rather wealthy to say the least, and some of them pretty famous too. I certainly won’t name any names but celebrities certainly love chartering yachts!
I always attend the Monaco Grand Prix and have seen lots of famous faces there, both from the world of F1 of course but also music and cinema. I also love the restaurant Cipriani in Monaco, owned by Flavio Briatore, there are always lots of famous people in there and at the nearby club Twiga! The same is true of some of the beach clubs at Pampelonne near St Tropez.
Funnily enough, for all the celebrities I see on the Côte d’Azur, I actually probably see more famous people in London, specifically around Kensington and Chelsea where I spend a great deal of time.
There is an Italian restaurant called La Famiglia in Chelsea that I’ve been going to since I was in nappies. I must have been there hundreds of times and there is always a famous actor or musician eating there every time I go! As a child, I had my photo taken there with Clint Eastwood and the photo stills hangs on the wall in the restaurant.
What currently ranks highest on your travel wish list?
I can’t wait to go to India! I have heard so much about the country and people! Those I know that have been, absolutely rave about it – the food, the colours, the vibrancy. I want to do it justice though and go for a couple of months so I am waiting until I have the time. Spare time is a bit of a luxury at the moment!
Thank you for taking part in our interview, Alex. Good luck with your quest to get to India – I was lucky enough to be there for a couple of days in 2013 but, like you say, it was sadly definitely nowhere near long enough to remotely do it justice!
This interview was originally published on A Luxury Travel Blog and can be found here
Food tourism continues to rise, and for anyone exploring the Côte d’Azur — especially by yacht — discovering the local restaurants in Nice is an essential part of the experience. As one of the French Riviera’s most vibrant culinary capitals, Nice offers an exceptional blend of tradition, innovation and Mediterranean flair.
For yacht charter guests cruising the coastline, Nice makes a perfect gastronomic stopover. From the colourful stalls of Cours Saleya market to tucked-away bistros in the Old Town and refined dining rooms overlooking the Baie des Anges, the city delivers flavour at every level.
Niçoise cuisine is deeply rooted in local produce and Provençal heritage, yet it reflects the city’s unique crossroads position between France and Italy. The result is a rich culinary identity shaped by Mediterranean ingredients and influenced by Italy, North Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the broader regions of France. Olive oil, tomatoes, anchovies, fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables form the backbone of many dishes, while seafood features prominently thanks to the city’s coastal setting.
Dining at local restaurants in Nice offers far more than a meal — it is a sensory journey. The aromas of basil and garlic drift through narrow streets, markets burst with colour and energy, and sunlit terraces provide the perfect backdrop for long, leisurely lunches.
Whether sampling traditional Niçoise specialities in an authentic neighbourhood eatery or enjoying contemporary interpretations in a modern Michelin-starred venue, Nice presents a culinary landscape that is both diverse and distinctly local. For visitors seeking genuine Riviera flavour, the local restaurants in Nice remain one of the city’s greatest pleasures.
All holidaymakers know that other than beautiful surroundings, luxurious accommodation and the much-deserved opportunity to relax, no holiday would be complete without good food. Luckily the South of France has the culinary prowess to make fine dining a certainty on your Mediterranean escape. Naturally, French Riviera Helicopter Transfer and gourmet cuisine go together like champagne and caviar. That’s why so many restaurants have exclusive helicopter landing spots, which allow for quick and luxurious transfers directly to their grounds. We spoke to the leading helicopter transfer company on the French Riviera, Heli Securite, who have recommended the following five restaurants with landing spots for direct landing.
Tahiti Beach
Tahiti Beach, Saint-Tropez
Tahiti Beach is one of the best-located restaurants in Saint-Tropez and perfectly represents the joie de vivre for which the seaside town is universally famous. Fortunately, the food is wonderful, the atmosphere is relaxed and the friendly staff make you feel at home. Tahiti’s food is consistently good and served by the sea with the selection of freshly caught fish and tasty pizza straight from the oven being highlights. In fact, it’s difficult to know what you’ll enjoy more: the delicious food or spectacular sea views.
Chez Bruno
Chez Bruno, Lorgues
Famed for its truffles, the one-Michelin-star Chez Bruno serves more of this exquisite delicacy than any other restaurant in the world. Bruno has been running this iconic restaurant set in the pretty Provençal town of Lorgues for many years and it’s a truly local family business, which has started to expand internationally.
The outdoor setting of idyllic gardens and a terrace is lovely in the summer and during winter a roaring fire gives the cosy interior a magical feel. This really is truffle heaven, and Bruno’s signature dish, a potato and truffle combination, has people returning for more. Most of the produce is found within two hours of the restaurant, so diners are guaranteed the finest quality.
La Bouitte
La Bouitte, Saint Martin de Belleville
La Bouitte is a charming hotel located at the foot of the Saint-Marcel ski slopes in Saint–Martin de Belleville. However, it’s the hotel’s restaurant that really draws the crowds. René and Maxime Meilleur are a father and son team whose impeccable cuisine has been granted three Michelin stars and classified among the ‘great gables of the world’ since 2012. The restaurant is set in an authentic mountain chalet with a cosy yet chic decor befitting an establishment that prides itself on creating cuisine that respects the quality of local products and the art of cooking. The outside terrace nestled amongst the trees is perfect for apres ski drinks or a pre-flight lunch, since the helipad is located 50 metres away.
Les Gorges de Pennafort
Les Gorges de Pennafort, Callas
Les Gorges de Pennafort is one of Provence’s unmissable highlights set in a beautiful setting close to the Cote d’Azur. Chef Philippe Sa Silva and his wife took over management of the restaurant twenty years ago and haven’t looked back, even receiving a Michelin star in that time. His innovative use of regional produce combined with a contemporary twist, such as foie gras and Parmesan ravioli, have won the loyalty of international customers. Chef Da Silva’s flavoursome menu also extends to an impressive cocktail list, including their unique speciality: champagne with grapefruit cream. The sensationally sublime cuisine can be enjoyed in the elegant and light-infused dining room or outside on the terrace under a bioclimatic pergola, which adapts to the weather conditions.
La Bastide de Moustiers
La Bastide de Moustiers, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
La Bastide de Moustiers’s restaurant serves provençale cuisine in a wonderfully rural country setting. The lovely country house is an upscale inn owned by Alain Ducasse, a noted chef famous for his three Michelin star restaurant in London’s Dorchester hotel among others. Nestled in the Provence village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the restaurant sits amid ancient olive trees and vibrant lavender bushes. The menu changes daily in accordance with the products available in the hotel’s vegetable garden and is served under a shaded terrace. Chilled pea and fava bean bouillon, steak, chimney baked lamb, and a cocotte of spring vegetables are all mouth-watering favourites prepared with care and attention.
