Grand Escapes: the beautiful and historic town of Antibes, France

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The French Riviera, otherwise known as the French Riviera, is located along the southern coast of France and stretches from Saint Tropez to Cannes via Monaco. This beautiful stretch along the Mediterranean Sea is home to both prestigious and charming towns, including the breathtaking Antibes, the second largest city on the French Riviera located between Nice and Cannes, which offers both luxury and quaint old world charm. .

Antibes has long drawn jetset crowds with its five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the Mediterranean’s largest marina, full of superyachts during its peak season from May to September.

Not only does Antibes host a host of glitter year after year, but it has also been a source of inspiration for iconic artists like Pablo Picasso, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Claude Monet, to name a few. It features Mediterranean mansions with red roofs growing on the hills, azure water, white sandy beaches and canopies of pines, acacias and cypresses.

The United States was moved to France’s “orange list” of countries on Thursday, meaning American leisure travelers are welcome as long as they are vaccinated. For those who can, now is the perfect time to experience the charm of the French Riviera (all the easier with direct flights from New York to Nice).

TO STAY

Located along the rocky coast, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has 118 rooms, as well as three private luxury villas available for rent.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc

By far one of the most historic hotels in all of southern France, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has an impressive history stretching back 150 years. Originally built as a mansion in 1869 and finally opened as a hotel in 1887, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc has hosted John F. Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Taylor, and more. It is a favorite for many movie stars during the Cannes Film Festival.

Located along the rocky coast, the hotel has 118 rooms, as well as three private luxury villas available for rent. Most famous for its large facade and its pebble path leading from the main hotel to the ocean, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc also has nine restaurants and bars, including the restaurant Louroc, one Michelin star.

The Hotel Belles Rives is another magnificent and historic five star hotel in Antibes. F. Scott Fitzgerald lived here and wrote part of Gatsby the magnificent for these reasons (although at the time it was not called Belles Rives). The quaint property is set along the Mediterranean Sea and has four restaurants and bars, as well as a Valmont spa and marina where you can water ski and swim.

TO EAT

There are several Michelin starred or Guide Michelin restaurants in Antibes, as well as other small restaurants, cafes and bars. One of the most famous places, especially for Cannes Film Festival stars, is Mamo Michelangelo, an Italian restaurant run by Chef Mamo for over 30 years. It is housed in a stone cellar and known for its truffle ravioli, spalla di agnello and rabbit with herbs.

For a great gastronomic experience in the old town of Antibes, head to Les Pêcheurs, 1 Michelin star restaurant at the Relais & Châteaux hotel, Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel. The menu showcases local suppliers and products selected by chef Nicolas Rondelli. There is also a fabulous wine list, and Frédéric, the head sommelier, will offer you a pairing for each beautifully made dish.

Finally, Le Figuier de Saint-Esprit, a Michelin star in Old Antibes, is housed in a Provencal-inspired country house with a beautiful outdoor terrace. Chef Christian Morisset draws up his menu as if it were works of art. Mediterranean-inspired dishes include duck foie gras with melon and spinach and chickpea pies with oriental flavors.

Antibes is also full of traditional French bakeries and cafes, and you shouldn’t miss Lilian Bonnefoi. Bonnefoi is the pastry chef at the Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc and has her own boutique in Antibes, with a sunny terrace. He is a master chocolatier and his shop offers traditional French pastries, cakes and drinks.

Les Pêcheurs is a 1 Michelin star restaurant within the Relais & Châteaux hotel, Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel.

Fisherman

TO LIVE

In addition to fabulous food and hotels, Antibes’ prime location along the Mediterranean Sea attracts travelers from all over the world. Yachts are known to anchor here, and there are numerous coves and beaches for swimming and exploring. A boat trip is a must in Antibes, and 212 Yachts offers boats for all prices and all parties.

Antibes is known for its myriad of markets, including La Marche Provençale, famous for its fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, cheese, honey, jams, etc. In the afternoon, it turns into a craft market. Depending on the time and day of the week you go, there is always something local and exciting going on.

TO EXPLORE

The old town of Antibes is full of cobbled streets, winding alleys and centuries-old buildings. Cars aren’t allowed in the Old Town, so the best way to explore it is on foot, and you’ll be glad you did.

Antibes was once the ancient Greek city of Antipolis, and many historical remains, including castles, remain. Just north of the old town is Fort Carré, one of Antibes’ most popular attractions. Built in the 16th century by King Henry II, the fort was built for military defense purposes and later a prison. Napoleon Bonaparte was famously imprisoned here. It is located along the peninsula and offers stunning views over Antibes, including the marina. There are tours throughout the year, which enlighten guests on the enchanting history of the fort and Antibes.

The Picasso Museum is a former castle called Châtau Grimaldi, which the artist Pablo Picasso used as a workshop from 1946. It houses 250 works by Picasso. Spend a few hours or an afternoon exploring the castle and admiring some of Picasso’s works.

At night, Antibes is full of families, local artisans selling their works and live music. Whether in the main square or in La Marche Provençale, grab a pancake or an ice cream and listen to the local musicians.

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