The Côte d'Azur
There is a certain je ne sais quoi about the Côte d'Azur that makes it a luxury destination for all yacht lovers year upon year. Perhaps it is the tropical climate, the turquoise waters or cerulean sky? Whatever it is, here is our guide to where to moor up your yacht when sailing this stretch of sumptuousness coastline and what to do on dry land.
Monaco
Moor
One of the few deep-water ports along the Côte d'Azur, Port Hercule Port is a natural bay at the foot of the rock of the princes of Monaco. Easily accommodating a grand total of 50 superyachts, you can be sure to find a space to dock.
Must-have experience
Step inside the legend that is the Casino de Monte Carlo. One of the first major casinos in the world and undoubtedly the most prestigious, this belle époque palace is the spot to place your bets.
Culture
The legendary Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra performs its summer concerts in the majestic setting of the Main Courtyard at the Princely Palace. Performed under the stars, the timeless allure of the Orchestra goes hand in hand with celestial splendour and the opulence of Royalty.
Lunch
You would be forgiven for thinking you have stumbled into Versailles when you walk into Le Louis XV - Alain Ducass. Set in a breathtakingly elegant room that glitters with gold and majesty, the hands of the clock stop at twelve as a reminder that time is of no consequence here; you are here to be pleasured. The food is exquisite, ethereal in fact. With flavours both authentic yet innovative, menus exude elegance and luxury. This is a timeless experience, there is nowhere in the world like it.
Party
Monaco's reputation of hedonism would not be complete without Jimmy'z. Attracting the younger, faster-living crowds and having had more celebrities, royals and sports stars walk through its doors than it is possible to mention, it is the place to be seen. The atmosphere is buzzing, the prices are fabulous and top models and millionaires are almost a feature of the décor.
Saint Tropez
Moor
Port de Saint-Tropez has a capacity for 734 moorings, divided between the old harbour and a new marina, on an area of nine hectares in the heart of the village. Definitely the spot to dock, it is a bustling, well-stocked marina.
Must-have experience
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is an exhibition of nautical prowess taking place in the fall. Twenty-six years old, the regatta calls extraordinary modern sailing boats and beautiful traditional yachts to come together and battle for the coveted Rolex Trophy.
Culture
What is more cultured than a game of polo? Situated between Saint Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne in Gassin, the Polo Club Saint-Tropez is an enchanting experience. International teams come to play unique tournaments all year long including the famous International Polo Cup. The location is wonderfully romantic, the food exquisite, the drinks refreshing and the atmosphere casual chic.
Lunch
Arguably the most famous beach club in the world, you must lunch at Le Club 55. Rub shoulders with A-listers and aristocracy whilst you indulge in the gorgeous rosé and sublime food, brought swiftly to your table draped in provincial blue tablecloth. With an unrivalled atmosphere The club prides itself on fun and relaxation where everyone is welcome - even your dog is well catered for at the Dog Bar.
Party
With the best DJs, fashion shows and general ambiance, Nikki Beach is the best place to party. An opulent and indulgent experience, expect to find models being sprayed with bottles of champagne whilst celebrities dance around the pool. Queues are long but the experience is unrivalled. If you are looking for a wildly fun night in true Saint Tropez style, Nikki Beach is the place.
Cap d'Antibes
Moor
Port Vauban is the largest marina in Europe, and the spot to dock on the Cap d'Antibes. Home to some of the world's most luxurious superyachts, including those owned by Mr Abramovich, it is the place to see and be seen. An added luxury is that it also has a base for up to one hundred professional fishing boats that deliver fresh fish to the port each day.
Must have experience
One of, if not the main occupation in Le Cap d'Antibes is relaxing on the stupendous private beaches.We recommend Le Pavillon Beach. Situated in Baie de la Garoupe, one of the most scenic and elegant bays on the French Riviera lined with succulents and white laurels. Its tranquil, clear waters make it a popular place for yachts to moor up, and the swimming conditions are exceptional.
Culture
The Picasso museum is housed in the Grimaldi Chateau, a castle in a majestic position with views over Antibes and the Mediterranean Sea. The museum holds some splendid examples of Picasso's work, as well as the work of other contemporary artists. Walking in his footsteps in his former home, alongside the splendid views and famous art pieces created here is a truly inspiring experience.
Lunch
Regarded as one of the 100 best restaurants in the World by Elite Traveller, the Eden-Roc restaurant at Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc, is simply splendid. With a majestic view overlooking the Lérins Islands and the most elegant interiors around, the hotel is the definition of a beach-come-palace (and favourite of the late Duke of Windsor). The food is the freshest you can get and crafted with extreme accuracy using subtle yet refined flavours.
Party
Antibes is to Jazz what its neighbour Cannes is to film. For two weeks every summer Antibes and the neighbouring town of Juan-les-Pins come alive with the sound of jazz for http://www.jazzajuan.com/; one of the world's most famous Jazz festivals. The festival has attracted many big names in jazz over the years, including Ray Charles.
Cannes
Moor
View Porte de Cannes (Old Port) is composed of 800 moorings, with 65 berths accommodating yachts up to 145m. Situated at the end of the Quai du Large, it sits adjacent to the Palais des Festivals; the centre of international events. It is home to the world's most stunning superyachts and has staff so agreeable that you feel you are mooring at a boutique marina.
Must-have experience
Everybody knows the reason why Cannes is famous; the Cannes Film Festival. You do not have to be Hollywood glitterati to attend the festival and although we all want tickets for the black tie, Saturday night premiere screenings, there are many lovely films screened at the Cannes Cinephile section you can see. And to be honest, if you are in Cannes during the festival (the right place at the right time) who knows whose shoulder's you may brush and what party you may happen to get into?
Culture
Escape Cannes briefly and visit the romantic natural wonders of the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat. Home to the monks of Lérins Abbey for 16 centuries, vineyards sprawl through the interior and churches, fortresses and abbeys drape the coastline. Visit the 17th century Fort Royal, which prisoned the infamous Man in the Iron Mask, and the museum of the sea. If history is not your thing, walk the scented paths and enchanted forests with views over the turquoise waters of the Côte d'Azur.
Lunch
The restaurant La Palme d'Or takes you in a gastronomic voyage that enlivens all the senses. With two Michelin stars, a glamorous Art Deco interior and stunning views over the Bay of Cannes, the restaurant has an international reputation. The French, come Modern European, food uses local produce in innovative ways. The wonderfully pleasant staff provide quality service and make this an all-round unforgettable experience.
Party
If Dolce and Gabbana love it enough to host their party there, you know Baoli Cannes is incredible. This is where the big names party and once you are in you will realise why this is the case. An exotic palace with palm trees and opulent décors, this place is extravagant yet tasteful. With a restaurant, bar and club you can spend your entire evening here. With the party running inside and out, this is the perfect Riviera nightspot.