The French Riviera, Cote d'Azurs Highlights

The Corniches, most spectacular road trips

The Cote d'Azurs Corniches are some of the most spectacular roads in the world. Carved into the mountainside creating one of the most dramatic and inspiring views in Europe are three roads; the Grande Corniche at the top, the Moyenne Corniche in the middle and the Basse Corniche along the coast.

The Grande Corniche (Highest Road)


Grande Corniche, the road where Hitchcock filmed Grace Kelly driving in "To Catch a Thief" was built by Napoleon, 1,600ft above sea level over the ancient Via Julia Augusta. Consisting of gut wrenching hairpin turns and sheer drops, the route is sandwiched by the expanse of the Mediterranean on one side and rustic villas, pines and cactuses on the other. The views do at times, get masked by mist and clouds because of the altitude. The main town is La Turbie, location of the Trophee des Alpes (14BC) where Caesar conquered the Gauls. North of La Turbie, the D53 leads to the "village perche" (a village on top of a relief which is naturally difficult to access) of Peille, one of the Riviera's prettiest.

LOOK OUT FOR SIGNS - Grand Corniche can be hard to find

The Moyenne Corniche (Middle Road)


The Moyenne Corniche is the mid-level road (the N7), built between 1910 and 1928 to alleviate traffic. Being a bit higher up the cliffs, the Moyenne Corniche has great views but less intimidating a drive compared to that of the Grande Corniche. A favorite stopping point is the town of Eze, a pedestrian-only fortified medieval village. There are some great views towards Nice from the top of the hill, which requires some hiking.

Stop at the Col de Villefranche just before the long tunnel for a kodak moment. Great spot for photos of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Cap Ferrat, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice and Cap d'Antibes.


The Basse Corniche (Lowest Road)

The Basse Corniche is a coastal road (N98) that is often clogged with traffic. Lined with 19th-century villas and gardens, it meanders by seaside resorts such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-John Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Eze-Bord-de-Mer, Cap d'Ail, Monaco and Cap Martin.


Area Highlights


The ancient village of Eze, with its fabulous views over St Jean-Cap Ferrat, captures the appeal of the Cote d'Azur. Perched on rock 1,400 feet above sea level, the village centers on the ruins of a 12th-century castle, a testament to centuries of occupation, from the Romans and the Moors to the House of Savoy. Its labyrinthine streets, offer views over bougainvillea-wrapped villas that lead down the hillside to the Mediterranean.


Known for its beaches, museums, nightlife, shopping and fine dining. Full of fun and activities all year round.

Must see: The Old Town, Promenade des Anglais


Visit the Prince's Palace, the Exotic Gardens and, by all means sample the unrivaled nightlife. Don't miss Monte Carlo.


Known for, but more than, the Film Festival. Posseses an air of moneyed elegance. Yachts anchored offshore, designer stores. Experience old Cannes by alking up the Le Suquet hill.

Should see: La Croisette.


A small-town in Provence. Sandy Pampelonne beach is paparazzi heaven, closely followed by the former fishing village's sizzling nightlife.

Should see: The Old Port.

Train de Pignes

Sit back and enjoy the swirl of Mediterranean scenery as this train chugs through the Var valley. Disembark if you wish to explore the medieval villages. Don't miss the steam engine that makes a circuit summer weekends.


This walled city located on top of a hill is tourity but worth a visit. Fantastic views. Don't miss the Fondation Maeght, a first-rate museum of contemporary art.

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