tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308511825980714152023-06-20T08:52:14.260-04:00French Riviera Vacation 2008French Riviera or the Côte d’Azur or the South of France...whatever name you use, it is fantastic!F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-62344789599179837962008-05-20T17:38:00.005-04:002008-08-11T14:55:30.747-04:00Start the TourPlease begin the blog at the beginning of our French Riviera vacation with <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/overview-basics-of-vacation.html">Overview: Vacation Basics</a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199070824958404834"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPXpO-KOI/AAAAAAAADeg/Ma-XMw35rcI/s800/CapFerrat_0003.jpg" /></a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-26794731173320764562008-05-20T15:07:00.003-04:002008-05-20T16:34:14.371-04:00The Road to Saint-TropezHaving enjoyed Thursday's long, beautiful hike we were ready to strike out again for Saint-Tropez. We wanted to see more of the village and then drive around the peninsula to see the land and the distances for the other coastal hikes. We decided not to try to do another long hike. This last full day would be for sightseeing.<br /><br />We left Mougins and headed down the A8 to the Le Muys exit for Saint-Tropez. Everything was great until we got to Saint Maxime. Then, traffic was at a standstill. Comparing Friday to Thursday, was so different! The traffic was almost non-existent on Thursday. After one hour of sitting in traffic, we turned around and decided to make the most of the day by driving back up the scenic N98 coastal highway to St. Aygulf and the Villepey Lagoons. <br /><br />We stopped along the coast for a nice lunch, then continued on. The Villepay Lagoons are across the street from the beach. We could see some of the beautiful birds, the easy boardwalk paths, but decided not to take the hike. We just enjoyed driving the coast again on our last day and headed back to Mougins in time for dinner in the old village.<br /><br />THE END<br />RETURN TO FIRST ENTRY: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/overview-basics-of-vacation.html">Overview: The Basics</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-28799058527650896412008-05-20T14:29:00.005-04:002009-04-02T09:18:53.702-04:00Saint-Tropez peninsula: Another favorite hikeOur expectations of Saint-Tropez were dashed. In a good way! We expected modern, high rise, glitzy. Instead, we found a quaint village. Yes, there are upscale stores. However, the village and harbor are quite charming. We see the reason why this is such a favorite destination. We parked in paid parking near the harbor. We arrived before 9:00am on a Thursday morning before the crowds. <br /><br />We were there to hike, so off we went in search of the trails described in <em>26 Gorgeous Hikes on the Western Cote d'Azur</em>. <br /><br />We stopped off at the tourist information office to get a detailed map and ask whether the restaurant at Salins Beach (Plage des Salins) would be open. They called, but no one answered. So, we stopped off at a take out place and bought sandwiches and chips. We had brought a large bottle of water and some nuts. You can get sugar coated peanuts in many places, but we bought a large jar at the grocery and then packed a small amount in a plastic bag for hiking. Again, we had our day pack and good hiking shoes. We also wore lightweight hiking pants for this one due to the warmer temps (70s F).<br /><br />We found the trailhead at the Portalet Tower, but then the trail jagged back into town a bit. We missed that little spur and found ourselves on <em>very difficult</em> coastal rocks. We realized our mistake and climbed straight up the rocks to the cemetery to pick up the marked trail.<br /><br />Back on track, we continued on the sentier littoral on the Saint-Tropez peninsula. There were no handrails on this trail. The terrain was varied. It could be rock, sandy beaches or shaded (and muddy) paths. It could be steep or flat. Narrow or wide. Scary or safe. <br /><br />The only certainty was 5.2 miles of hiking on the first leg to Plage des Salins!<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162612704490274"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCci2ZO-MyI/AAAAAAAAD1g/6ceIWcoBdbI/s800/StTropezHike_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162629884359474"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCci3ZO-MzI/AAAAAAAAD1o/BbRGnZQMNeM/s800/StTropezHike_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162664244097858"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCci5ZO-M0I/AAAAAAAAD1w/7R-suTvhkis/s800/StTropezHike_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162702898803554"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCci7pO-M2I/AAAAAAAAD2A/bUd6rniQ5HA/s800/StTropezHike_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162720078672754"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCci8pO-M3I/AAAAAAAAD2I/MPVY-haqHX4/s800/StTropezHike_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162874697495506"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjFpO-M9I/AAAAAAAAD24/qgqlDMm-jKY/s800/StTropezHike_0012.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162887582397410"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjGZO-M-I/AAAAAAAAD3A/mLrub9ma7Ss/s800/StTropezHike_0013.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162904762266610"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjHZO-M_I/AAAAAAAAD3I/sUw5IL3ZmQk/s800/StTropezHike_0014.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162930532070402"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjI5O-NAI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/wagtGtzwp6U/s800/StTropezHike_0015.jpg" /></a><br /><br />A great lunch spot at Pointe de la Rabiou:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199163016431416386"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjN5O-NEI/AAAAAAAAD3w/_Ha0qb3XVXQ/s800/StTropezHike_0019.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199162952006906898"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjKJO-NBI/AAAAAAAAD3Y/c5FAC31LnG4/s800/StTropezHike_0016.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The restaurant at Plage des Salins had just opened that day. It was too crowded for us, so we bought some cold water. We found out that there were no buses running back to town, so after a bit of rest, we decided not to continue on the hike to Tahiti Beach, but to hike the road back to Saint-Tropez. We're not exactly sure of the distance, but it seemed like 3-4 miles back to our car! <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199163029316318290"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcjOpO-NFI/AAAAAAAAD34/iWORf3rnkY8/s800/StTropezHike_0020.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We enjoyed the hike immensely. Walking along the road back to town, we also enjoyed the fact that with resorts/villas on one side of the road, there were vineyards and little farms on the other side of the road. The land was flat enough to make the road walk fairly easy, though long. <br /><br />We decided to try to come back on Friday to check out the other hikes.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/road-to-saint-tropez.html">The Road to Saint-Tropez</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-67486475326667884092008-05-20T14:15:00.003-04:002008-05-20T16:32:10.142-04:00Gourdon, Tourettes-sur-Loop, Haute de CagnesAfter some spectacular coastal drives and walks/hikes, we decided to head for the hills. Gourdon is a 40 minute drive from Mougin. We had already seen St. Paul de Vence, so we planned to include Tourettes-sur-Loop and Haute de Cagnes.<br /><br />We didn't really "do" anything except make the scenic drive with stops in these villages. Being mid-week in the shoulder season, there were no crowds. For us, it is all about being in these places.<br /><br /><strong>Gourdon:</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199150857379000466"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYKJO-MJI/AAAAAAAADv8/zEDI9NJt8gc/s800/Gourdon_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199150883148804258"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYLpO-MKI/AAAAAAAADwE/nniXP1pleJA/s800/Gourdon_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199150981933052130"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYRZO-MOI/AAAAAAAADwk/J8zejGoIzXA/s800/Gourdon_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151007702855922"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYS5O-MPI/AAAAAAAADws/lbhKy-A1FT8/s800/Gourdon_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151054947496210"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYVpO-MRI/AAAAAAAADw8/q4_cswuYnAI/s800/Gourdon_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We enjoyed a nice little lunch outdoors in <strong>Tourettes-sur-Loop</strong>. The market was just closing down when we arrived. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151347005272546"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYmpO-MeI/AAAAAAAADyk/Q942yGQqVBg/s800/Tourettes_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151372775076338"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYoJO-MfI/AAAAAAAADys/erGc_99urv8/s800/Tourettes_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151398544880130"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYppO-MgI/AAAAAAAADy0/QZfcRsVYNMM/s800/Tourettes_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151420019716626"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYq5O-MhI/AAAAAAAADy8/UgtFR8ShdZY/s800/Tourettes_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151445789520418"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYsZO-MiI/AAAAAAAADzE/aoQkIlTQ5cY/s800/Tourettes_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151527393899090"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYxJO-MlI/AAAAAAAADzc/33Hum7bfUMA/s800/Tourettes_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Haute de Cagnes </strong>(near Cagnes-sur-Mer):<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151218156253570"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYfJO-MYI/AAAAAAAADx0/-AA0dOZ68Yc/s800/CagnesHaute_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151239631090066"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYgZO-MZI/AAAAAAAADx8/n6nW_o1s8q4/s800/CagnesHaute_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151273990828466"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYiZO-MbI/AAAAAAAADyM/UTU4zthGrMk/s800/CagnesHaute_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151304055599554"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcYkJO-McI/AAAAAAAADyU/dIXlyWqWSe0/s800/CagnesHaute_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/saint-tropez-peninsula-another-favorite.html">Saint-Tropez: Another Favorite Hike</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-75835778876380494302008-05-20T13:22:00.006-04:002008-05-20T19:49:50.962-04:00La Corniche d'Or: Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël to CannesWe decided to head west to check out the routes to some hikes in the book, <em>26 Gorgeous Hikes on the Western Cote d'Azur</em>.<br /><br />From Mougins, we took the A8 to the exit at les Adrets-de-l'Esterel. The road intersected with the N7 that goes past Mt Vinaigre (one of the hikes mentioned in the book). Since we were scoping out driving distances/time, we continued on to Fréjus in search of Pic du Cap Roux and Pic de l'Ours (more hikes in the book).<br /><br />When we got to Fréjus, it was almost time for lunch. We took advantage of the free parking next to the beach at Fréjus. The beach is very pretty there, sandy and well-maintained with planted palm trees, gardens, walkways and arbors. There are also historic sites in the old town, but seeing such wasn't a focus of our trip.<br /><br />The pretty beach at Fréjus:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149251061231410"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcWspO-LzI/AAAAAAAADsw/pN1AWG0yNTo/s800/FrejusRaphael_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Harborside lunch of croque monsieur (grilled ham and gruyere sandwich) with pommes frites (fries).<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149272536067906"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcWt5O-L0I/AAAAAAAADs4/kA6riTFzkm0/s800/FrejusRaphael_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149289715937106"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcWu5O-L1I/AAAAAAAADtA/qJT0a4IrEOg/s800/FrejusRaphael_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After our leisurely lunch break, we headed toward Saint-Raphaël on the N98. The road section along N98, La Corniche d'Or, links Saint-Raphaël to Cannes. The road was opened in 1903 by the Touring Club de France.<br /><br />Another roadside pause in Saint-Raphaël to look around. We could envision staying awhile in the area.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149311190773602"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcWwJO-L2I/AAAAAAAADtI/9n_Kuz8uGx0/s800/FrejusRaphael_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149354140446594"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcWypO-L4I/AAAAAAAADtY/dGu8CIwTipI/s800/FrejusRaphael_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The popular game of boules:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149384205217682"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW0ZO-L5I/AAAAAAAADtg/h4WFMkFaA-o/s800/FrejusRaphael_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br />This must be Pic de l'Ours?<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149422859923378"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW2pO-L7I/AAAAAAAADtw/gwUclUC-ceU/s800/FrejusRaphael_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We were so sidetracked by the scenic drive and little towns that we decided to forego mountain hikes.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/cap-dantibes-favorite-hike-and-location.html">Cap d'Antibes: A Favorite Hike</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-42753082748909396362008-05-20T12:46:00.006-04:002008-05-20T19:48:23.859-04:00Cap d'Antibes: A Favorite Hike and LocationOur next daytrip from Mougins was to Antibes. We drove down to the harbor and liked what we were seeing of the old town. However, we'd heard about the sentier littoral around the Cap d'Antibes (cape) and wanted to see the trails before seeing the old town.<br /><br />Until we planned this trip to France, I had no idea of the well-documented and well-maintained trails (sentier littoral) available for hiking/walking. Through the Slow Travel Forum, we had gotten some information from AzurAlive, including the book on hiking the western Cote d'Azur.<br /><br />Before heading out to Antibes, I asked our concierge for a map. When I told him we wanted to hike the Cap d'Antibes sentier littoral, he looked a bit appalled. I guess he doesn't get many requests for hiking?<br /><br />At first, we made a wrong turn into a harbor parking lot. This was interesting because we saw the actor, Jude Law, driving a Porsche into the lot when we turned around. We easily found our way out to La Garoupe Plage (the Garoupe beach) to the beginning of the sentier littoral. There is free parking in a lot there along the beach and a few restaurants (some associated with hotels). Arriving early in the day for both the parking and the hiking is advisable. We had coffee at one of the snack bars, then headed out to the trail.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149440039792578"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW3pO-L8I/AAAAAAAADt4/oe3_tnFqqOc/s800/CapAntibes_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I must tell you that we were awestruck by the beauty of the cape! That's probably an understatement. We fell in love with the landscape and the views.<br /><br />This was more of a hike than a walk. I recommend sturdy walking shoes. We were both in hiking shoes. We had a backpack with water and snacks. The sun was very bright, but the temperatures were warm enough for short sleeves, yet cool enough for comfortable hiking with the lack of humdity. It was very windy, too. Be prepared!<br /><br />There are places on the trail where you must be sure footed. There are warning signs (peril of death) about the surf washing you away into the sea. There are places on the trail where a person with balance problems or a fear of height may be challenged. In fact, it would be extremely dangerous had the French not gone to the trouble of installing railing along the trails! That said...it was fabulous and we'd hike it again and again!<br /><br />At first, the hike starts out very easy:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149461514629074"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW45O-L9I/AAAAAAAADuA/WYVIqKJlAB0/s800/CapAntibes_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149482989465570"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW6JO-L-I/AAAAAAAADuI/ToXIfStUMu0/s800/CapAntibes_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br />And fragrant with the blooms of pittosporum and other flowers:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149508759269362"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW7pO-L_I/AAAAAAAADuQ/VicWAjpSd9o/s800/CapAntibes_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149530234105858"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcW85O-MAI/AAAAAAAADuY/u_EsuP3etpU/s800/CapAntibes_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br />You walk past fabulous gardens and villas along the way. There are cameras, guard dogs and other deterrents along these properties of the rich and famous.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149586068680738"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcXAJO-MCI/AAAAAAAADuo/PCPGtnbARQg/s800/CapAntibes_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149706327765090"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcXHJO-MGI/AAAAAAAADvI/Ak2xieCUil4/s800/CapAntibes_0011.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Then, the trail gets really interesting as you look down the cliffs into the sea:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149616133451826"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcXB5O-MDI/AAAAAAAADuw/1sT89T-JezM/s800/CapAntibes_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Fortunately, there are some climbs that have been made safer by the installation of stone steps and railings:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149641903255618"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcXDZO-MEI/AAAAAAAADu4/25P8Y3-sfWo/s800/CapAntibes_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The terrain is both breathtaking and intimidating ...all the way around the coast:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199149667673059410"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcXE5O-MFI/AAAAAAAADvA/8rsyRSg2LQE/s800/CapAntibes_0010.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Once you finish the sentier littoral, you'll come out to a paved road that leads back to La Garoupe. Walking through the little roads, you're surrounded by villa walls. Once in awhile, you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful homes and gardens. It is quiet. It is shady. It is peaceful. It is very easy to see the appeal. As we were walking through town, my husband went into a few small hotels to chat with them about their rooms/rates (for future plans). He also picked up some real estate brochures (just for fun).<br /><br />The beach at La Garoupe is sandy and nice. We had a fantastic lunch at <strong>La Rocher</strong>, a little "snack restaurant" beside the beach. We had delicious salads with beef strips and veggies with a side of pommes frites (French fries). A good portion of wine and water, topped off by a shared ice cream sundae concoction. The food was more like a gourmet restaurant than a snack place. Yet, the prices were very reasonable with huge portions of fresh food.<br /><br />At the end of our meal, we sat by the beach for a very long time. We felt like we'd found the perfect paradise...great trails, great food, beautiful views...ah!<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/gourdon-tourettes-sur-loop-haute-de.html">Gourdon, Tourettes-sur-Loop, Haute de Cagnes</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-57588742232722416792008-05-20T12:13:00.004-04:002008-05-20T16:28:22.978-04:00les Îles de Lérins: Peaceful island walks near CannesOn Sunday, May 4th, we walked from our Mougins apartment down to the patisserie for a pain au chocolat (chocolate croissant) and cappucino. The bus stop for Cannes is right in front of the patisserie. We decided to take the bus (1 Euro each way) rather than pay for parking in Cannes. As mentioned before, the buses in this region of France are modern, clean and comfortable...but, you may have to stand up when it is crowded. This was an easy 20 minute trip. <br /><br />Once in Cannes, we headed toward the water but found that all kinds of preparations were underway for the film festival. We took a few tacky tourist photos and decided to head down to the ferry port to get out on to an island (les Îles de Lérins are located just off of Cannes).<br /><br />A ferry to St. Marguerite was ready to leave and we quickly bought our tickets (12 Euros round-trip) and hurried aboard. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081240254099186"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbY15O-LvI/AAAAAAAADr4/zk8xPNDe5lk/s800/StMarguerite_0010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081077045341794"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYsZO-LmI/AAAAAAAADqw/5xhTGT2lG1M/s800/StMarguerite_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Going to St. Marguerite is about getting away to quiet strolling paths, beautiful views, pretty flora and beaches. There is little on the island other than the remains of a prison (Man in the Iron Mask), a couple of places for food, and the rest is park-like with fabulous pathways. We were there for walking the paths. You don't need serious hiking gear for these paths. I wore my Keen mules (no socks), a skirt (skort, actually) and did just fine. Most folks were in shorts with their swimsuits underneath, walking in all kinds of fancy sandals down to flip-flops. It was a Sunday and the island was clearly an outing destination for French families.<br /><br />We picked up sandwich jambon cru for a picnic lunch. We decided to check out the prison first (free on Sunday), then find our way through the labryinth of paths that crisscross the island...there are many choices.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081115700047490"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYupO-LoI/AAAAAAAADrA/zGsF8CUpr2U/s800/StMarguerite_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081137174883986"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYv5O-LpI/AAAAAAAADrI/PyYLIwGe9nE/s800/StMarguerite_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081150059785890"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYwpO-LqI/AAAAAAAADrQ/FXtfrJi_o54/s800/StMarguerite_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081158649720498"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYxJO-LrI/AAAAAAAADrY/rqNDvuaOz_k/s800/StMarguerite_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081180124556994"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYyZO-LsI/AAAAAAAADrg/gs_8Dbz3FRE/s800/StMarguerite_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081205894360786"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbYz5O-LtI/AAAAAAAADro/LfYxIh9m2PU/s800/StMarguerite_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081227369197282"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbY1JO-LuI/AAAAAAAADrw/eR62qnTaCks/s800/StMarguerite_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />After a nice, leisurely afternoon around the island, we decided not to wait for the last ferry since the island was full of French families. We took the next to last ferry and saw that many were turned away who arrived at the port too late to get aboard. <br /><br />Docking back in Cannes, we decided to have a nice beverage (and visit the 5 star loo) at the Sofitel Hotel bar. We sat outside, sipping an apertif, and watching the yachts and people. <br /><br />We took a walk through the Cannes market where antiques and art were on display. This wasn't your average market. These were very, very nice...and some very exquisite...items. <br /><br />While we would have liked to linger, we also wanted to catch the "next to last" bus back to Mougins. It was a good choice, too. We made it aboard, but it was very crowded with families carrying beach gear from their Sunday outing. A point to be made...even with the crowded buses, the French were very polite. No pushing, shoving. And, seats were given up to the elderly, handicapped or those with babies and small children.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/la-corniche-dor-frjus-saint-raphal-to.html">La Corniche d'Or coastal drive</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-20280011816498294962008-05-20T11:21:00.005-04:002008-05-20T19:50:42.220-04:00Mougins: our 7 day "home"We selected Mougins mostly due to the availability of an affordable and comfortable apartment (Le Club Mougins). However, we found being near the <strong>Mougins Vieux Village</strong> to be a perfect place for a week-long stay. While we were there for 7 days and took many day trips out to other areas, I'm grouping all of the information and photos of Mougins here.<br /><br />As mentioned in my overview of our trip, our apartment suited us perfectly. We had an easy walk down to the grocery, a little patisserie and the bus stop to Cannes. There is also a little l'emporter (take out) restaurant just outside the grocery where homemade meals like roasted chicken, veggies and pastas such as lasagne were available for very few Euros. We stocked our dorm-size fridge with juice, wine, milk, water and so forth. Our apartment folks had left us with starter groceries consisting of a large bottle of water, milk, coffee and tea. Having our breakfast in the apartment daily was not only a cost savings, but time savings. <br /><br />If you web search information about Mougins, you'll find that it is renowned for great restaurants. We had three meals in village restaurants. On other occasions, we either ate during our day excursions or had meals at the apartment.<br /><br />We had two evening meals at <strong>Resto des Arts</strong>. The three-course 25E fixed price menu offered a nice selection of Provencal specialties. The soupe au pistou (a veggie soup with pesto) was a perfect, yet almost too filling, appetizer. My husband also tried a goat cheese salad as an appetizer. The filet de boeuf (beef filet) was very good. It was served with au gratin potatoes and a wonderful aux jus. My husband raved about the filet de loop (sea bass) served with a light, basil cream sauce. For me, the highlight was the plate of petite farcis a la provencale (stuffed Provencal veggies). The desserts were, as expected, just divine. The desserts vary, but we can recommend either the chocolate cake, apple tart or chocolate mousse.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081257433968386"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbY25O-LwI/AAAAAAAADsA/J_Cdn9Q_Nrg/s800/Mougins_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081278908804882"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbY4JO-LxI/AAAAAAAADsI/C1jgSK9h9qs/s800/Mougins_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br />One evening, a local soiree took place. The locals came out, dressed in white, to sample appetizers and wine setup outside the restaurants. A jazz band played, some boules were played and it looked like a grand time for all.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151712077492946"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcY75O-MtI/AAAAAAAAD0c/b2TiA41AaZA/s800/Mougins_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151750732198642"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcY-JO-MvI/AAAAAAAAD0s/JaQHf7RZIek/s800/Mougins_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151785091937042"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcZAJO-MxI/AAAAAAAAD1A/IlN9Weg-Y-o/s800/Mougins_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We also dined at <strong>Le Rendez-vous de Mougins</strong>. We had another fantastic three-course meal here at a price of 19 Euros. I enjoyed homemade ricotta raviloli, filet mignon with polenta, ratatouille and gnocci; followed by an awesome chocolate cake. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164463835395442"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckiJO-NXI/AAAAAAAAD6g/9JhNGLR56oI/s800/Mougins_0017.jpg" /></a><br /><br />When we wanted wine, we usually ordered a half bottle. Local wines were very good and less expensive than Diet Coke. I think the only time we had Diet Coke was buying it in a large bottle at the grocer. Otherwise, we ordered Badoit or San Pellegrino sparkling water to go with our meals.<br /><br /><strong><br />There has been much concern about the exchange rate of USD to Euro</strong>. We found the food no more expensive than in the United States...IF you ate local products rather than US products. A three-course gourment meal with wine in our hometown of Chapel Hill usually costs more than what we paid in France. For the price of one glass of nice wine here at home, we could share a half bottle in France.<br /><br />The old village of Mougins, Mougins Vieux Village, is small, pretty, quaint and quiet. It's a pretty place and I think it's that way for the locals, not the tourists. The folks there are very friendly and hospitable. Children play in the tiny streets (closed to traffic except the occasional taxi or delivery). Dogs are a big part of French life. Some provide quite the entertainment such as a little terrier who loved to roll a wine cork to a person for a game of fetch.<br /><br />If you visit Mougins, there is ample free public parking just outside the old village. Mougins is easily accessible from the A8, exit 42, following the signs to Vieux Village.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164219022259394"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckT5O-NMI/AAAAAAAAD5I/ncg_u5XN7vA/s800/Mougins_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151690602656450"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcY6pO-MsI/AAAAAAAAD0U/FLoxH1nJFYg/s800/Mougins_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164244792063186"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckVZO-NNI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/WSFR4_f9XGI/s800/Mougins_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199081296088674082"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbY5JO-LyI/AAAAAAAADsQ/Z6Yksrb3Bj4/s800/Mougins_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151673422787250"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcY5pO-MrI/AAAAAAAAD0M/wDRmjq8NGuM/s800/Mougins_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199151643358016162"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCcY35O-MqI/AAAAAAAAD0E/sry3IVqu4JQ/s800/Mougins_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164274856834274"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckXJO-NOI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/hmAQZcetzv4/s800/Mougins_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164300626638066"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckYpO-NPI/AAAAAAAAD5g/ilXFeAg5-sE/s800/Mougins_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164317806507266"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckZpO-NQI/AAAAAAAAD5o/zgTOKRERlLQ/s800/Mougins_0010.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164343576311058"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckbJO-NRI/AAAAAAAAD5w/yyTO1WMIIgk/s800/Mougins_0011.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199164438065591650"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCckgpO-NWI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/783CkyMpQpI/s800/Mougins_0016.jpg" /></a><br /><br />From our home base in Mougins, we traveled as far west as the St. Tropez peninsula. We took a bus to Cannes. We drove to Cap d'Antibes. We drove to the hill town of Gourdon and the valley town of Tourettes-sur-Loop. Those day trips are covered in separate entries.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/les-les-de-lrins-islands-near-cannes.html">Peaceful Island walks near Cannes</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-22160321084319178202008-05-20T11:03:00.004-04:002008-05-20T16:26:00.129-04:00St. Paul de VenceWe throughly enjoyed our introduction to the French Riviera with our stay in Nice. However, it was time to leave the Hotel Suisse, the Promenade des Anglais and Nice.<br /><br />Carrying our back packs, we walked a few miles through the streets of Nice to the train station to pick up our rental car. We had an easy navigation out of Nice and onto the A8 toward Cannes. However, we decided to take a scenic road up to <strong>St. Paul de Vence </strong>on our way to Mougins. <br /><br />Some folks say that St. Paul de Vence has gone too perfect for tourists with all the shops, galleries and restaurants. Being there in the less crowded shoulder season, we found it to be quite enjoyable. We were taking our leisurely time with an easy scenic drive, and this little stopover made for a great place to lunch. The weather was perfect, the streets weren't crowded and the views were great. <br /><br />From one side of the village walls, we could see the ocean. From another side, we could see the snow in the alps. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072976737021298"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRU5O-LXI/AAAAAAAADoc/ZrShDOjdf4c/s800/StPaul_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073062636367282"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRZ5O-LbI/AAAAAAAADo8/so4yBWziy4I/s800/StPaul_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073225845124642"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRjZO-LiI/AAAAAAAADp4/r2SUbpSyj1k/s800/StPaul_0012.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073247319961138"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRkpO-LjI/AAAAAAAADqA/2je71xoShuE/s800/StPaul_0013.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073273089764930"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRmJO-LkI/AAAAAAAADqI/7wm1zlx-58s/s800/StPaul_0014.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073298859568722"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRnpO-LlI/AAAAAAAADqQ/lQUZWIuDf7g/s800/StPaul_0015.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073105586040274"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRcZO-LdI/AAAAAAAADpQ/6TNv5UXEYYY/s800/StPaul_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br />We found a tiny little restaurant with a perched terrace for lunch. While the tables were tightly packed into the little space, it was still a great choice for delicious fare. I had a wonderful salad and crepe. My husband had the special lasagne and a salad. The restaurant owners were quite friendly and hospitable. We recommend <strong>La Terasse</strong> if you're stopping by St. Paul de Vence.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199073002506825090"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRWZO-LYI/AAAAAAAADok/vVLUJxZTAN8/s800/StPaul_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br />From here, we continued on through scenic roads past Roquefort and Grasse and took a quick little side tour up the Route de Napoleon. This was an afternoon for scenic hill driving until our afternoon check-in time at the apartment in Mougins.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/mougins-our-7-day-home.html">Mougins: Our 7 day "home"</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-18246927794747694152008-05-20T10:12:00.005-04:002008-05-20T16:24:59.484-04:00Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villa Ephrussi, and MentonFrom our base in Nice, we took a bus to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, hopping off at the Villa Ephrussi stop. By the way, the buses are clean, modern and comfortable. They can get crowded as they are a popular and inexpensive means of transportation.<br /><br />Our intention was to get out early (Friday, May 2nd) after breakfast to tour the <a href="http://www.villa-ephrussi.com/en/ephrussi/509-famed_gardens/">Ephrussi gardens and villa</a> before the crowds. This was the only time on our trip that we paid admission to see something beautiful! The rest of our trip was focused on day hiking on the many walking paths, driving along scenic roads and just hanging out in picturesque villages.<br /><br />It was an easy walk uphill from the bus stop to the entrance of the gardens. The views from the Ephrussi were also pretty spectacular. The gardens are divided into sections such as Japanese, Exotic, Florentine, rose, formal, Spanish, etc. <br /><br />I'm including some of the garden photos here. If you want to see more garden photos of the Ephrussi and our trip, please also visit my gardening blog <a href="http://www.definingyourhome.blogspot.com/">Defining Your Home Garden</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199070764828862658"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPUJO-KMI/AAAAAAAADeQ/207_ec8JA4U/s800/CapFerrat_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199070794893633746"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPV5O-KNI/AAAAAAAADeY/ZG6BWoDe-qM/s800/CapFerrat_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199070889382914306"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPbZO-KQI/AAAAAAAADew/PlQS5S-2BlQ/s800/CapFerrat_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199070996757096770"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPhpO-KUI/AAAAAAAADfQ/sNd0h-_NDz4/s800/CapFerrat_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071297404807682"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbPzJO-KgI/AAAAAAAADgw/g0PEfXDbBDo/s800/CapFerrat_0021.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071370419251762"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbP3ZO-KjI/AAAAAAAADhI/aZvlzP8Yfb0/s800/CapFerrat_0024.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071452023630434"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbP8JO-KmI/AAAAAAAADhg/X1b4C0RQpBY/s800/CapFerrat_0027.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071559397812898"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQCZO-KqI/AAAAAAAADiE/YO7gfz4m_-M/s800/CapFerrat_0031.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071602347485890"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQE5O-KsI/AAAAAAAADiU/GcpqywsYb1k/s800/CapFerrat_0033.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071658182060786"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQIJO-KvI/AAAAAAAADis/wBCJxFdSqJ8/s800/CapFerrat_0036.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071688246831890"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQJ5O-KxI/AAAAAAAADi8/7-GZK8Ll5SU/s800/CapFerrat_0038.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071705426701090"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQK5O-KyI/AAAAAAAADjE/inOQIYgu_5k/s800/CapFerrat_0039.jpg" /></a><br /><br />When we finished our visit to the villa, we walked back down to the road, then less than 1/2 mile to the Tourist Information Office. There, we picked up a map and asked about the sentier littoral (walking paths) around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat as well as the location of some restaurants. <br /><br />It was a simple, downhill walk to the harbor on Cap Ferrat. There are numerous restaurants along the harbor that look as closely docked as the many yachts in the water. Fortunately, menus are posted outside all restaurants so that it is an easy thing to "window shop" before you make a choice. We opted for <strong>Le Yacht</strong> based upon the reasonable three-course, fixed price menu (18 Euros) with delicious choices. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071726901537586"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQMJO-KzI/AAAAAAAADjM/rYJFXAQa5NI/s800/CapFerrat_0040.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071761261275986"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQOJO-K1I/AAAAAAAADjc/vC0X-NUwCTU/s800/CapFerrat_0042.jpg" /></a><br /><br />My husband selected a salad with goat cheese and a main plate of seafood with chocolate mousse for dessert. I opted for the Italian caprese salad and spicy arrabiata pasta and tiramisu. We were both delighted with our choices as well as the quality of the food and the service. I must warn you that with the grand view of grand yachts comes the potential for exhaust fumes when a yacht cranks up! <br /><br />After our splendid meal, we easily located the paved sentier littoral to walk around the harbor and up to Beaulieu (all the way to Villa Kerylos, though we didn't go inside).<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071791326047090"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQP5O-K3I/AAAAAAAADjs/Bve5BNb8uMA/s800/CapFerrat_0044.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Walking along the sentier littoral, we came to a beautiful villa right on the water. Just after we passed it, we learned more about the appeal of the villa as it was located at "Place David Niven". We can only assume that the villa must have once been the home to actor David Niven.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199071855750556610"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQTpO-K8I/AAAAAAAADkU/FFk3cSODjyI/s800/CapFerrat_0001_1.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Continuing our walk up to Beaulieu, we first waited at the wrong bus stop for the bus to Menton. The correct stop is in front of Le Metropolitan Hotel (although it didn't look like it was open). The bus was very crowded and it was a Friday afternoon around 2:30pm. The roads became equally crowded and it was at least 4:30pm before we arrived in Menton. Due to the slowness of the traffic, we did not get off the bus to see Monte Carlo/Monaco. We believe this would have been better on a different day, starting in the morning. Lesson learned.<br /><br />There are new and old areas of Menton. Our attempt at touring the old town was frustrating due to the renovation of the tiny streets and houses. We found ourselves walking over plywood and the smell of sewer pipes...we abandoned this tour very quickly. We're sure it will be lovely once the renovation is completed. This was an unavoidable situation that can happen on a trip, so you just have to roll with it and not let a disappointment get in the way of a wonderful vacation. <br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072414096305346"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ0JO-LMI/AAAAAAAADms/paP0g1znitw/s800/Menton_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072431276174546"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ1JO-LNI/AAAAAAAADm0/RXDs2M7P5RM/s800/Menton_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072452751011042"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ2ZO-LOI/AAAAAAAADm8/HWJROhumylY/s800/Menton_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072469930880242"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ3ZO-LPI/AAAAAAAADnE/8mdtYexeh4A/s800/Menton_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072482815782146"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ4JO-LQI/AAAAAAAADnM/9yzfv3MBdME/s800/Menton_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072499995651346"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ5JO-LRI/AAAAAAAADnU/a92lJPbFbbY/s800/Menton_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072525765455138"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ6pO-LSI/AAAAAAAADnc/Ju68oGfcVww/s800/Menton_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072560125193538"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQ8pO-LUI/AAAAAAAADns/vi-J24KpFfE/s800/Menton_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I had to add this photo of French dogs. I think I could easily have done an entire pictorial on the French and their dogs. I truly believe that the French definitely treat their canine companions as family members and seldom leave them at home. It was great fun to see all the dogs throughout the trip. Some were tiny enough to travel in little baskets, others were so large that they had to squeeze themselves carefully under a restaurant table out of the way. All in all, it was delightful to see the dogs around (just watch out where you step; although this problem was kept under control much better than our experience in Paris).<br /><br />Being tired at this point, we took the train back to Nice to shower, nap and then enjoy another nice meal at Le Claire Fontaine and stroll the Promenade des Anglais.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/st-paul-de-vence.html">St Paul de Vence</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-21796272323249936402008-05-20T09:37:00.001-04:002008-05-20T16:23:15.905-04:00Nice, France as a starting pointWe began our vacation by spending two nights in Nice. This made for a wonderful introduction into this area of France as well as a convenient location for access to other coastal villages and places of interest. Bus and train access is frequent and inexpensive. By staying in Nice, we didn't have a need for a car. When we left Nice for Mougins, we picked up our rental car at the train station.<br /><br />When we arrived on May 1st at the Hotel Suisse at the Promenade des Anglais, we were struck by the beauty of the Mediterranean. The water IS as blue as shown in this photo. We had sunny weather in the 60-70 F range with no rain. At night, a light jacket was needed. Our room was small, but very nice, clean and modern. The staff were very kind and we would stay at the Hotel Suisse again.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199069776986384498"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbOapO-KHI/AAAAAAAADdQ/7-34h-mOA98/s800/Nice_0004.jpg" /></a><br /><br />May 1st is a holiday in France so the Promenade was full of folks out strolling, biking, or roller blading. There is a "bike/blade lane" along the wide Promenade. This made for delightful strolls. For those of you planning to visit this area with your male family members...yes, topless sunbathing is completely normal here. <br /><br />Due to the "resort" atmosphere all along the coast, we found that even the French were more casually dressed than what we'd seen on previous trips to Paris and Provence. It was more common than not to see jeans, and even shorts on men and women up to the age of 60. The teenagers and young adults were pretty much dressed like those in the US with Puma or Nike sneakers. Casual sundresses, slacks and spaghetti strap tank tops worn with sneakers or sandals were prevalent on even the more sophisticated looking mature women. It is very easy to blend in with the locals in this region.<br /><br />We had a room overlooking the Promenade. I can't imagine wanting to stay anywhere else. It was worth the two night splurge for the view. Here is a night time photo.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199069794166253698"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbObpO-KII/AAAAAAAADdY/oO7Xv5JJj8A/s800/Nice_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br />The food in Nice seemed to be predominately Italian in influence. There are some fantastic gelato places, too! Pizza and pasta was plentiful and fine. <strong>Le Claire Fontaine</strong>, a restaurant with outdoor seating at Rue Rosetti, served up fine pasta and Nicoise selections. The service was fantastic, although you'll find the tables very close together due to the popularity of this restaurant. I enjoyed a pesto pasta on one night, then opted for a return visit to try a sampler of Nicoise veggies (stuffed zucchini, tomatoes, onions, eggplant). Speaking of veggies, a walk through the market in Nice provided some insight into the freshness of our meals:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072126333496274"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQjZO-K9I/AAAAAAAADk0/YOuMM7NwAG4/s800/Nice_0001.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072164988201970"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQlpO-K_I/AAAAAAAADlE/GGkmb3fiOMk/s800/Nice_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072203642907666"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQn5O-LBI/AAAAAAAADlU/PrwYSM49NBw/s800/Nice_0005.jpg" /></a><br /><br />While on the topic of the Nice market, the flowers were also gorgeous! My husband had to drag me away from all the beautiful bouquets!<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072216527809570"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQopO-LCI/AAAAAAAADlc/5hnMYH8Vc2Y/s800/Nice_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072238002646066"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQp5O-LDI/AAAAAAAADlk/YBqXNUF-Ql8/s800/Nice_0007.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072259477482562"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQrJO-LEI/AAAAAAAADls/1hVvvDNJO-k/s800/Nice_0008.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072280952319058"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQsZO-LFI/AAAAAAAADl0/Gn5nTKHoacc/s800/Nice_0009.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072319607024754"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQupO-LHI/AAAAAAAADmE/CwW3t5KIhag/s800/Nice_0011.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Walking through Old Town is enjoyable, day or night. It's lively, but not too much activity to distract from the enjoyment of being out and about. There are also a few more modern areas that are pleasant, too. I especially enjoyed seeing the architecture around Nice. It would be easy for me to spend more time in this lovely city with friendly people.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072396916436146"><img src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQzJO-LLI/AAAAAAAADmk/uTs2Vctyecc/s800/Nice_0015.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072375441599650"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQx5O-LKI/AAAAAAAADmc/GNuhrD_CC9s/s800/Nice_0014.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072341081861250"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbQv5O-LII/AAAAAAAADmM/-GmRC8OrfEQ/s800/Nice_0012.jpg" /></a><br /><br />During our time in Nice, we took a bus to <strong>Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferat </strong>to visit the Villa Ephrussi gardens. We also had lunch at the harbor, then walked up to Beaulieu to catch a bus to <strong>Menton</strong>. Bus fare was 1 Euro per person, each way. Although, a 4 Euro bus pass worked from Nice to Beaulieu (but not to Menton). A first class train ticket from Menton back to Nice was 6 Euros, although second class seemed just as good on an empty train (this time of year). I'll cover these day trips in other blog entries.<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/saint-jean-cap-ferrat-villa-ephrussi.html">Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-330851182598071415.post-66624082729567149602008-05-20T08:54:00.006-04:002008-05-20T17:40:43.053-04:00Overview: Vacation BasicsOur vacation to the Cote d'Azur was inspired by watching the old movie <em>To Catch a Thief</em> with Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. The scenery looked so beautiful in the movie that we decided to see for ourselves.<br /><br />I want to begin by saying that the French in this region are just SO very, very warm, kind and courteous! The food was great and the scenery was spectacular! Every day that we were out and about, I felt so happy and lively with each experience.<br /><br />It is so difficult to find just the right words to express just how much we loved this trip. I can try, but no words seem sufficient. We've done a lot of traveling. <br /><br />Above all other vacations, this was our favorite. Perhaps it's because we kept the trip simple. We didn't "chase landmarks and museums". We were just "there" to be there and enjoy the people and places. This trip was about the experience, rather than about what we did. Our only real goal was to do some day hiking for fun and to experience the region up close. It may seem boring to some, but for us, it was just perfect! <br /><br />So, I'll just keep the descriptions simple.<br /><br />We began planning this trip in December 2007. The Slow Travel Forum members at <a href="http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums">Slow Travel Talk</a> were a wonderful resource. <br /><br />For our day hiking, we used <a href="http://www.azuralive.com/">AzurAlive</a> as a resource including the purchase of the book on hiking the western Cote d'Azur.<br /><br />On April 30th, we flew on American Airlines from Raleigh Durham Airport to London Heathrow. We connected to a British Airways flight to Nice, France. Having sufficient frequent flier miles for two tickets, the airfare was just the cost of the airport taxes and fees for using the airmiles. In other words, very inexpensive.<br /><br />We arrived in Nice on Thursday, May 1st and took a taxi to the Hotel Suisse, our accomodations for two nights. A bus runs frequently to Nice, but we were tired enough from the overnight fligth that we paid the taxi fare. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.exclusive-hotels.com/hotel-suisse---nice_295.html">Hotel Suisse</a> is located right on the water with a great view of the Promenade des Anglais:<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5199072938082315602"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SCbRSpO-LVI/AAAAAAAADoM/0fWsA8LxVz8/s800/Nice_0002.jpg" /></a><br /><br />From our base in Nice, we took a bus to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat where we toured the gardens at the Villa Ephrussi, had lunch, and walked to Beaulieu where we caught a bus to Menton (it goes through Monaco if you want to hop off there).<br /><br />We also enjoyed our time in Nice. It's a pleasant city and easy to navigate on foot. The train station and bus station provide convenient and inexpensive access to other villages and sites along the coast.<br /><br />On Saturday, May 3rd, we left the Hotel Suisse and walked a few miles to the train station to pickup our rental car. We each had a backpack for luggage, so the walk wasn't difficult for us. We stopped along our walk to have a picnic breakfast on a bench in Place Massena.<br /><br />Our car was a Fiat Bravo from AutoEurope, but at the train station, it was Europecar. Anyway, we were upgraded to a larger 4-door car w/trunk for the same price. It was diesel, which got great mileage for us. Our cost for 7 days rental was $250 USD. Quite a bargain! We dropped the car off at the Nice Airport before the office opened. We recently received a paper copy of our final receipt and there were no extra charges, no surprise. We were very pleased with the car rental experience.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/DefiningYourHome/France2008/photo?authkey=fDBGk_mqf-Y#5202451226213366594"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/DefiningYourHome/SDLR05O-O0I/AAAAAAAAEXQ/ji47pPTv8yI/s800/Car_0003.jpg" /></a><br /><br />By the way, the French in this region did not drive aggressively. We saw very few speeding cars and no irratic driving. There was no horn honking. In fact, we found the drivers to be quite curteous of both pedestrians and other drivers. It was a very safe experience.<br /><br />When we picked up the rental car, we drove to our rental apartment, Le Club Mougins, in Mougins. The apartment was a large 1 bedroom with a kitchenette, bathroom with shower(separate WC), living area with TV, and a great covered balcony with table/chairs and a clothes drying rack. We had a view of the surrounding hills. We were less than a mile from Vieux Village Mougins (the old village at the top of the hill). What the apartment complex lacked in atmosphere, it made up for with convenience to the A8, hill villages, gourmet food, grocery, bus stop, patisserie and modern comforts. <br /><br />The staff at <a href="https://www.diamondresorts.com/ResortFactsheet.aspx?property=LCM">Le Club Mougins</a> were just wonderful! We had concierge services with maps, information, etc. While there was a restaurant at the resort, we never used it. We didn't use the swimming pool nor the gym. We had maid service, which was different from other apartment rentals that we've experienced in Europe. We were able to obtain this rental because we have a Dominican Republic timeshare that is part of Interval International. Le Club Mougins became available as a getaway, meaning that we didn't have to exchange a week at our home resort. The cost of this 7 day accomodation was around $700 USD, including travel insurance. Another bargain! I'm sure this resort charges much, much more through other arrangements. <br /><br />On Saturday, May 10th, we dropped off our rental car at the Nice Airport at 5:30am. We took a British Airways flight to LHR where we connected to an American Airlines flight back to Raleigh Durham Airport.<br /><br />I've organized this blog by village so that readers may select those areas of interest. <br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br />NEXT: <a href="http://tourfrenchriviera.blogspot.com/2008/05/nice-france-as-starting-point.html">Nice, France as a starting point</a>F Cameronhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14558874651743241988noreply@blogger.com