Evocative place names remind us of the historic appeal of the Côte d’Azur. The Promenade des Anglais, magnificent seaside boulevard bordered by Mediterranean palms, was created by the British residents of the City of Nice early in the 19th century as a footpath for the first tourists to meander along the seaside.Queen Victoria spent several winters in the Grand Hotel and the Rothschild family property in Grasse, the city celebrated then and now as the birthplace of the world’s finest perfumes.
How impressed Lord Brougham would be today, he who, in 1834, inspired the English aristocracy to follow him to the sunshine of Cannes, to see the sophisticated resort it has now become. Renowned the world over for its beaches, boutiques, Casinos, the Cannes Film Festival, nightspots, restaurants and year round glamorous events.
Between Nice and Cannes, Antibes, once a Greek, then Roman port, today is proud to possess the largest yacht marina in the Mediterranean. Nestled against the ancient stone ramparts of the old city, with its Provencal Market and winding pedestrian streets, it is filled with charm and colour. Juan les Pins, exciting seaside resort, home to all manner of water sports, bright boutiques, cafés and bars.
Not far from the coast, in the heart of the Provencal countryside the clash of ancient and modern…the Sophia Antipolis high tech park, centre for research and development, University and International schools, all enveloped in greenery and surrounded by golf courses. Nearby, Valbonne, a charming 13th century village overflowing with small restaurants and shops.
The French Riviera coast is peppered with amazing mediaeval hilltop villages such as Mougins, Saint Paul, Eze, Biot and Cagnes. To the west, Saint Tropez with its famous beach clubs, elegant hotels, open air market, port and star studded nightlife.
To the east, Villefranche the ancient deep-water port, Cap Ferrat, Beaulieu and a short distance from the Italian frontier, the Principality of Monaco glittering in the sunshine. The Casinos of Monte Carlo, the Monaco Grand Prix, Somerset Maugham, Grace Kelly, the memories of this world apart are endless. Small wonder the French Riviera is so sought after by visitors the world over.
All this in a benign climate and in an environment of political security.
It is evident that the lure of the French Riviera of yesteryear has nurtured the dreams of the world today and with sound advice and straight forward mortgage facilities many will turn their dreams of a home on the Côte d’Azur into reality.
Buying a home in this beautiful and historic environment is an achievable dream, but as with any property purchase, should not to be undertaken without professional advice. Finding homes of distinction requires uncommon knowledge and resources. The International Company, World Properties and Land, specialises in exclusive luxury properties and would be delighted to help you achieve your dream.
