Antibes, Cannes, Grasse, Gourdon, Tourrettes s/Loup, St Paul de Vence
ANTIBES, between modernity and tradition...:It was founded in Roman time (and was a former military garrison) and fell into the hands of the Grimaldi family for a long time. The traditional fishing town then evolved to see its port becoming known as the "billionaires’ quay”: enjoy some free time along it and see the largest and wildest yachts in the world. The medieval old town and its fortifications (16th century) offers a wonderful view over the Bay of Nice and a traditional Provençal covered market. Next to it, the Château Grimaldi houses the Picasso museum which used to be the studio of the famous artist.
Next you will drive on to Cannes along the coastline through the Cap d’Antibes (one of the most exclusive area of the Riviera).CANNES,the Film festival city, a place of glitz and glamour…: Beyond the stir of international conventions and congresses, comes the thrill of holidaymakers dreaming of the Film Festival city, the red carpet and the famous Croisette boulevard where many starts have left their mark. Walk along.Enjoy the view of 5 star hotels, designer shops and soak into the "Hollywood" atmosphere of the Croisette before taking your picture up the famous steps of the Film Festival place.
You will then drive on the toll road to reach GRASSE,perfume factory (free guided visit) - The world capital of perfumes.The world perfume capital’s activity is essentially turned towards international relation. The thirty or so factories actually provide for a global market. From all over the world, raw materials are sent to Grasse to be treated.That is why Grasse has succeeded in making its industry an art, combining luxury, refinement and quality in the products it creates or transforms.This art is perceptible when you visit a perfumery, by creating your own perfume during a workshop or just by strolling along the alleys in the historic center.Fragonard perfume factory opens its doors and offers a free guided tour during which you will enjoy an exciting experience in the mysterious alchemy of scents when discovering the flowers, distillation, “enfleurage”, the perfumer and his creations.
You will then have the option of having lunch in the city (not included).
GOURDON, one of the most beautifl village of France:You will drive up to 700 m (about 2000 feet) above sea level. Try and imagine this unique panorama on the coast and the surrounding valley.The medieval village has kept its atmosphere of bygone days as exemplified by its roman church of the 12th century, traditional Provençal houses and local craft shops.From there you will follow the natural beauties of the Loup valley – waterfalls, cliffs – to reach TOURETTES SUR LOUP, local capital of the violet...The village located on a rocky spur has its houses forming a wall that protects its renowned craft: weaving, pottery, painting, sculptures or jewelry. The city of violets has grown experience into cultivating this flower for more than a century. During your free time, why not try a violet ice-cream, a taste well worth the experience.
A short drive will lead you to the famous hilltop village of ….SAINT PAUL DE VENCE, the second most visited French Village: In the early 1920’s artists started discovering Saint Paul. Painters were forerunners who found an incomparable richness and intensity of light in the peaceful Provençal village. Famous artists such as Paul Signac, Raoul Dufy or Chaïm Soutine will be later joined by Henri Matisse or Pablo Picasso.
The 1950’s and 1960’s represent the golden age of the village which turns into an amazing film set on which could be seen many French and international stars. One of the most famous French actor, Yves Montand, fell in love and got married in St Paul.
This village is nowadays a renowned center of arts whether modern, contemporary, naïf, abstract … You will find the streets to be an open museum where artists such as Folon, César, Niky de Saint-Phalle have their works displayed in the windows of the galleries.
You will have free time to walk along the main street where souvenir shops alternate with art galleries. Why not hop onto a ‘crêpe’ or ice-cream along the way … Do not miss a walk along the ramparts which offers a beautiful view upon the surrounding valley and the coast.