Touring in the French Riviera and Corsica

The Cote d'Azur, or the French Riviera, is where the burnished blue of the Mediterranean meets the pastel coloured hotels, sleek marinas and golden sands of the French coast. But travel further and you’ll discover ancient hilltop villages, intoxicating fields of lavender and peaceful countryside. 

Hop on a ferry to the French-owned island of Corsica and another side of France emerges from the far horizon. A land with a proudly preserved history and culture. From coastal citadels to wonderful resorts, this is island living that’s sophisticated and fun in equal measure.

Saint Louis ★★★★

Riviera | South of France

The Riviera is always a good idea. Especially when you can call Saint Louis your home for a few days (or longer!) on this mainland and island adventure. And you don’t have to be dazzled by the glamour of Cannes and its fabled film festival to enjoy the best of the beautiful south. The pine clad valleys and peaceful hillsides just inland from the bustle of the Côte d’Azur are the delightful backdrop to this totally enchanting south of France parc.

With a scatter of sunny pools and lots of watery playgrounds for the kids this is pure holiday heaven. And that sizzling strip of coast, with its beaches, restaurants and shopping is an easy seven kms away. Look the other way, up in the hills, and you’ll find the perfume capital of the world - Grasse. Home to perfumery since the 16th century, there are still around 30 makers here - take a guided tour, or wander the picturesque old town tiny streets wind between 17th and 18th century buildings.

Marina d'Erba Rossa ★★★★

Corsica | South of France

You’re on an island in the middle of the Mediterranean but you are also, very definitely, in France too. Corsica wears its homeland influences very proudly: yes, island living is more easygoing, rustic and timeless: but French cooking, hospitality and je ne sais quoi is everywhere: especially on your beautiful parc. Beautiful beaches meet fabulous protected natural sites, at this Corsican parc overlooking the sea.

The parc is surrounded by swaying palm trees and has a lovely lagoon pool with sea views. You’ll have direct access to a sandy beach too, complete with ice cream parlour. Ghisonaccia, your nearest town, is a small commune on the Corsican coast, enjoying a fabulous, long sandy beach, a cluster of holiday villages, and a string of bars and restaurants overlooking that deep blue Mediterranean.Hiking, wild swimming and boat trips - obligatory. As is lazing by your parc’s pool and enjoying island life, French style. Bliss.