Cagnes-sur-Mer: Hidden Gem in the South of France

Domaine des Collettes

I absolutely loved my visit to Domaine des Collettes, the former home of French impressionist painter Auguste Renoir. Strolling through the gorgeous gardens, I could almost imagine the painter’s inspiration all around me, with ancient olive groves swaying in the sunlight. Inside, I marveled up close at his original works and wandered through the very rooms where he once painted. From the windows, the breathtaking view of the Haut-de-Cagnes hilltop against the turquoise Mediterranean made the whole experience feel like stepping into one of his living canvases.

Haute-de-Cagnes

Perched atop the castle hill, the medieval village of Haut-de-Cagnes has a charm that feels straight out of a fairytale. Wandering its hilly, cobbled lanes and flower-lined staircases, I loved stumbling upon hidden viewpoints and little artists’ studios tucked away like treasures. Every corner seemed to hold a story, making it the kind of place you could happily get lost in for hours… And I did with gorgeous photos to boot!

Chateau Musee Grimaldi

Exploring the 14th century medieval fortress felt like stepping back in time as I wandered through its grand halls and rich history. The best part? That dreamy terrace view over Haut-de-Cagnes and the sparkling Mediterranean out in the distance—the kind of breathtaking view that lingers with you long after you’ve left.

Beaches of the French Riviera

A book, headphones, sunglasses, and a towel—that’s all I needed to soak in the famous views of the Côte d’Azur. It had always been a dream to just relax and bask in the warm French Riviera sun, and it felt even better in person. You can keep your experience simple like mine, or treat yourself to a more luxurious experience with loungers, umbrellas, and cocktail service. Either way, time on these shores is unforgettable, and every moment feels a little like a dream.

Famous lavender fields of Provence

Ahh lavender—who doesn’t love it? Every summer, Provence turns into a living masterpiece, with endless fields of purple stretching under the sun and filling the air with that unforgettable, sweet fragrance. Beyond the postcard-perfect fields, I had so much fun popping into little shops and picking out lavender treasures—from handmade soaps and soothing lotions to room sprays and essential oils—that instantly carried the scent of Provence home with me.

Nice

Nice is pure joie de vivre—stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, dip your toes in the pebbled beaches, and wander through charming boutiques and vibrant markets that make shopping feel like an adventure. Savor classic French cuisine at cozy cafés, then hop over to nearby Monte Carlo, Cannes, or Saint-Tropez for a day of glamour and exploration—it’s the perfect mix of sun, style, and unforgettable Côte d’Azur charm.

Monte-Carlo

Monte-Carlo is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into a movie set, specifically a James Bond movie set—glamorous, sun-soaked, and full of energy. I loved wandering past the glittering yachts in the marina, people-watching at the legendary Place du Casino, and imagining the days of Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. It’s indulgent, a little over-the-top, and yet completely unforgettable—the Riviera at its most dazzling.

Cannes

Cannes has a way of making you feel like a star, even if you’re just strolling along the Boulevard de la Croisette with an ice cream in hand. Between the sparkle of its famous film festival, the glamour of red carpets, and the buzz of designer boutiques and sun-kissed beaches, it’s easy to get swept up in the magic. It’s the Riviera at its most dazzling, but still full of little moments that make you feel right at home.

Provence’s French Impressionist past

Many of France’s great Impressionist painters left behind the bustle of Paris for the golden light and slower rhythms of Provence, where every olive grove and sun-dappled hill became their muse. You might even surprise yourself here—Provence has a way of awakening hidden artistic talents and making you feel like an impressionist painter at heart.

On the French Riviera, seafood is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean itself. I still dream about the smoky tenderness of grilled octopus paired with a perfectly chilled glass of rosé, the briny freshness of oysters enjoyed with sea views, and long, leisurely lunches where every bite feels like summer. From classics like Bouillabaisse and Salade Niçoise to indulgent treats like Tarte Tropézienne, the cuisine here blends elegance, tradition, and a deep love of local flavors in the most unforgettable way.

• Royalmar Hotel Bistromic Restaurant: If you’re looking for a spot that really captures the flavors of the Riviera, this little seaside restaurant is such a gem. I loved starting with the seabass ceviche with mango and red onion, digging into the shrimp linguine, and ending on a playful note with the deconstructed lemon tart—everything was fresh, flavorful, and made with real care.

• Chateau Le Cangard: Château Le Cagnard is an absolute must-try—Soaking in those sweeping views of the Mediterranean from on high while savoring the freshest oysters and mussels is certainly a memorable experience worth having. With a menu that ranges from delicate carpaccio to hearty lamb shank and a dreamy deconstructed lemon cake for dessert, every bite felt like a perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

• Bocca Mar: Bocca Mar quickly became one of my favorite dining spots in Nice—I started with a delicate carpaccio, savored perfectly grilled octopus, and finished with the most delicious tiramisu, all while sipping chilled rosé as the sun set over the Mediterranean. With its breezy, beach-casual vibe, fresh seafood, and the option to linger all day with breakfast, snacks, dinner, or even a beach lounger, it’s truly a must-try along the Promenade des Anglais.

• Chez David: Chez David, tucked atop the hill of Haut-de-Cagnes beneath the looming Château Grimaldi, was the perfect reward after wandering the steep, flower-lined cobbled streets. I savored a refreshing Aperol Spritz with fresh bread and butter, followed by a decadent squid-ink linguine with giant prawns, soaking in the sun and friendly, welcoming atmosphere of this charming outdoor café. Just what I needed to fuel me calorically to go in and tour the Chateau afterwards!

• Le 55: Located right on the Promenade in Cagnes-sur-Mer, was my go-to spot to kick back after a day soaking up the sun. With a small but delicious menu—grilled octopus, shrimp, salmon, or a hearty burger—and refreshing, affordably priced cocktails in hand, it’s the perfect place to watch the waves, feel the sea breeze, and just linger in true Mediterranean style.