The Côte d’Azur by Private Jet: Looking Beyond the Headlines

There are few coastlines as recognisable as the Côte d’Azur. Mention the French Riviera and many people think of Monaco, Cannes or Saint-Tropez. They’re all worth visiting, but they only tell part of the story.

Some of the Riviera’s greatest pleasures are found a little further along the coast or a short drive inland. There are many beautiful quiet harbours, exceptionally stunning gardens, hidden hilltop villages and wonderful restaurants overlooking the Mediterranean. All offer you the moments you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.

Flying privately makes exploring the region particularly straightforward. Whether you’re landing in Nice, Cannes or Monaco, you’re never far from the next stop on your itinerary.

Villages to explore

One of the Riviera’s greatest strengths is its variety. Within half an hour you can leave the coastline behind and find yourself in villages that have changed remarkably little over the years.

Saint-Paul de Vence remains one of the region’s most rewarding places to explore. Artists, writers and collectors have been drawn here for decades, yet it has never lost its character. Wander the narrow streets, browse independent galleries and settle in for a leisurely lunch before continuing your journey.

Nearby Vence offers another reason to pause. Henri Matisse’s Chapelle du Rosaire is surprisingly modest from the outside, but inside, the coloured light created by the stained-glass windows transforms the space completely. It remains one of the artist’s most personal achievements.

Èze offers a different perspective altogether. Perched high above the Mediterranean, its medieval streets eventually lead to the Jardin Exotique, where the coastline stretches from Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat towards Italy on a clear day.

Along the waterfront

The Riviera’s smaller harbours often prove every bit as enjoyable as its famous marinas.

Villefranche-sur-Mer has one of the most attractive natural bays on the coast. Colourful waterfront buildings, relaxed cafés and fishing boats create a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a glass of local wine and seafood freshly caught earlier in the day.

A few minutes away, Beaulieu-sur-Mer has a quieter elegance. Spend an afternoon walking the promenade, enjoy a flavoursome lunch overlooking the marina or simply watch the boats come and go.

For those with more time, chartering a yacht or spending a day on the water offers an entirely different view of the coastline. Hidden coves, quiet anchorages and secluded swimming spots are often inaccessible by road and are among the Riviera’s best-kept pleasures.

The Gardens at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is one of those places that always exceeds expectations.

Built on the highest point of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the villa is surrounded by nine themed gardens, each with its own character. The formal French gardens are beautifully maintained, while the panoramic views across both sides of the peninsula are reason enough to visit.

It’s easy to spend several unhurried hours here before continuing to lunch in Beaulieu-sur-Mer or along the coast.

Markets, galleries and long lunches

The Côte d’Azur invites curiosity.

Browse the Provençal market in Antibes before exploring the old town. Stop for coffee in a shaded square. Discover a gallery, wander the cobbled streets. Extend lunch – conversation and wine flows in places like this!

Enjoy making time for friends, family and yourself.

When to visit

The Riviera can be busy during July and August around the major resorts. But getting off the beaten track means you can avoid the crowds.

May, June and September offer a good balance of warm weather, open restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere. During these months the sea is still ideal for yachting, the roads are quieter and there’s more opportunity to enjoy larger resorts at your own pace.

Autumn also brings several notable events, including the Monaco Yacht Show, making September an excellent time to combine business with a few extra days on the coast.

Flying privately to the Côte d’Azur

Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, Cannes Mandelieu, St Tropez La Mole and Monaco all provide convenient access depending on your plans.

From any of the above it’s easy to continue by helicopter, yacht transfer or chauffeur to your hotel, villa or yacht.