When our Gold Coast (Zürich) and the Swiss Riviera (from Lausanne to Montreux) start getting too cold for a swim, I usually take that as my cue to hit the road — this time, for a solo van trip to the French Riviera.

It’s my fourth time visiting, and I just can’t get enough of this blue coast, especially out of season — for the food, the beaches, the cute little villages you can get lost in, and of course, the wine.

This time, I decided to skip all the fancy spots I already know — Monaco, Cannes, and the big city vibe of Nice. Instead, this blog is all about small villages, wild camping spots and hidden beaches along my favorite stretch of the coast that you must visit on your next trip.

 

A mini guide to Riviera di Ponente – Italy

Driving from Switzerland took me about 4.5 hours to reach my first stop was in Italy: Varazze, where I made a little detour for the best gelato at Gelateria i Giardini di Marzo, ranked No. 1 at the Gelato Festival World Ranking 2022.

Do yourself a favor and try the Bocca di Rosa , white chocolate with rose water.

 

Varazze

If you have a bit more time to explore, I highly recommend the Ligurian west coast of Genoa — the Riviera di Ponente. It’s a stunning stretch where mountains meet the sea, filled with long sandy beaches, charming old towns, and incredible local food.

 

A few of my favorite stops:

• Alassio – for its soft beaches and relaxed seaside promenade.
• Cervo – a picturesque medieval hilltop village with breathtaking sea views.
• Spiaggia Tre Ponti – a beautiful spot near Sanremo, perfect for a quiet swim or surf.
• Sanremo – lively yet full of old-world charm, known for its markets, music, and Riviera atmosphere.
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Just a little detour — but totally worth it if you love coastal drives, hidden beaches, and authentic Ligurian cuisine.

 

Menton – The First Stop After the Italian Border

Known as the “Pearl of France,” Menton is the very first town you reach after crossing the Italian border — and it feels like a gentle bridge between two worlds.

 

Lemons & Sunshine

Menton is one of the warmest places in France and world-famous for its lemons. Every February, the town bursts into color for the Fête du Citron, a lemon festival that fills the streets with bright displays and a citrusy scent in the air.

 

 

How Long to Stay

You can easily enjoy Menton as a day trip, but if you have time, I recommend spending one or two nights to really soak up its relaxed rhythm — slow mornings by the sea, evening walks through the old town, and plenty of time to taste the local cuisine.

Since I was wild camping, I found a perfect spot at La Spiaggetta dei Balzi Rossi — technically a private beach, but arriving in late September, I had it almost all to myself. There was even a shower and parking right by the beach. A little slice of coastal freedom!

 

 

Getting Around

Menton’s Old Town is small and pedestrian-friendly. Everything — beaches, restaurants, boutiques, and hotels — is within walking distance. Be ready for some uphill walks, though! The narrow streets and stairways lead to beautiful viewpoints and quiet corners where you can escape the crowds.

 

Top five things to do:

• Don’t miss the gardens of Menton — the town is full of them! From tropical palms to citrus groves, each garden has its own charm.
• My favorites were the Jardin Serre de la Madone and the Jardin Botanique Exotique du Val Rahmeh, both offering peace and postcard-perfect views.
• MENTON VIEWPOINT, From Sablettes Beach, you’ll see a rocky outcrop that extends into the sea, perfectly facing the Menton waterfront. These rocks are home to the best panoramic views of Menton. The beachy scenery set against the colorful Old Town backdrop is a quintessential European summer postcard.
• LES RAMPES SAINT MICHEL, a bright yellow sea-facing staircase leads up to the Saint Michel from the seaside promenade. This is one of the most iconic sites in Menton.
• Stroll trouch the narrow streets of Menton’s old town, you will find beautiful 17th-century building and authentically french cafés. Two of my favorite streets are the Rue de la Conception and Rue Longue.
• My highlight as a foodie is to  visit  le Marché des Halles , inagurategt  1898, open ever morning from tuesday to sunday,  food to try here:

 

Also very famouse, tarte au citron, is classic lemon pie on a shortbread cookie, a must try!

As you’ll probably tell by the end of this blog, Menton quickly became one of my favorite spots on the Côte d’Azur. There’s something so special about its light, its gardens, and the mix of Italian and French charm that makes it feel instantly like home.

 

I highly recommend saving Menton on your travel list — especially if you visit off-season. Next time I visit, I definitely want to come back for the Fête du Citron, Menton’s legendary Lemon Festival that takes place every February, right at the end of winter.

The next one, Fête du Citron 2026, will be held from February 14th to March 1st, 2026 — and it’s already on my list!

Eze – 12th-century medieval village

 

This village is a perfect half-day trip, it’s the kind of place that looks straight out of a painting — cobbled lanes, stone arches, and views that sweep from the Mediterranean to the mountains. Because it’s quite small, I think Èze is best combined with another nearby stop like Beaulieu-sur-Mer or Villefranche-sur-Mer, both just minutes away by bus or train. Parking was difficult, but i make it.

 

What to See and Do

Once you arrive, you’ll immediately notice the charming medieval streets winding up the hill. It’s worth taking your time to wander through the art galleries and little boutiques before heading to the village’s main attraction — the Jardin Exotique d’Èze (Exotic Garden, 8 EUR for the entry).

Treat yourself to a meal at La Chèvre d’Or or a drin Chateau Eza, both offering breathtaking terraces overlooking the sea. The food is refined but relaxed, and the service friendly.

Tips for Visiting

• Combine it with a stop in Beaulieu-sur-Mer for a swim, or Villefranche-sur-Mer for a seaside drink.

• Èze is quite compact, so a few hours are enough to see it all without rushing.

• It can get very crowded during the day — early mornings or late afternoons are more peaceful.

• Wear comfortable shoes; the streets are steep and uneven.

 

 

Beaulieu sur Mere

 

The name Beaulieu literally means “beautiful place” in French — and it lives up to it. This charming seaside town is known for its calm elegance, palm-lined streets, and old-world Mediterranean charm. It’s less crowded than its glamorous neighbors, offering a more authentic Riviera experience.

 

One of the highlights here is the Marché de Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a vibrant local market filled with the aromas of Italian and Provençal flavors. You’ll find everything from freshly baked focaccia and ripe tomatoes to handmade soaps and colorful flowers. The market reflects the town’s unique location — just a short drive from the Italian border — blending French finesse with Italian warmth.

 

Just around the headland from Beaulieu lies Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, a small, picturesque peninsula often described as one of the most beautiful spots on the French Riviera. If you enjoy a bit of adventure, you might even wild camp nearby (responsibly and discreetly), waking up to the sound of waves and seagulls. The village itself has a cozy little port lined with cafés and restaurants.

 

Around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, you can beach hop between stunning coves like:

• Plage des Fossettes – small, peaceful, and perfect for snorkeling.
• Paloma Beach – elegant and iconic, with dramatic cliffs and turquoise water.

From here, you can walk along the scenic coastal trail (Sentier du Littoral), circling the peninsula with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean at every turn.

 

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Villefranche-sur-Mere 

 

Villefranche-sur-Mer is one of the major ports on the Côte d’Azur and a port of call for numerous cruise ships.

 

Its small, picturesque fishing port, constantly evolving, is also home to a fleet of pleasure boats and pointus (traditional fishing boats). With its majestic shoreline, 16th-century citadel, and colorful facades, Villefranche-sur-Mer has also become a popular destination for painters and artists.

 

We parked for some wild camping down by the Port de la Darse — the perfect spot to take a shower and swim at Plage de la Darse, then enjoy some jazz in the evening at the Trinquette Jazz Club.

 

 

 

A Daytrip in Nice

I recently learned a charming new French word from a local: “chiner.”
It doesn’t have a perfect translation, but it means to hunt for treasures, to wander through flea markets, antique fairs or vintage shops in search of something special.

On Monday, don’t miss the antique market (Marché à la Brocante) at Cours Saleya.
It’s a treasure trove for vintage lovers, with stalls selling everything from antique furniture to retro jewelry and old books. While some items can be pricey, you can still find great bargains if you arrive early and are ready to negotiate. I highly recommend checking out the vintage shops Déco Royal and Mademoiselle — both are full of beautiful, unique finds.

 

As for Nice, I’m not usually a big-city person, but I definitely recommend it.
Do your grocery shopping at Monoprix — they have plenty of fresh French food. Take a stroll along Rue de France and Rue Masséna, where I found lots of cute little shops. And make sure to stop by Amazonia Açaí Nice for an açaí bowl — they even serve pão de queijo and tapioca!

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Grasse – The perfume capital of the wold

Is renowned as the “perfume capital of the world” due to its historic and thriving perfume industry, which includes world-famous houses like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. Nestled in the hills above the French Riviera, the city is known for its specialized training for perfumers (“noses”), the cultivation of fragrant flowers like jasmine and rose, and a charming old town with narrow, medieval streets and squares.

 

Perfume industry and history 
Grasse has been the center of France’s perfume industry since the 17th century, evolving from its trade in scented leather gloves for the aristocracy. Thanks to its unique microclimate, the region grows jasmine, rose, lavender, and orange blossom — still used by major houses like Chanel. It’s also one of the few places in the world where aspiring perfumers train to become professional “noses.

 

The city’s perfume heritage became even more significant in 2018 when its expertise was added to the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage

 

Things to do 

• Visit perfume houses: Explore historic perfume houses like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard to see their ateliers and museums, its Free. 

• Wander the old town: Stroll through the medieval, cobblestoned streets, enjoy the architecture, and visit squares like Place aux Aires and Place des Artistes. 

• Discover local markets: Visit the weekly markets, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays in Place aux Herbes. 

• See the Notre Dame du Puy cathedral: Admire the cathedral, which features works by artists like Rubens and Fragonard. 

 

St. Tropez – Sandy Beaches

 

This town still retains its Provençal charm, with pastel-coloured facades, markets, and a rich maritime history that can be explored in its museums and along the harbour. Today, it is as much about its heritage as it is about its luxurious appeal, blending old-world character with contemporary indulgence. This guide takes you through everything you need to know when visiting Saint-Tropez.

 

From the finest places to stay and the best restaurants to try, to cultural sites, coastal trails, and where to unwind, this expert-curated overview ensures you make the most of your time in this renowned Riviera town. Whether you are visiting for an exclusive getaway or to discover the town’s history and scenic beauty, there is always something to explore in every season.

 

 

What to do in Saint Tropez

Saint-Tropez offers a balance of cultural sites, outdoor activities, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Whether wandering through historic streets, admiring world-class art, or setting out on a coastal walk, there is always something new to discover.

 

Explore the old town

The historic quarter of La Ponche is filled with independent boutiques, artisan workshops, and cobbled streets that lead to hidden courtyards. The Place des Lices market, held every Tuesday and Saturday, offers everything from fresh produce to antiques and handcrafted textiles. Strolling through these streets offers a glimpse into Saint-Tropez’s past, where fishing heritage meets modern-day Provençal elegance.

 

The Citadel of Saint-Tropez

 

Just a 15-minute walk uphill from the town centre, the 17th-century Citadel offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez. It is best visited in the early evening, when the golden sunset light bathes the terracotta rooftops below, making it one of the finest photography spots in the region.
Cap Camarat coastal path This trail leads along rugged cliffs with views over the Mediterranean. It is a rewarding walk for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the region away from the crowds.

 

Les Plages

 

Something I truly love about Saint-Tropez is its sandy beaches — they have this effortless mix of glamor and wild beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere on the French Riviera. If you’re into beach clubs, there’s no shortage of options around Ramatuelle. You’ll find stylish spots like Loulou Beach Club, the lively Nikki Beach, or the legendary Club 55, which has been an icon since the 1950s and still draws artists, locals, and jet-setters alike.

 

But for me, it’s all about the wild beaches. This time, I explored the coast of Ramatuelle, wandering from Crique de la Douane to Plage du Paradis and Plage de Pampelonne. These stretches of sand feel more untouched and authentic — perfect for a quiet swim, a picnic, or just soaking in the crystal-clear water far from the crowds.

Saint-Tropez may be famous for its glitz, but its natural side is what keeps me coming back — golden sands, turquoise waters, and that feeling of freedom only wild beaches can give.

 

Foodie Tip – Saint-Tropez
If you visit the local market, you’ll find so many delicious tarts to try! The one in my picture is one of my favorites — but you definitely have to try the famous Tarte Tropézienne. It’s a soft brioche filled with a dreamy vanilla cream — simple, sweet, and iconic of Saint-Tropez.

And don’t miss Leone’s meringues — said to be the “meilleures meringues du monde” (the best in the world)! Crispy, airy, and perfectly sweet — a true local gem.

For the ultimate experience, grab a few treats from the market and create your own picnic by the beach.

 

 

Places you should not miss if you are here

• Gorges Du Verdon – Grand Canyon of Europe
  rent hier a canoe or paddle board to explore the canyon at your own space
• Lavander Field (June & July ) – Plateau de Valensole or Plateau d’Albion
  
• Moustiers-Stainte-Marie – Voted as the prettiest vialle in all of France
  The village is literally sits beneath sheer cliffs and known as the pottery capital

Map of the most beautifule places of this trip