You could call Schumacher’s president, Benni Frowein, a French Riviera expert. He visits often to enjoy the fresh, pine-tree-infused air; once designed a dreamlike garden in Cap d’Antibes; and counts “Grace of Monaco” starring Nicole Kidman as one of his favorite films. So we asked for his definitive list of what to do, see and eat there.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc
“The luxury choice. It is probably the most spectacular (and iconic) hotel location in Europe, and there’s no better pool or ocean access.”
Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel
“Located on a serene stretch of sandy beach, this comfortable Relais & Châteaux hotel is an ideal place to stay if you’re traveling with children.”
Villa Blanche
“Private houses are available by the week, and I’m partial to the Villa Blanche, a picturesque, 6-bedroom escape.”
Chateau Saint-Martin & Spa
“Away from the coast, Chateau Saint-Martin is tucked into the hills of Vence. It’s a perfectly luxurious getaway for unparalleled views of an idyllic French town.”
WHERE TO EAT
Le Bacon
“Probably the best (and most expensive) bouillabaisse in the world, served al fresco at a gorgeous cafe.”
Eden-Roc Grill
“If you don’t stay at the Hotel du Cap Eden-Roc, make sure to come for an outdoor lunch of fresh, exquisitely prepared seafood at the Eden-Roc Grill.”
La Colombe d’Or
“Time the 30-minute drive to Saint Paul de Vence just right to enjoy a sunset stroll through this medieval hilltop village followed by dinner in its ethereal garden. With art on the walls by artists like Chagall and Picasso, dining inside the restaurant isn’t a terrible alternative.”
Rue Saint Antoine
“A 20-minute drive west along the coast brings you to Rue Saint Antoine, the cutest little alley in Cannes. The bistro-studded hill is original, quaint and fun!”
WHAT TO DO
Plage Keller
“Enjoy an hour-long morning hike along Le Sentier du Littoral trail, which winds through coastal rocks around the cape, and then reward yourself with lunch at Plage Keller. Situated on the west side of Cap d’Antibes, the beach club boasts a stunning backdrop of crystal clear blue water.”
Garoupe Lighthouse
“In addition to breathtaking views of the coast, this quaint landmark offers a little bit of history: the nearby chapel, a protected monument, was built by seafarers centuries ago.”
Nice, France
“Spend an afternoon in the old city of Nice, which is just half an hour up the coast. Stroll through the old town, enjoy a bowl of lavender ice cream and end your day with a meal at La Petite Maison restaurant, which is especially fun on the weekend.”
Provencal Market
“On the weekend, rise early to shop the farmers’ market in the center of the old village of Antibes. I buy all my vegetables and meat there. And nearby, small shops offer locally made goods, from baskets to olive oil.”
L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, France
“Take a 2.5-hour drive to L’Isle sur la Sorgue for the best antique shopping in France. I recommend arriving on a Sunday at 9 am so that you can leisurely stroll through the entire village; it’s one, big open-air market.”