Villefranche / Beaulieu

Located just a short distance East of Nice and West of Monaco, Villefranche sur Mer is an idyllic and serene fishing village oozing with charm and character. The gorgeous Bay of Villefranche is one of the deepest natural bays in the region, and used to be an important port and a navy base. Today it provides safe anchoring to large boats, a short hop away from the bustling of busier cities. The small old town with its vaulted passages, middle age church and buildings, quaint stores and cobblestones is a wonderful place to wander. The steep pedestrian streets of the medieval old town flow directly to the charming seafront lined up with colorful houses and restaurants. The lovely seafront also hosts an inviting sandy beach, very popular for sunbathing or swimming.
East to Villefranche-sur-Mer, and sheltered between the peninsulas of St Jean Cap Ferrat and Cap Roux is Beaulieu-sur-Mer, a popular yachting destination. The grandeur of the Belle Epoque time still lingers in this classy resort which was once a favorite of the ‘high society’ and European aristocracy, who enjoyed the magnificence of the site. Surrounded by cliffs that protect the town from north winds, Beaulieu is also known for its mild climate that earned it the nickname of ‘Little Africa’. Today, a large marina complex with very good restaurants and a boatyard occupies most of the waterfront.