Nestled in the picturesque hills of the Pays de Fayence, Montauroux offers an ideal, central base for exploring the French Riviera. This charming perched village provides a tranquil retreat with its narrow streets, stunning views, and local charm. From Montauroux, you can easily embark on a variety of day-trips to some of the most beautiful and exciting destinations in the region. Here are the five best day-trips to consider:
1. Cannes: Glamour and Beaches
A mere 30-minute drive from Montauroux, Cannes is synonymous with glamour, luxury, and the world-famous film festival. Start your day with a leisurely stroll along La Croisette, the iconic waterfront promenade lined with upscale boutiques, cafes, and grand hotels. Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where the Cannes Film Festival takes place each year, and take a photo on the famous red carpet steps.
For a dose of culture, explore the Le Suquet district, Cannes’ old town, with its narrow streets, charming houses, and panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the Musée de la Castre, housed in a medieval castle, offering fascinating exhibits and breathtaking views.
In the afternoon, relax on one of Cannes’ beautiful public beaches or take a short boat trip to the Lérins Islands, where you can enjoy the tranquil nature, clear waters, and historical sites.
2. Nice: Art, Culture, and Cuisine
Just an hour’s drive from Montauroux, Nice is a vibrant city known for its art, culture, and cuisine. Begin your day at the Promenade des Anglais, a stunning seaside promenade perfect for a morning walk or bike ride. Head to the Old Town (Vieux Nice) to explore its narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings, and bustling markets.
Visit the Cours Saleya market, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall, both showcasing the works of these renowned artists who were inspired by the beauty of Nice.
For lunch, indulge in some traditional Niçoise cuisine at a local bistro, trying dishes like salade niçoise, socca, and pissaladière. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin Albert 1er or climb to the Colline du Château for panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Angels.
3. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Art and History
A 45-minute drive from Montauroux, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the oldest and most picturesque medieval towns on the French Riviera. Known for its artistic heritage, this charming village has been a haven for artists and writers for decades.
Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Visit the Fondation Maeght, a contemporary art museum featuring works by artists such as Miró, Giacometti, and Chagall. The museum’s beautiful gardens are adorned with sculptures, providing a peaceful retreat for art lovers.
Explore the village’s historical sites, including the 12th-century Collegiate Church and the 16th-century ramparts, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the village’s many charming restaurants, savoring the flavors of Provençal cuisine.
4. Antibes: Beaches and History
An hour’s drive from Montauroux, Antibes is a delightful coastal town with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Start your day at the Port Vauban, one of the largest marinas in Europe, where you can admire the luxurious yachts and visit the nearby Fort Carré, a 16th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean.
Stroll through the old town of Antibes, with its narrow streets, bustling markets, and charming squares. Visit the Picasso Museum, housed in the Château Grimaldi, where Picasso lived and worked for a time. The museum features an impressive collection of his works, as well as pieces by other contemporary artists.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on one of Antibes’ beautiful beaches, such as Plage de la Salis or Plage du Ponteil, or take a scenic walk along the Cap d’Antibes coastal path, offering stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
5. Grasse: Perfume and Gardens
A 30-minute drive from Montauroux, Grasse is the perfume capital of the world, known for its fragrance industry and beautiful gardens. Begin your day with a visit to one of the town’s famous perfume factories, such as Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard, where you can learn about the perfume-making process and create your own custom scent.
Stroll through the old town of Grasse, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and charming squares. Visit the Musée International de la Parfumerie, which offers a fascinating look at the history and art of perfume-making.
In the afternoon, explore the beautiful gardens of Grasse, such as the Jardins de la Princesse Pauline and the Jardins de la Villa Fort France. These lush, fragrant gardens provide a peaceful retreat and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Monaco: Luxury and Glamour
An hour and a half from Montauroux, Monaco is a tiny principality known for its luxury and glamour. Start your day at the Prince’s Palace, the official residence of the Prince of Monaco, and watch the changing of the guard ceremony. Explore the old town, Monaco-Ville, with its narrow streets, historical buildings, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Visit the Oceanographic Museum, an impressive building overlooking the sea, featuring a vast collection of marine life and exhibits on oceanography. In the afternoon, stroll through the exotic gardens of Monaco, such as the Jardin Exotique, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea.
7. Eze: Medieval Charm
A 45-minute drive from Montauroux, the village of Eze offers a delightful mix of medieval charm and stunning views. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Eze is known for its narrow, winding streets, beautiful stone buildings, and lush gardens.
Visit the Jardin Exotique, a beautiful garden filled with exotic plants and sculptures, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Explore the old town, with its art galleries, boutiques, and charming cafes. For a unique experience, hike up the Nietzsche Path, a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
8. Lac de Saint-Cassien: Nature and Relaxation
Just a short drive from Montauroux, Lac de Saint-Cassien is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. Perfect for a day of relaxation and outdoor activities, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot by the water, or explore the scenic hiking and biking trails that surround the lake. The calm and peaceful environment makes it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers.
Where to Stay
Haute Vue is a pet friendly holiday home in Montauroux with panoramic views, just four minutes walk from the central village square and restaurants. Montauroux is one of the most beautiful of the ‘perched villages’ of the Pays de Fayence. With private infinity pool, super-fast WiFi and modern air-conditioning, this large luxury villa sleeps 10/12 in 5/6 bedrooms. Available to book on all the leading OTAs – including Booking.com, AirBnB, and VRBO – the property also features in the Plum Guide and on Stay One, covering the top 1-2% of rental properties in the area. The best prices (saving 10% or more) are always available by booking direct, using their secure Lodgify booking engine and encrypted Stripe payment gateway. They also run a Blog featuring local events in Provence and other things to do on the Riviera.
Final Thoughts
Montauroux, with its central location and charming atmosphere, serves as an excellent base for exploring the French Riviera. From glamorous coastal cities to picturesque medieval villages, there is no shortage of incredible day-trips to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking culture, history, luxury, or natural beauty, these five destinations offer something for everyone, ensuring a memorable and diverse experience on the French Riviera.