Welcome to the French Riviera, where luxury, well-being, and breathtaking landscapes come together to create an unforgettable experience. From November 20 to 26, 2017, and March 19 to 25, 2018, sixteen prestigious hotels across Monaco, Nice, Cannes, and beyond are introducing a new winter wellness offer that combines the region’s gentle climate with the perfect setting for rejuvenation and outdoor activities. This exciting initiative, supported by the Côte d’Azur Tourism Board and the Principality of Monaco, is known as the Happy Spa Week Côte d’Azur, and it aims to showcase the region’s finest spas while enhancing the overall appeal of the destination.
Why Visit the Côte d’Azur in Winter?
Do you believe that the golden era of winter retreats along the French Riviera is a thing of the past? Think again! The tourism professionals united under the Regional Tourism Committee (CRT) emphatically state that the Côte d’Azur remains vibrant long after the beach chairs are stored away. There are several compelling reasons why visiting the Côte d’Azur in winter is a truly exceptional experience.- Enchanting Light and Scenic Beauty: During the winter months, the Côte d’Azur basks in a unique and captivating light. The sun casts its gentle glow over the picturesque landscapes, creating a dreamlike ambiance. The azure blue of the Mediterranean Sea contrasts beautifully with the greenery of the surrounding hills and the vibrant colors of the region’s charming towns and villages. Winter is the perfect time to explore the stunning natural beauty of the French Riviera without the crowds, allowing you to truly appreciate its allure.
- Rich History and Cultural Heritage: The Côte d’Azur is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Take a step back in time as you wander through the ancient Roman ruins in places like Nice’s Cimiez neighborhood or explore the narrow medieval streets of towns like Eze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Admire the grandeur of Belle Epoque architecture in glamorous cities such as Nice and Cannes. Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene by visiting world-class museums like the Musée Matisse and the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain in Nice. Winter provides the perfect opportunity to delve into the region’s fascinating past and explore its cultural treasures.
- World-Class Golf Courses: The Côte d’Azur is renowned for its exceptional golf courses, which are consistently ranked among the most beautiful in Europe. With its mild winter climate, the region offers golf enthusiasts the opportunity to tee off amidst stunning landscapes year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the Côte d’Azur’s golf courses provide an unforgettable experience, combining challenging play with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding countryside.
- Gastronomic Delights: The Côte d’Azur is a paradise for food lovers, and its culinary scene is truly remarkable. Winter is the perfect time to indulge in the region’s gastronomic delights. Experience the pleasure of savoring Provençal cuisine, which is characterized by its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, and herbs. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local bistros, the Côte d’Azur offers a myriad of dining options to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Sample delicious seafood dishes, flavorful Mediterranean specialties, and exquisite wines from the region’s renowned vineyards.
- Fantastic Shopping Opportunities: The Côte d’Azur is synonymous with luxury and fashion, and winter is an ideal time for shopping enthusiasts to explore its stylish boutiques and designer stores. From glamorous fashion houses in cities like Nice and Cannes to charming local markets in towns and villages, you’ll find a wide array of shopping options to suit every taste. Discover the latest trends, shop for unique souvenirs, or indulge in high-end fashion and accessories. Winter sales also provide an excellent opportunity to find great deals on luxury goods.
The Happy Spa Week Côte d’Azur Experience
Sixteen high-end hotels, stretching from Monaco to Bandol and including Nice and Cannes, have come together to offer a two-week winter wellness experience (from November 20 to 26, 2017, and March 19 to 25, 2018). They aim to entice visitors seeking the region’s mild winter temperatures and an ideal environment for rejuvenation and outdoor sports activities. To promote these experiences and enhance the destination’s allure, the participating establishments, with the support of CRT Côte d’Azur France and the Principality of Monaco, have launched a large-scale seduction operation: the Happy Spa Week Côte d’Azur. The Concept and Offers: During the Happy Spa Weeks, each participating hotel offers two types of enticing packages:- Two nights in a double room for two people, including breakfast and spa treatments.
- A full day of spa treatments for one person, allowing local residents and visitors to discover or rediscover these exceptional establishments.
- Monaco:
- Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo/ Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo.
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort / spa Cinq Mondes.
- Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo.
- Beaulieu-sur-Mer: La Réserve de Beaulieu (available in March only).
- Eze: Cap Estel.
- Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat: Grand-Hôtel du Cap Ferrat.
- Nice: Boscolo Exedra Nice.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Le Mas de Pierre (available in March only).
- Cannes:
- Thermes Marins de Cannes/Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Thalasso.
- Majestic Barrière and Gray d’Albion.
- Five Seas Hotel.
- Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez (available in March only).
- Thermes Marins de Cannes/Radisson Blu 1835 Hotel & Thalasso.
- Mougins: Mas Candille.
- Bandol (Var): Dolce Frégate Hotel & Resort.
- Tourrettes (Var): Terre Blanche Hotel SPA Golf Resort.
- Lorgues (Var): Château de Berne.