From the sun-kissed beaches of the Côte d’Azur to the medieval gems and culinary delights, Provence in the South of France offers a perfect blend of natural landscapes, cultural treasures, and exquisite gastronomy. Here’s a guide to the memorable places that inspired the Provencal restaurant Lalou.
The Beaches of Belle Rives and L’Ecrin
Firstly, discover the beauty of the Côte d’Azur coastline in Southern France at Belle Rives. Don’t miss the ingenious paddle boats with curved slides for a thrilling experience. Lunch at Belle Rives and let your kids feed the fish off the dock while you savor a drink. Also, head to L’Ecrin for an all-day beach experience. With more sandy terrain, it’s perfect for sandcastle building. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the shaded terrace while your little ones swim nearby. End the day with a delightful time at the Plage Keller, a beloved family-run restaurant with mouthwatering Dover sole, sea salt-crusted sea bass, and bouillabaisse.
Saint Paul de Vence
You’d feel like stepping into a John Singer Sargent painting as you wander through Saint Paul de Vence, a medieval gem of a town in France. Enjoy a relaxing morning at Café de la Place, savoring croissants and fresh orange juice. Explore the fortified medieval walls and stroll through the narrow pathways, discovering galleries and artisan shops. Visit Café Timothe for a refreshing iced matcha and admire the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs with its pastel walls and stunning mosaics. Immerse yourself in art at Fondation Maeght, the first independent art foundation in France. Then marvel at the sculpture garden and the indoor collection housed in a design by José Luis Sert. Then relish the ultimate dining experience at Columbe d’Or and enjoy the delectable prosciutto with melon and an overflowing vegetable basket.
Luxury Gastronomy in Antibes and Cannes
Visit the iconic Eden Roc in Antibes, a playground for the jeunesse dorée of the roaring ’20s. Opt for the informally elegant Grille and savor classic French dishes. Then head to Cannes and dine at Petite Maison, renowned for its fresh and consistent menu featuring seasonal local produce like shrimp, tomato, and tuna. Experience the cozy atmosphere of Bobo Bistro, where wood-fired pizzas and a colorful palette await you. The dazzling Da Laura in Mougins is a Michelin-starred restaurant in France, offering exceptional Italian cuisine. Savor the spaghetti with truffle, mushroom risotto, and salt-crusted sea bass here. While in Valbonne, don’t miss Les Terraillers and enjoy its creative and delicious cuisine, especially the famous ‘Risotto aux Truffes.’