The French Riviera and its headlands

The colours of the Mediterranean, and particularly those of the French Riviera, have inspired some of the greatest artists. Matisse, who lived in Nice for nearly 30 years, left numerous canvases full of colour and light behind. “When I realized that every morning, I’d see that light again, I couldn’t believe my luck.” His famous friend, Renoir, who lived in Cagnes-sur-Mer until his passing, also left us a permanent record of the rural landscapes of the French Riviera.

The beauty of the Côte d’Azur, nestled between the sea and the mountains, inspires creativity, offering residents and visitors a wonderful view and exclusive lifestyle. Let’s take a tour of these seaside capes with their colourful, almost painterly seascapes, magnified by the light.

The Riviera’s best-known headlands and their secret sites

Their names, known all around the world, are a real call to travel. Cap d’Ail, Cap Ferrat, Cap Martin, Cap d’Antibes, Cap Taillat and Cap Dramont all contribute to the region’s natural wealth.

Cap Ferrat or the millionaire’s peninsula

Cap Ferrat in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, in the Alpes Maritimes, features numerous luxury estates. The headland is dotted with delightful villas, nestled in lush surroundings, with stunning views of the vast ocean - properties that have endured through time without losing any of their charm or exclusivity: Villa Fleur de Cap, Villa Les Cèdres, Villa Fiorentina and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, etc.

Cap d’Ail on the Monaco border

Cap Ail is a jewel in the crown of the French Riviera and is exclusively located between Monaco and Eze. Villa Roc Fleuri, with its Italian inspired façade and the Belle Epoque style Château des Terrasses are an important part of local heritage and will delight all architecture enthusiasts.

Cap d’Antibes and its breath-taking panoramic view

Cap d’Antibes boasts a breath-taking view. If you need convincing, just take a walk along the sentier Tirepoil footpath. The delights of nature are to be found all along this coastal trail. Not to mention the magnificent châteaux nearby. Cap d’Antibes boasts numerous renowned properties: the Château de la Croë, Villa Eilenroc and the Château de la Garoupe.

Cap Taillat and its coves

Cap Taillat, in the Var, located between Ramatuelle and la Croix-Valmer, is regarded as the region’s green lung thanks to its lush vegetation and unspoilt coves. Cap Taillat, which is ideally located on the peninsula of Saint-Tropez, boasts an extremely impressive view.

Lesser-known headlands and their promise of escape

Other lesser-known headlands (Cap Bénat, Cap Nègre, Cap Lardier and Cap Camarat) with their vertiginous views of the sea are the ideal place to recharge your batteries and enjoy the French Riviera - just for the summer or, perhaps, for life!