Engel & Völkers French Riviera > Blog > Why should you live on the French Riviera in winter?

Why should you live on the French Riviera in winter?

Thanks to an exceptional geographical location between sea and mountains, the French Riviera combines all the elements to offer a privileged environment to those who choose to make it their home. If you want to enjoy a mild winter, combined with the joys of skiing, this destination will make your dream come true.


The Mediterranean climate of the French Riviera attracts investors

If you plan to invest in real estate on the French Riviera, you will enjoy its particularly generous sunshine – and this asset isn’t only reserved for summer! Even if the temperatures fall during the winter, the Mediterranean climate offers a relaxed lifestyle in any season, thanks to its 2 700 hours of sunshine each year. The winter luminosity is remarkable and temperatures rarely fall below 5 degrees, whilst even reaching 14 degrees during the day. Although rainfalls are more frequent in December, it is scarce during the months of January and February, which are known for shorter, heavier rain showers.

Spring always comes early, and reveal its green scenery bathed in light. These conditions are ideal for walks along the coastline or bicycle rides in the hinterland, captivating residents and visitors alike with the charm of the French Riviera landscape.

The proximity of ski resorts from the coast


Temperatures are colder in altitude in the Southern Alps and residents are sure to experience snowfall every winter, without having to travel long distances. The ski area offers several possibilities of activities, ranging from Nordic or downhill skiing, snowboarding, skijoring, snow scooting, and snowshoeing. These can be enjoyed in several ski stations near the major cities on the French Riviera.


This ski station is located in the Alpes-Maritimes region, less than a 90 minutes’ drive from the sea. You can find here many famous tracks right at the gates of the Mercantour National Park at 1 600 metres above sea level.

Not far from Auron, the Isola 2000 station offers you the exciting opportunity of skiing over a 120 km stretch of slopes and many picturesque snow-covered walks.

Located at an altitude of 1700 m in the heart of the Mercantour mountains, Valberg sits just one hour and 15 minutes from Nice and attracts many wide-eyed skiers for its snow and favourable sunshine. 

Unique cultural events

If you choose the French Riviera for your ideal real estate investments, you will also be surprised by the unique events organized in the area – sports and cultural alike – that are on offer throughout the year. Unlike the rest of France, the mild climate of this region allows events to be held during the winter months. It is, therefore, not a surprise that the Nice Carnival, the Saint-Blaise in Valbonne, the Lemon Festival in Menton, and many other fantastical festivities are organised in this period! 


As each city organises its own events, you are allowed to have a vast array or choices, based on the location of your property. The Nice Carnival is among the most famous and is held between January and February, allowing performers to parade the streets in mild temperatures. Meanwhile, in the city of Menton, the Lemon Festival is organised to celebrate the glory of citrus by means of colourful parades. Sports fans can also look forward to many festivities, including the Winter Horse Show that brings together some of the world’s best jockeys for a high-level racing spectacle full of adrenaline.

Contact us now
Engel & Völkers
French Riviera

We know the true value of your property

Do you know how much your property is currently worth? No matter if you just want to inform yourself about the current market-price, or if you wish to sell your property for the best price: our experienced marketing experts are happy to assist you with a free and non-binding valuation.

Follow us on social media