The Summery French Riviera #1
Beyond Paris, there are Antibes and Nice
In a busied world, where days seem to slip by, staying connected takes on even greater significance. This newsletter seeks to inspire through shared glimpses of life and moments of togetherness in France—drawing us closer, one story at a time.
This is the first in a two-part series, 'The Summery French Riviera.' Here’s the link to the last newsletter:
The Summery French Riviera #2 - Antibes.
At the start of summer, I set out to reunite with my brother before catching up with friends. After his first year immersed in studies and roamings in Province, it was high time for my routine inspection. He had promised to share his soul-revamping spots, offering my family and me a privileged glimpse into the life he had carved out.
📌A swift geographical dive
First, a map of the French Riviera, nestled in the South, contrasting with Paris in the North. Then, a closer look at the Riviera, highlighting Antibes and Nice on the East.
Day-1 : A breezy get-together in Antibes, France
My brother’s plans promised a breezy 40-minute jaunt, but we all know ‘brother’s plans’—expect double the time with a touch of farcical signature. Undeterred by the military wake-up call and our makeshift cardio session, we set off under the sun’s skin-goldening rays, groggily overlooking snacks and sunscreen.
True enjoyment came from tracing the contours of the Antibes Cape. Along the path, we mingled with fellow hikers and bathers, soaking in Nature, the Mediterranean Sea, and cheering each other on at checkpoints.
At the trail’s end, as we neared the last bay, ironically feeling thoroughly spent, my sibling requested one last indulgence—a refreshing five-minute dip to recover from his ‘brother’s scheme’.
Day-2 : A candied excursion in Nice, France
The next day, we headed north to Nice, set to explore its Port and the Castle Hill nearby. Just off the entry road, a building caught our eye - its architecture preserved, from modern 'improvements’. Above, in evocative candy-apple-red letters, the sign read ‘Florian Confiserie’. With a hill climb awaiting us, convincing the family to step inside was straightforward. After all, before effort comes comfort, as the saying goes.
Stepping in, it felt like we’d been welcomed into Willy Wonka’s factory; we were instantly transported back to childhood. We could vividly imagine the past, where local children, clutching their hard-earned coins, eagerly rushed to the shop’s entrance, knowing the first to arrive would be the first served. Faced with the literally-sweet dilemma of choosing only a couple of treats, they might have tried, with wide, pleading eyes, to coax an extra one from the shopkeepers for the road.
Moving upstairs, the confiseur, with an artist’s precision and passion, narrated the story and craft behind each confection, guiding us through the alchemy as we witnessed every step unfold.
Drawing us in further, he offered each onlooker a warm, crystallized raspberry treat. The ten of us, suspended in a shared moment of bliss, were on cloud nine. As we continued our tasting journey, I couldn’t resist sneaking a few more delights from the selection downstairs, with a personal preference for chocolates—especially those encapsulating violet or rose sugar-quartz.
We were utterly stocked for the hike.
We began our ascent up the stoned steps, each landing revealing a fresh perspective of the Port of Nice. Along the way, we crossed paths with couples nestled on benches, lost in their intimate moments. With consideration, we paused occasionally to grant them privacy, allowing them to embrace shielded from the world.
At the summit, we were greeted with a complete panorama of Nice: to the right, the Port glistened, while to the left, the city center unfurled in a picturesque expanse, with each view Nice-ly completing the other.
Beyond Paris, there are Antibes and Nice
To capture and appreciate a country’s spirit and its people’s quirks, one must venture beyond its renowned capital. Instead, tune into the heartbeat of its diverse regions and follow the ones that resonate most deeply.
France, with its starkly contrasting regions—from the ruggedly majestic North to the sunlit and vivacious South, the windswept West to the storybook East, and the storied heartlands of the Centre—unfolds the dynamic boutis of its landscapes. Each French terroir weaves its own tale, steeped in distinctive heritage, painting the portrait of a land brimming with character. I am continually inspired by these vignettish vistas, and eager to discover more of their hidden treasures.
Let’s embark on this journey together, cherishing what France generously offers.
✒️ To those inclined
Which town or city in your home country do you believe is a hidden gem?
What experiences or sights make it special?
What's the best way to travel there from the capital, sustainably?
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Thank you for being here.
The Summery French Riviera #2
In a busied world, where days seem to slip by, staying connected takes on even greater significance. This newsletter seeks to inspire through shared glimpses of life and moments of togetherness in France—drawing us closer, one story at a time.
I would say nearly every part of France contains what is now known as "hidden gems." Lately I got to know a few cities in the Allier department, Moulins and Vichy, which were fascinating places. Much of the countryside there is relaxing and peaceful.
Pérouges, founded in the 12th century, is like a snapshot in time, and on the Riviera coast Cassis is amazing.