Villa Huelle

Nestled on the hillside just above the city of Cannes, Villa Huelle is hidden from the hustle and bustle yet just a stone’s throw away from the French Riviera and its first-class resorts.  

Venture outside the villa, and you’ll find a small local park for taking picnics in stunning surroundings and many walking trails offering a magical view of Cannes and the coast. Promenade de belvédère is a hiking area with enough shade to hide from the blazing Mediterranean sunshine. 

It’s also a 10-minute drive to Cannes’ picturesque beaches, such as the rocky Crique naturiste de la Mirandole and sandy Plages du Soleil. There are plenty of things to do in the city, such as walking along the curving Croisette promenade and admiring pretty views or seeing the city from the top of a hill where an 11th-century castle, Musée-de-la-Castre, now stands. When you get hungry, head to the area around Rue du Bateguier – here, you can find plenty of dining options ranging from Michelin French restaurants to cosy cafés and terraced bars with experimental cuisine. Alternatively, casinos such as Casino La Croisette within the Palais des Festivals will ensure an unforgettable night out. 

If you love admiring art and soaking up an artsy atmosphere, Antibes will be the perfect place. The resort city is known to be one of the late residences of Pablo Picasso, and the Musée Picasso is dedicated to him. You can spend your afternoon walking around the historic old town and admiring 16th-century ramparts, which house a maze of local markets and charming winding streets.

Other notable places on the Riviera include Théoule-sur-Mer, located at the foothills of the Esterel Massif, which you can see from the villa; Nice, Saint Tropez, and Monaco are all a comfortable drive away. If you want to live out your French Provençal fantasy, head inland to explore beautiful market towns, medieval villages and farmland with olive groves, cypress trees and lavender.

Read more about Cannes

Despite being renowned for its annual international film festival in May at the iconic Palais des Festivals, Cannes is not just a glamourous destination for the rich and famous. The attractive Côte d’Azur town is loved all year round for its palm-fringed beaches, upmarket shopping opportunities and wonderful restaurants as well as a certain French Riviera charm.

Stroll along Cannes’ iconic La Croisette boulevard following the footsteps of stars from years gone by as you admire prestigious hotels, luxurious boutiques and private beach clubs. Stop off for a cocktail as the sun sets and admire the twinkling lights across the bay. Even at night, La Croisette remains the vibrant heart of this bustling town.

Shop to your heart’s delight along the streets of the Carré d’Or district – come across hundreds of well-known stores along Rue d’Antibes. At the end of a busy day there’s a vast choice of restaurants to suit every taste and budget from authentic bistros spilling out on to the street to Michelin starred establishments.

Soak up the historic side of Cannes as you explore Le Suquet quarter’s medieval lanes passing little shops, atmospheric restaurants, flower-filled balconies and old fishermen’s houses. Climb to the top of the hill by Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance for stunning views of the harbour, followed by a visit to Château de la Castre and its popular museum. This part of Cannes is also home to the colourful Marché Forville showcasing the very best gourmet delights of Cannes and beyond.  

Escape the crowds as you venture to Croix Des Gardes natural park with forest walking routes, botanical plants and glorious views across to the Lérins Islands. Look out for some fantastic boat trips from Cannes’ marina from whale and dolphin-watching excursions to family adventures on board a chartered yacht, sight-seeing ferries and romantic sun-set cruises.  

Beyond the city centre, visit the ceramic studios and National Picasso Museum in Vallauris, follow Picasso’s footsteps in the enchanting hilltop village of Mougins (loved for its galleries and gastronomy) and appreciate the artistic vibe of Biot with beautiful views of the French Riviera. Chic Juan-les-Pins, so loved by Parisians in the summer, is home to beachside restaurants and more watersports whilst keen walkers will adore the incredible coastal trail around Cap d’Antibes.

In the other direction is the charming seaside village of Théoule-sur-Mer, backed by the dramatic Esterel massif, another paradise for hikers. By staying in one of our collection of handpicked rentals in Cannes you can experience all of this and more during your time on the glistening Côte d’Azur.