Villa Maxime

Villa Maxime is sandwiched between two of French Riviera’s most dazzling cities - Cannes and Antibes. While the Côte d'Azur's glistening coastline awaits, you are also close enough to explore the lavender fields and medieval towns that lie in the hinterland behind this breathtaking villa.

Start your adventure by exploring the local neighbourhood of Vallauris. Here you can find a museum dedicated to Picasso’s pottery, Musée National Pablo Picasso – La Guerre et la Paix, and another small museum, Musee De La Poterie. Walk along the main street lined with cafés and charming boutiques selling art and ceramics to stock up on unique souvenirs before you leave. There’s also an array of walking trails in the wooded area underneath the hills, and when you get hungry you can hop in the car and drive for 5 minutes to the closest restaurant or supermarket.

On a hot day, follow flocks of holidaymakers to the coast, with the closest resort being Golfe-Juan. Swim in the shallow waters and catch sun rays on Plages du Soleil, or head to the port Vieux Port Golfe Juan to look at the colourful fishing boats moored alongside sleek sailboats. From here, you can make it all the way to Antibes and stop by the Parc Exflora public gardens with a pond and sea views to stretch your legs underneath the trees. Plage de Juan les Pins is another popular beach nearby, and it features crystal-clear water with super-soft sand and beach clubs around.

There’s plenty to do in and around Antibes, so make sure to dedicate at least one full day there during your trip. Spend a day wandering around the historic old town and admiring 16th-century ramparts which house a maze of local markets and charming winding streets or set off on a coastal Picasso trail with scenic vistas. You can find most of the city’s notable sights in the neighbourhood of Vielle Ville, such as the Cathedral Notre-Dame and the Musée Picasso, showcasing some of the artist’s work.

Alternatively, head to the glitzy Cannes for an unforgettable day (and night) out. Before you hit the rooftop bars and clubs, go for a wholesome stroll along the curving Croisette promenade and admire the pretty sea views or spread out a blanket on the wide sandy beach. The area around Rue du Bateguier is great for lunch and dinner to satisfy your cravings. When the night falls, find after-dark fun in casinos such as Casino La Croisette within the Palais des Festivals or head to a nightclub for an unforgettable night out.

If you drive for just 30 minutes, you can reach Nice, a classic Mediterranean city that has been luring artists and creatives for centuries. Get your culture fix in one of its many museums and galleries such as Museums in Nice and Musée d'Art Moderne Et d'Art Contemporain, or visit the ornate Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice, a byzantine-style palace.

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.