Sitting on the coast between St Tropez and Nice, Cannes is the most glamorous beach resort on the French Riviera. Once a tiny fishing village, nowadays the city is known worldwide for its sandy beaches, dazzling superyachts and epic nightlife.
Cannes also plays host to some of the most exciting festivals in the world throughout the year. From films to fashion, fireworks to food, there’s always something big going on in Festival City.
These days Cannes is as glittering as it is popular, but things were very different back when it was founded in the 6th Century. Then, the Le Suquet hill was used as a handy watchtower by the monks over on the neighbouring Iles de Lérins.
Thanks to its perfect position on the coast, they used the village to keep watch for marauding Saracen pirates. Over time the little town expanded and the region became more prosperous. Then, in the 19th Century Cannes was discovered by the British aristocracy and quickly became the place to be seen during the winter season thanks to its glorious beaches and endless sunshine.
With the introduction of the Film Festival in the 1940’s, the city became Hollywood’s favourite summer resort and the rest as they say, is history. Interestingly, about 20 monks still live on the Lérins islands today. But a screening of the latest film in the Pirates of the Caribbean saga is now about as close as you’ll get to the marauders of yesteryear in this part of the Mediterranean!
The Croisette is the heart of Cannes. The boulevard stretches along the seafront for 2 kilometres and is fringed by shady palm trees. This is where the Cannois spend their time. Along with the Carré d’Or, this area is known locally as La Banane, or the banana district thanks to its unique shape. It’s the perfect place for people-watching over a cappuccino or shopping in Cannes’ luxury boutiques.
The Palais des Festivals sits at one end of the Croisette and plays host to the city’s most exciting events. And the chic private beaches are just a few steps away. Whether you plan to work on your tan or try out this season’s most thrilling new watersports, you’ll love the beachfront city centre. When evening falls, the Banane is the place to be. From the lively bars of the Rue d’Antibes to the Michelin-starred restaurants along the Croisette, evenings out in Cannes are always a special occasion.
At the far end of the Croisette, you’ll find the city’s Palm Beach area. Much like its Florida namesake, Palm Beach is a waterfront district with stunning luxury apartments and villas overlooking the Mediterranean. This part of town is ideal for those who are looking for a quiet city break. It’s close enough to be able to walk to the beach and all the best restaurants. But it’s also just far enough out of town to avoid the noise and hustle in the evenings. We highly recommend watching the sun go down over the Iles de Lérins from your balcony. This is beach life at its most glamorous.
At the other end of the Croisette is the port with its impressive collection of superyachts. This area leads up to the old town of Le Suquet, the original Cannes fishing village. Charming and traditional, Le Suquet is a warren of tiny streets and steep stone stairways dating back to 154 BC.
The old town boasts a medieval castle and museum at the very top of the hill with some amazing views over the bay. By day, the streets leading up the hill are lined with chic boutiques and art galleries which are well worth a browse. And at night, Le Suquet comes to life with dozens of bistros and some of Cannes’ oldest and most popular wine bars, perfect for a fabulous evening out on the French Riviera.
Up in the hills around the city, you’ll find 2 more exclusive districts bursting with outstanding rental properties. First up is La Californie, which is made up of lush green hills and gorgeous scenery overlooking the Mediterranean.
This is where you’ll find many of the city’s beautiful 1920s and 30s art deco villas. This area has played host to some of the biggest names of the 20th Century including Picasso who was inspired by the spectacular garden of his Californie villa. With some of the best views in town, La Californie is a hillside haven within easy reach of the city centre and all the attractions down on the coast.
Just a few minutes away from La Californie, is Super Cannes. This select neighbourhood is home to some of the most luxurious properties in Cannes. If you’re looking for a gated property with total privacy and seclusion, this is the place for you. A short drive from the beaches and restaurants, Super Cannes is surrounded by olive groves and shady pine trees. This little taste of Provence in the city also boasts incredible panoramic views over the coast from Antibes right down to St Tropez.
Just off the coast of Cannes are the islands of Lérins which are perfectly placed for a private yacht charter. Ile Ste-Marguérite has the infamous Fort Royal prison where you can discover the mystery of the Man in the Iron Mask. And the smaller of the two islands, Ile St-Honorat is still home to the original order of Cistercian monks who founded the monastery back in AD410.
Sample some of the delicious wine they produce from the island’s vineyards or try out some of the honey-based products in their little boutique. Then spend the afternoon exploring the hidden coves and beaches all over the islands before heading back to your luxurious holiday home in Cannes.