French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Starting the Day with Scenic Coastal Drive and Beaulieu sur Mer

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path

Discover the highlights and hidden gems of the French Riviera in an 8-hour private tour, including stunning coastal walks, gardens, and authentic villages.

Explore the Best of the French Riviera in a Private Day Tour

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Explore the Best of the French Riviera in a Private Day Tour

This 8-hour private tour offers an engaging journey through some of the most iconic and authentic spots along the French Riviera. Priced at $1,334 per group, it accommodates up to 6 people, making it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide from LIVE HARMONY, ensuring flexible, tailored visits to each stop. Starting with hotel pickup in Nice, this tour balances famous sights with off-the-beaten-path treasures, all within a comfortable, accessible itinerary.

Designed for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, this tour also appeals to travelers craving authentic local experiences. With a focus on scenic walks, spectacular gardens, and charming villages, it provides a comprehensive taste of the South of France. Expect breathtaking views, delicious homemade food, and a relaxed pace that allows for plenty of photo opportunities and exploration.

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Key Points

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Key Points

  • Private group experience with a flexible, customized itinerary
  • Includes visits to Beaulieu sur Mer, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Ephrussi Estate, Eze, and Sainte Agnès
  • Stunning coastal walk along the “customs path” with views of Charlie Chaplin’s house
  • Spectacular gardens at Ephrussi Estate with incredible views and floral displays
  • Authentic late lunch at a family-run inn in Sainte Agnès with homemade food
  • Accessible, flat walking paths suitable for most travelers
  • Guided by a 14-year experienced local guide with a friendly, adaptable approach

Starting the Day with Scenic Coastal Drive and Beaulieu sur Mer

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Starting the Day with Scenic Coastal Drive and Beaulieu sur Mer

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Nice at 09:00 am, setting the stage for a scenic exploration of the French Riviera. The first stop is Beaulieu sur Mer, a charming seaside town accessible via the lowest Corniche, known for its picturesque streets and waterside promenade. Here, the guide leads you along a beautiful walk that follows the coast towards Saint Jean Cap Ferrat.

This stretch features a flat, accessible route called the “customs path,” which offers incredible views and views of the coastline. The walk passes Charlie Chaplin’s house, adding a touch of Hollywood history to the stunning scenery. The walk is perfect for all ages and fitness levels, providing amazing photo opportunities and a peaceful seaside atmosphere.

Discovering the Spectacular Ephrussi Estate and Its Gardens

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Discovering the Spectacular Ephrussi Estate and Its Gardens

Next, the tour takes you to the Ephrussi de Rothschild Estate, a highlight for garden lovers and architecture fans. The estate is perfectly situated with spectacular views over the sea and features beautifully furnished gardens. Visitors can stroll through floral displays, ornate terraces, and exotic plants, all meticulously maintained.

Entry to the estate costs 14 euros per person, but the experience of wandering these incredible gardens and taking in the panoramic scenery makes it well worth the modest fee. The estate’s design and location make it one of the most memorable stops on the tour, with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

Traveling Along the Middle Corniche to Eze Village

The journey continues along the middle Corniche, one of the most scenic roads in the area, offering sweeping mountain and sea views. The next stop is the legendary village of Eze, a medieval hilltop town perched dramatically on a rocky peak.

Eze is famous for its exotic gardens at the top of the village, which provide unique views across the coastline and inland mountains. The guide explains the history and charm of this quaint village, emphasizing its authenticity and timeless character. Entry to the exotic garden costs 6 euros per person, adding to the experience’s enriching nature.

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Stopping at Sainte Agnès: One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Stopping at Sainte Agnès: One of Frances Most Beautiful Villages

Driving high into the mountains via the Madona alpine loop, the tour reaches Sainte Agnès, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages of France. This authentic village offers narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and an inviting family-run inn.

Here, travelers enjoy a late lunch around 2:30 pm, featuring homemade dishes prepared by local artisans. The inn’s culinary offerings highlight the region’s local flavors, with dishes made from fresh, authentic ingredients. The stunning mountain views around Sainte Agnès provide a peaceful, scenic backdrop for a leisurely meal.

Scenic Drive Back with Panoramic Mountain Views

The final stretch of the tour takes you back towards Nice through the Madona alpine loop, offering breathtaking mountain scenery. The route emphasizes the natural beauty of the mountains and coast, with many opportunities to enjoy the landscape and take photos.

The tour concludes around 5:00 pm with hotel drop-off, giving you a relaxed end to a day packed with diverse, authentic experiences. The journey balances scenic drives, walks, and cultural highlights in a way that feels manageable and enjoyable, even for those with limited mobility.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour is fully private, with guiding services provided and hotel pickup and drop-off included in the price. The group size is limited to 6 people, ensuring a personalized, intimate experience.

While the tour covers many highlights, entrance tickets to attractions and food and drinks are not included in the price, giving travelers flexibility to choose what they want to explore or purchase. A full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for planning.

Unique Aspects That Set This Tour Apart

French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path - Unique Aspects That Set This Tour Apart

What makes this tour stand out is its ability to combine famous sites like Eze and Sainte Agnès with authentic local experiences, such as the homemade lunch at a family inn. The scenic coastal walk between Beaulieu sur Mer and Saint Jean Cap Ferrat offers an accessible yet visually stunning experience, not often included in standard Riviera tours.

The knowledgeable guide, with 14 years of experience, keeps the tour flexible and tailored to guests’ wishes, ensuring a relaxed and informative day. The focus on stunning views, authentic villages, and beautiful gardens makes this tour especially appealing for those wanting a well-rounded, genuine taste of the region.

The Sum Up of the French Riviera Highlights & Off the Beaten Path Tour

This private guided tour provides a thoughtfully curated day through the best of the French Riviera, with a focus on authenticity, stunning scenery, and local charm. The combination of coastal walks, medieval villages, and exquisite gardens offers a diverse experience that remains comfortable and accessible.

While entrance fees and food are extras, the overall value lies in the personalized guidance, flexible pacing, and unique stops. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, authentic villages, and beautiful landscapes, all within a well-organized, intimate day. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to avoid the typical crowds and discover hidden gems along the Côte d’Azur.

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French Riviera : highlights & off the beaten path



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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, starting with pickup in Nice at 09:00 am and concluding around 5:00 pm.

How many people can join this private tour?
The tour accommodates up to 6 guests per group, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the tour price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off along with guiding services are included. Entrance tickets to attractions and food are not included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the flat and accessible walking paths make it suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The guide, with 14 years of experience, remains flexible and can adapt the tour to your wishes.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and exploring the gardens and villages.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and authentic experiences, making it a highly recommended way to explore the South of France beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:
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