Even the most world-weary travellers admit that the Côte d'Azur exerts a special hold over them. From images of glamorous starlets filmed through the besotted lens of Hollywood to a clutch of legendary hotels, luxury Riviera holidays have carved out a reputation as the ultimate in sophistication and elegance.
Ever since it was first patronised as a holiday destination by Queen Victoria, the French Riviera has attracted the rich, famous and plain curious. This glittering coastline, sheltered by the Alps, is dotted with tiny offshore islands, wide sandy beaches and secluded coves. It conjures up visions of palm-lined boulevards, marinas, luxury yachts and the celebrity resorts of Nice, Cannes and St. Tropez as well as the exclusive principality of Monaco.
