If you’ve ever visited the French Riviera, you will know that it’s always a luxury, pleasant and beautiful place to visit. Not to mention, the chances of seeing a celebrity are sky-high in the South of France. The problem most have with it is when it’s time to leave. Besides celebrity spotting, there is so much more to the area.
The French Riviera is known for its beautiful art, luxury wines, and gorgeous cuisine.
To ensure the memories last a long time after you’ve waved goodbye to the Riviera, why not consider some of these excursions recommended by Twice Agency, who offer luxury lifestyle management services in the area.
1. Henri Matisse Prints
If you are an art lover, you should make sure your trip includes a visit to the Henri Matisse Museum. Located in Climiez hill in the stunning city of Nice, it has the biggest collection of his work. The people who inherited them gave them to the city, which is fitting as Matisse is famous for drawing and painting art inspired by the shapes and colors of the people and places around Nice.
The museum gift shop sells prints of the master’s most inspired works.
2. Fine French Wine
Let’s face it, aside from the scenery and the fine food, one of the things that draw you to France is the wine. Unless you’re teetotal of course. The best place to try wine in France, though any French wine is generally considered good, is the south, due to the soil being rich in nutrients and the excellent temperatures throughout most of the year.
The Languedoc-Roussillon region is without a doubt, one of the best to experience French wine. While visiting make sure you visit some vineyards and join tasting events and tours.
3. Nicolas Alziari Olive Oil
Nicolas Alziari Olive Oil is a very iconic local product of Nice. It was first offered in 1868 and has continued to be popular ever since. Loved by the people of Nice and tourists alike, you can purchase it from just two places. There is a large store along the Boulevard de la Madeleine and a smaller one at Rue Saint Francois de Paule. You are able to try free samples at both.
4. Provencal Pottery
Now, you will find local pottery stores in most towns and villages throughout Provence. However, there are two particular parts where you will find some of the best you have ever seen. Aubagne is home to a family-run pottery business called Ravel that has been designing unique and exquisite clay pots for around 170 years. While in the town Cliousdat, since as far back as the 10th century, decorative pottery has been made there. Even more impressive is the fact that they use the techniques of old. In both areas, you will have opportunities to buy original pieces that are 100s of years old and very rare.
5. Sylvie T Original Drawings
Sylvie T is a local artist, based in a small Nice abbey that creates ink and pen drawings in her simple lines and vibrant colors style. Most are stunning pieces showcasing just how incredible the Nice countryside and scenery is and she is famous for her ability to really stir the emotions and the imagination. All original pieces are between 300 and 500 Euros. However, there are also books, postcards, and prints that you can pick up for a more modest cost. Her gallery can be found on 14 Rue Right, 06300 Nice and is open from Tuesday to Saturday between 10.30am and 6pm.
We hope this will show you the South of France has so much more to offer than simply wealthy celebrities and beaches. The area has everything you could want from a destination, so be sure to see as much of its rich history as you can.
