"The charm of Villefranche-sur-Mer " a Villefranche-sur-Mer Travel Page by NiceLife

Winding lanes, rich mediterranean colours, all the charm of this pretty "village" which claims Tina Turner as a resident, though it must be said I have never seen her come down from her estate high above in the hills.

You can sunbathe on the coarse sand of the wide beach, swim the calm waters of the bay sheltered by Cap Ferrat on one side and the Cap de Nice on the other , and then retreat to the relaxing cafes or one of the pretty restaurants that line the harbour, for a light lunch, something to drink, or treat yourself to some great ice cream sundaes. There is a vibrant international local community resident in Villefranche, as well as regular visitors for whom its a favourite haunt, many from across the Italian border and Monaco. The limited number of tourist hotels mean it remains rather priviledged and exclusive, without being overly expensive.

There's plenty of local history to explore, some remarkably interesting permanent art exhibitions - free entry. The ambiance is sophisticated, friendly, and safe due to its "human scale" - resident population max 30,000, compared with 300,000 in Nice around the bay.

Nothing is over- commercialised, no fast junkfood, jet-ski, para-gliding or watersports antics to ruin the calm enjoyment of the Med.

Villefranche describes itself as the "Paradis d'Azur", and its not far wrong.

Jean Cocteau, inspirational artist and film director came here in 1925 staying at the Hotel Welcome. Villefranche then was a centre of literary and artistic activity, with Stravinsky was living not far away. and actress Isadora Duncan a frequent visitor, before her meeting with a scarf, an open top motor car, and destiny, outside the Negresco, Nice.

Opposite the Cocteau church, the Hotel Welcome is virtually unchanged since the nineteen twenties, with its air of graceful decay. Around it are the excellent cafe/ bars Le Cosmos and Les Palmiers.

Around the citadel you can find your way to the charming and unhurried Port Darse, where more casual alfresco cafe setting awaits at the Baleine Joyeuse.

Relaxed atmosphere, mediterranean colours, elegant people, amazing vista onto Cap Ferrat, unspoilt.

If you are in the mood for a little walking from here you can leave by the far side of the beach and walk on to Cap Ferrat or along to Beaulieu, past exclusive and secluded private villas with names like "Les Pieds dans la Mer" and Nellcote, briefly home to the Rolling Stones in their 1970's tax exile. Stroll around Cap Ferrat, visit The Villa Rothchild, and Kerylos at Beaulieu - all within walking distance (American comedian Stephen Wright once wrote "everything is within walking distance - if you have enough time"