Last spring, Rachel, Michael and I went on a parent-daughter adventure to Southern France where we enjoyed several days in Cannes and Cap Ferret! Spending time there together enhanced our journey with so many memorable moments and picturesque settings along the French coast.
Cannes:
Our days were spent soaking in the sun at various beach clubs, savoring delicious meals, wandering down quiet streets, and saying yes to the kind of spontaneous moments that make travel so special. We based ourselves in Cannes during the Film Festival, which made everything feel even more alive. The streets buzzed with excitement — cameras, couture, celebrity sightings, and that electric sense that anything might happen. We stayed at a sweet little Airbnb called Carla Rosa, tucked on a quiet street just far enough from the crowds, but close enough to walk everywhere. It gave us space to settle in and start our days slowly.
Every morning, we went into town for breakfast to pick up fresh fruit, a crusty baguette, and stop at Fromagerie Céneri for cheese. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to throw together an impromptu picnic every afternoon. We wandered the Old Town, where we found Just in Provence, a boutique filled with handmade lavender soaps, little jars of jelly, and Provençal dips we couldn't resist packing in our suitcase. Rachel discovered Sandra Quartraro boutique from a previous trip there—a shop filled with many toile and South of France style dresses, skirts and tops. We bought a few pieces that were perfect to wear for our day trip to Cap Ferret.
The Cannes Film Festival brought so much energy to the city and it was a fun time to be there — we passed paparazzi camped outside The Carlton Hotel, waiting for stars to emerge in red-carpet gowns. One afternoon, we spotted Juliette Binoche having lunch at Fouquet’s, just a few tables away from us.
At Fouquet’s
Let’s talk about the food…because the French always seem to hit the mark! Fred l’Ecailler was a standout — elegant, warm, and perfect if you like fresh fish. We loved La Petite Maison for its lively atmosphere and shared plates (and that perfect Niçoise vibe). L’Avenue felt like a little slice of Paris on the Riviera, and our dinner at Luigi turned into a night of music, laughter, and the best people-watching ever! Combining music, dancing, dining and entertainment are definitely “a thing” here and we truly enjoyed every minute!
One of our favorite afternoons was spent at La Guérite, a glamorous island restaurant tucked into the rocky coast of Île Sainte-Marguerite, just off the shore of Cannes. You hop on a private boat shuttle from the Port de Cannes, which takes about 10–15 minutes. The short boat ride there was enjoyable—the crystal-clear water, yachts all around, and the silhouette of Cannes fading behind us! We booked the 3:30 p.m. seating, which is when things start to shift from laid-back lunch to full-blown celebration. At first, it’s all grilled sea bass, rosé, and sun-drenched conversation. A few hours later, the DJ picks up the tempo, and before you know it, people are dancing (some on the tables), singing and waving linen napkins in the air. We joined them in the festivities, and it was so much fun! The crowd was beautiful, international, and ready to party. Later that day, we spent time drinking cocktails in chairs overlooking the water, feeling so grateful we were there.
Another great day spent after a morning of shopping was spent at MOMe Cannes, a chic beach club located directly on the Boulevard de la Croisette. The vibe is upbeat and stylish, with plush loungers, DJ-spun tunes, and a mix of locals and international visitors. We lounged just steps from the ocean, ordered fresh fruit cocktails, and lingered over a delicious Mediterranean-inspired lunch—think grilled sea bass, heirloom tomato burrata salad, and truffle fries. The setting is ideal for taking in the glittering coastline—It had just the right balance of scene and serenity.
Cap Ferrat:
After the buzz of Cannes, Cap Ferrat was the most beautiful change of pace. It was peaceful, green, and full of hidden coves. We drove along the coastline, stopping for photos and gelato, and spent the day for lunch at the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat (Four Seasons) and exploring the area. Club Dauphin, the Four Seasons' legendary cliffside pool, was heaven.
We wanted to stop at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc but our schedule did not allow the time for it. I hear from many friends that this is a “must-stay” luxury destination—the view alone is worth it— iconic, cinematic, and deeply serene. It’s added to my bucket list for next time! It’s also recommended to visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, with its themed gardens and views of the sea in every direction for a romantic and old-world feel.
Cannes brought us style and spontaneity. Cap Ferrat offered grace and stillness. Until next time, beloved Côte d’Azur. We’ll be back — hopefully with even more time, fewer schedules, and the same sense of wonder!
