A Weekend Escape to the Medieval Village of Èze on the French Riviera
Just a thirty-minute drive from Nice Airport lies the enchanting, pedestrianised medieval village of Èze. Perched dramatically on a cliff top, this historic gem offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the French Riviera, from the rugged Esterel Mountains all the way to the sparkling Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The village's elevated position provides an unparalleled vantage point over the azure waters and lush landscapes of the Côte d'Azur, making it an ideal destination for a short but memorable getaway.
Saturday: Arrival and Exploration
11:00 AM: After arriving, a winding ascent up ancient stone cobblestones leads to the luxurious boutique hotel, Château Eza. With double rooms starting from £250 per night, this hotel combines historic charm with modern comfort. Following a swift check-in, guests are invited to the terrace to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine while soaking in the spectacular vista of the coastline below.
12:00 PM: The exploration of Èze begins with a visit to its baroque church and a stroll through the village's bohemian boutiques. Enhancing the experience, a bottle of Côtes de Provence, purchased from a local wine shop at the base of the village, can be enjoyed from a seat carved directly into the cliff face, offering a unique and relaxing moment amidst the scenery.
1:00 PM: Dining options in the compact village are limited, but La Taverne stands out with its delicious and reasonably priced pizzas. The Napoli pizza, priced at £12, is substantial enough for two people to share. Guests can choose to dine on the outdoor terrace or, during cooler weather, inside the ancient, vaulted dining room, which adds a touch of historical ambiance to the meal.
3:00 PM: To walk off lunch, a visit to the Jardin Exotique d'Èze is highly recommended. Located 429 metres above sea level on the site of a former medieval fort, this exotic garden features steep pathways flanked by succulents and stylised sculptures of women. The £9 entry fee grants access to this magical setting, where the combination of botanical wonders and artistic elements creates a serene and inspiring atmosphere.
7:00 PM: After a day of walking, a power nap and a refreshing shower—reportedly one of the best ever—prepare guests for an evening at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant. The roast pigeon, paired with a glass of Domaine Saint Pons Authentique red wine, is described as superb, offering a culinary highlight to cap off the day.
Sunday: Leisure and Departure
9:00 AM: The hotel's breakfast should not be missed, even if one has indulged in wine the previous evening. Selecting a table with a sea view enhances the meal, which includes yogurt, fruit salad, an assortment of breads and pastries, cheeses, meats, and notably fluffy, buttery scrambled eggs that are a standout delight.
12:00 PM: A short walk away, Fragonard's perfume factory offers a free tour of its workshop, where signature duck and rose soaps are crafted. Visitors can learn about the production process and purchase souvenirs, such as a beautiful fig soap priced at £8.70, which is both affordable and fragrant.
6:00 PM: Before departure, a stop at Jamie Oliver's Pizzeria in Nice Airport provides an opportunity to order fizz and admire views of the Mediterranean. The airport caters to the ultra-wealthy clientele from Cannes and Monaco, offering a stark contrast to more budget-friendly airport venues like those at Luton Airport. This final experience underscores the luxurious and scenic nature of the Riviera trip.
