5 minute read
Escapes
Cannes uncovered
Advertisement
LuxLife goes behind the scenes to discover all the city has to offer
Famous for hosting the annual Cannes Film Festival, it is all too easy to discount this charming French city when planning a European vacation. But once the cameras stop flashing and the celebrities depart, there is still plenty to be enjoyed, from the beautiful beaches and cultural sights to the designer bars and couture shops.
The wealth and glamour of the city cannot fail to impress. Ferraris and Porsches line the streets, the golden beaches are surrounded by luxurious resorts, while at the port, visitors will discover mega yachts and no end of fine dining venues.
With wonderful weather, a quaint old quarter, a bustling bay and the famous beaches benefitting from a serious overhaul, a trip to Cannes is an absolute must.
FINDING THE RIGHT ROOM
Cannes is home to some of the best hotels in the world that have welcomed an array of famous guests. The InterContinental Carlton Cannes was a favourite of the late Hollywood star Elizabeth Taylor and remains a firm favourite among those seeking a luxurious stay. Alternatively, the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic is situated on the famed Promenade de la Croisette and faces the Palais des Festivals, the home of the Cannes Film Festival. Boasting a private beach and an exceptional spa, it is also the best place to spot a celebrity. Meanwhile, Le Grand Hotel Cannes offers guests spectacular ocean views and delectable Michelin-star cuisine.
ESSENTIAL ATTRACTIONS
In the city’s old neighbourhood, Le Suquet, visitors will discover Musée de la Castre and the Eglise Notre-Dame d’Espérance. Both the ancient castle and the picturesque church are well worth exploring, while the small hill they sit on offers spectacular views across the rest of the city.
Located next to Le Suquet is Le Vieux Port, a marina that is home to some of the world’s most impressive boats and yachts. There are also numerous cafés from which to admire the amazing vessels while indulging in some traditional French cuisine. Or for a true taste of Cannes, head to Marche Forville where you can pick some local cheese and artisan bread.
The port also offers a ferry to Ile Sainte-Marguerite, an island famed for its fortress prison where the so-called Man in the Iron Mask was held.
A trip to the Palais de Festival, a huge warehouse-type complex housing cinemas that are used during the Cannes Film Festival, is also an absolute must. Here you can pose for pictures on the famous entrance to the concrete bunker before exploring the Allée des Étoiles du Cinéma, Cannes’ version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In the evening, take a stroll along the Promenade de la Croisette that allows you to appreciate both the oceanfront Art Deco-style hotels and the memorable sea views. And because no trip to Cannes is complete without a spot of shopping, head to the Rue d’Antibes to discover all things design and fashion.
THE SHOPPING LIST
As you would expect from such a glamorous destination, Cannes has no shortage of designer shops, perfumeries and boutiques. For those seeking upmarket brands, Boulevard de la Croisette has stores from famous names such as Gucci, Armani and Prada, and is undoubtedly the strip to be seen on.
Alternatively, Rue d’Antibes is home to upmarket high street shops and is one of the busier avenues in the city. This is also the ideal area for those seeking exclusive perfumes and chic designs by fashion’s rising stars. And due to its popularity, there are plenty of cafés and bars where you can take a well-needed break or simply watch the world go by.
DINE IN STYLE
With Cannes being big on luxury, it is no surprise that the dining scene in this relatively small resort city is bursting at the seams. There are award-winning restaurants, chic dining rooms and al fresco venues with amazing panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Perhaps the very best, though, is La Palme d’Or, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant decorated in Art Deco style and serving outstanding seasonal dishes. Located within the Grand Hyatt Hôtel Martinez, it boasts a ‘movement’ menu that features oysters, fillet of lamb and a choco pigeon tartlet.
Another venue that currently holds two Michelin stars is Villa Archange, which is located in a charming 18th-century building just 10 minutes from the Promenade de la Croisette. At the helm is chef Bruno Oger who has developed a special US$250 La Tables des Anges menu, which includes roasted langoustine, veal knuckle and a chocolate dessert. This intimate venue is a favourite among residents in Cannes and features just 26 seats that overlook a private courtyard.
For a true taste of the Mediterranean, head to the sun-soaked terrace at Le Park 45. Looking out across a manicured garden, the restaurant offers a series of tasting menus, including the six-course Clair-Obscur that features baby squid, sea bass and lamb dishes. For vegetarians, there’s even a separate menu option with dishes such as white beans, summer truffles and apricots.
CANNES FILM FESTIVAL
Founded in 1946, the festival takes place every May and previews new films of all genres, including documentaries from all over the world. Introduced in order to “draw attention to and raise the profile of films”, the aim of the event is to celebrate all kinds of cinema. The most prestigious award given at Cannes is the Palme d’Or (Golden Palm) for the best film, which has been won by acclaimed directors such as Ken Loach for I, Daniel Blake, Roman Polanski for The Pianist and David Lynch for Wild at Heart.
