JAD867

I had posted earlier about trekking for two weeks in July, but have scrapped that. Am now staying with a Fodorite in Dordogne for my first stop, and I then plan to hit Provence (perhaps Luberon) for a few days and the balance on the coast. Trying to decide between Cap Ferrat and Antibes- already been dissuaded from Nice and Eze. I read posts about a great walk (posted in 2015 as follows: Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villa Euphrussi de Rothschild
Add: Beaulieu-Sur-Mer into the mix, too)

and that sounds splendid. Just not sure how to best navigate and land in Paris for a flight on the 19th. Already been to Paris and not trying to spend time there this trip, but I assume I should head back on the 18th and sleep there. I land on July 6th.

So- I was thinking perhaps Dordogne for 6th-10th, then be at the beach 10th-14th, then up to Provence region for 15-18th. All of this is flexible. Not renting a car, so need towns where I don't need one. Input appreciated.

DebitNM

we walked from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Villa Euphrussi de Rothschild due to a train strike.

I am not sure the route you want to take; but we found it less than enjoyable walking along the main road, lots of cars going whizzing by.

Underhill

Un-dissuade yourself from skipping Nice, which is a beautiful, vibrant city with much to see and do.

The walk around St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is really good, and you can also take in the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. The mansion is filled with art and artifacts, and the little tea room has gorgeous views. There are 7 different gardens, each in a particular style.

Tulips

The walk around Cap d'Antibes is nice too. Start at Plage de la Garoupe and to a tour, or continue to Juan les Pins and take bus back.

More inland there's a hike between Gourdon and Bar sur Loup.

July 14th is high season and very busy everywhere on the Cote d'Azur.

JAD867

Thanks for the great insight! Still in planning stages so it's very helpful to read all of these posts.

thursdaysd

I love Nice, and it makes a great base, but in July? Of course, I would skip the whole Riviera in July....

The walk around Cap Ferrat is very scenic (well, the west side, at least), and add Villa Kerylos to the Villa Ephrussi.

welltraveledbrit

I agree with Thursday I was just going to say the same - add the Villa Kerylos just such a wonderful place. If you're interested I wrote a short blogpost with pictures here

http://www.somuchmoretosee.com/2011/...ote-dazur.html

We've visited the Luberon at variety of different times over the years. For whatever it's worth when we were there in August we found it was almost entirely French and other European guests at the hotel. In the spring and fall we've run into more Americans.

JAD867

Thanks. July timing is to take advantage of the slow pace at work around the 4th... welltraveledbrit wasn't sure if you preferred the European crowd or if you enjoy running into Americans, but as for me, I am trying to immerse myself as much as possible to practice my very rusty French. I am not wedded to the Riviera, and given my start in Dordogne, I likely should re-think the remainder of my itinerary. I realize I need to get on it! Just SO not a planner

thursdaysd

If you are starting in the Dordogne, how about the Basque country?