Just a small fishing village until the 1830s when the British aristocracy began to descend – thanks to Lord Brougham who made it his home – Cannes, now of course, is most famous for two short weeks in May when it hosts its eponymous film festival, Festival de Cannes.
However, the flashiest jewel on the Côte d’Azur continues to draw visitors through the summer, but with soaring temperatures and the thronging streets some may prefer to wait for the crowds to ease and relax in the still fine weather of early autumn.
Villa Azur at Tiara Yaktsa - Image courtesy of Hotel Tiara Yaktsa
Throughout the year too the town sees numerous industry events and conferences take place, bringing together global leaders from various fields, and offers attendees the chance to mix work with some pleasure against Cannes’s stunning backdrop. Including Cannes Lions in June, which attracts creative communications professionals from all around the globe every year.
Stroll Along La Croisette
From strolling along La Croisette, taking in the sea and sand and passing the ornate facades that line the 2km long promenade which hugs the Mediterranean coast, there is ample opportunity to indulge in the chic boutiques around La Croisette and rue d’Antibes, or explore one of the Grande Dame Hotels to unwind.
Visit Mipcom in October
In October, Le Palais des Festivals plays host to Mipcom from October 17th to October 20th and the 4 days will see the world’s most influential players from the entertainment content industry come together. Here the latest blockbuster programming can be discovered as soon-to-be hit shows are revealed, and new partnerships will be established at this, the key global marketplace for entertainment content, running across all platforms.
Mipcom - Image courtesy of Mipcom
Whether you are coming for Mipcom or just prefer the slightly quieter atmosphere of being out of season there are some wonderful places to stay and some delightful things to explore.
Stay at the Villa Azur
Moroccan-themed Villa Azur by Hotel Tiara Yaktsa is a villa with a breath-taking Riviera backdrop, and inside its rosewater-perfumed halls, forged metal, carved wood and terracotta tiles create a magical escape. Alongside the exquisite interiors are beautiful gardens, an elegant restaurant, and the most attentive of staff.
Villa Azur at Tiara Yaktsa - Image courtesy of Hotel Tiara Yaktsa
Sip Cocktails at The Carlton
Sip cocktails and take in the view on The Carlton’s terrace and enjoy fine dining at its restaurant – or, if the weather stays fine, at its Restaurant de la Plage. And if dining in the middle of it all at The Carlton lived up to the hotel’s long history, why not take the chance to stay in one of the rooms Elizabeth Taylor frequented?
The Carlton Bar - Image courtesy of Carlton Cannes
It is said that Taylor stayed at The Carlton with every one of her husbands, and just as she brought the glamour and romance of Hollywood to the South of France when she visited, this iconic hotel certainly provides that same combination.
Le Suquet Hill
Away from La Croisette venture to the old town around Le Suquet hill. Here fisherman still work, though there are plentiful shops, bars and restaurants that would have looked out of place when the village’s livelihood depended solely on the daily catch.
These new additions sit comfortable on the old steep and winding streets, with the excellent bouillabaisse at Auberge Provençale da Bouttau one dish to seek out in particular.
Another more hidden gem is just a 15-minute walk away at Le Cannet, where the charming Musée Bonnard, dedicated to the work Pierre Bonnard, the founding member of the avant-garde painters Les Nabis provides a wonderful distraction.
So, whether coming to do business or looking to eat, shop and stroll in the glorious autumn sun, Cannes offers an ideal slice of the quintessential French Riviera life. Fly straight in to Cannes Mandelieu airport or land at Nice Airport, known for its picturesque views and in-house shopping arcade.
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