The French Riviera and the small enclaves of opulence that dot its legendary shores are synonymous with pleasure. The fragrance of lavender permeates the air and the heat is perfectly tempered by the buoyant waters of the Mediterranean. Some of the finest dining in the world can be had here as the coast of Cote dAzur has more than its share of Michelin starred restaurants. French chefs are renowned for their alchemy in the kitchen. Chef Alain Ducasse is one of the most revered chefs in the world and he holds court at Le Louis XV in Monaco. Le Louis XV holds the highest honor of three Michelin stars and lunch reservations during the 2011 Grand Prix range from 420 Euro to 1200 Euro, not including wine. If you can’t get into Louis XV, Ducasse has several other offerings in the area including Spoon at Byblos in St. Tropez.
To swim in this ambiance and make your way from place to place there is nothingquite like the unbridled carnal ferocity of one of the world’s leading sports cars. The Lamborghini LP560 Spyder grips the road and manhandles the highway with its heart stopping 520 horses of power. Its sleek lines slice through the air while dropping the top gives a 360 degree panoramic view of the coast below and the clay and evergreen cliffs above. If the Lamborghini is not your style, then the Bentley GTC may be for you. It combines comfort, cabriolet style, and the classic wood and leather interior that sets Bentley apart from other luxury cars. There really is no other vehicle that offers the tactile response of a Bentley. Often, drivers will look for something more discreet. The Mini Cooper S Cabriolet or the Lexus LS 600 Hybrid offer luxury and fuel economy, a rare yet excellent combination. Don’t limit yourself to the run-of-the-mill car rental, as there are specialty suppliers ready and willing to fulfill your needs. There are suppliers based out of Monaco, Nice, and Cannes, but they will deliver to almost any hotel or villa on the Rivera including the five star Chteau Htel de la Messardire in St. Tropez. The Chteau offers all the necessary amenities including a spa and a private hill side park.
The myriad of opportunities available to enhance your stay on the French Riviera is practically limitless. The ones I have mentioned are all overland, but as it is the French Riviera, yacht rental or a simple one-day boat excursion should always be considered to immerse yourself in the full experience. These service can always be arranged throughthe concierge at your accommodations. Luxury knows no limits on the Riviera!
