I love the lesser known French Riviera cities. While Nice and Cannes have a certain caché, it’s the smaller destinations that have my heart. While visiting Villefranche-sur-Mer, we also explored Èze and Beaulieu-sur-Mer. I admit that Beaulieu really wasn’t on my radar, but I’m so glad we decided to check it out. We had no plans other than to explore it and find a nice lunch spot, but I managed to come up with a few things to do and see in beautiful Beaulieu-sur-Mer, if you find yourself traversing the Côte d’Azur anytime soon.
Watch my reel featuring Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, and Beaulieu-sur-Mer here!
Getting to Beaulieu-sur-Mer
We stayed at the Welcome Hotel in Villefranche-sur-Mer, which made being on the waterfront quick and easy (not to mention taking advantage of the Mediterranean views). You could take the train or probably take an Uber to Beaulieu, but why do that when you’re surrounded by such beauty? We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the water, taking about 45 minutes to an hour from start to finish. It’s so worth it, just be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Don’t be in a rush to get to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Enjoy stopping for photos, listening to the gentle waves washing over the rocks, smile at sunbathers and children playing in the surf, and just breathe in that French Riviera air! The walk from Villefranche to Beaulieu is almost meditative.
Beaulieu-sur-Mer
It is definitely worth spending the day in Beaulieu-sur-Mer. It can be much less touristy than neighboring riviera towns like Nice. If you desire to feel like a local, Beaulieu is the place for you. The first thing I noticed was that while Villefranche-sur-Mer has a rustic laid back atmosphere, Beaulieu has a bit more “polish and posh” to it, while still keeping a casual vibe. Beach clubs with crisp white umbrellas dot the soft sandy beach and the marina has its share of luxury boats. In town you’ll find plenty of cafes to stop for rosé or enjoy a delicious Mediterranean meal.
We visited Beaulieu-sur-Mer on a Saturday, which means the big market is in full swing on the main square. Fruit, vegetable, and cheese vendors intermingle with stalls selling sundresses, woven tote bags, and scarves. I was in heaven, of course. I picked up a striped sundress perfect for our upcoming trip to Mykonos.
It was a bit chilly to be on the beach, but we enjoyed just walking through town. After the market we walked to the Olive Garden, a natural park with an olive grove of 100-year old olive trees. We had the entire garden to ourselves but could imagine escaping here on a blanket for a respite just steps from the sea. Another beautiful spot for relaxing is Verdun Square. There are benches facing the sea and you’re surrounded by exotic plants of all kinds.
Next to Verdun Square is La Rotonde, designed by Gustave Eiffel. He made Beaulieu-sur-Mer his winter home in 1896. I love the details in Belle Epoque architecture that we’ve seen in Paris, and La Rotonde is a beautiful example of this style.
We enjoyed lunch at Le Traiteur des Halles, which is right on the main square. The food was delicious and you’ll have a front row seat to all the Saturday market activity.
For our return trip to Villefranche, we hopped on the train just as it was pulling into the station!
I hope you enjoyed this little guide to beautiful Beaulieu-sur-Mer!
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xo – Erin
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