Day 3 - Glamorous Monaco and medieval Èze
Our day begins with a coach journey along the Lower Corniche
Road to Monaco. Winding around the coast, clinging to the cliffs,
we can bask in fantastic views of the azure Mediterranean enroute
as it glistens close by.
The world's second-smallest sovereign state, Monaco is renowned
as a playground for the rich and famous with a third of the
population being millionaires and superyachts lining the large
marina of Port Hercule. Affluence is on display across Monaco,
especially around Place du Casino. This is our first stop on a
guided tour as we view the world-famous Monte-Carlo Casino.
On its strategic position on top of a large rock, Le Rocher is
Monaco's Old Town and still retains winding medieval lanes. Since
the 13th century, this has been the stronghold of the Grimaldi
dynasty - the principality's ruling family. Due to the elevated
position, we can also enjoy excellent views across Monaco. Our
guided tour takes in the Palais du Prince, the residence of the
current Prince of Monaco, where we witness the time-honoured
Changing of the Guards ceremony. Following our tour, you have some
free time to look around - maybe have a flutter in the casino or
enjoy a drink in the Café de Paris, Monte Carlo's prime
people-watching spot.
We leave Monaco in the afternoon and stop at nearby Èze, a
delightful medieval village set high on a rocky peak above the
glistening sea. Its labyrinthine lanes are lined with ancient stone
houses, many of which have been converted into galleries or craft
shops. Overlooking the terracotta rooftops sits Èze's ruined castle
and an unusual cactus garden, the ideal spot to look out across the
scenic Côte d'Azur.
We return to Cannes in the evening, where we enjoy a
three-course dinner at a local restaurant.
Includes