A Midsummer Dream in Nice: Tour de France, Coastal Charms, and French Riviera Delights
As the wheels of our plane touched down in Paris on July 18, 2024 - my birthday - little did I know that our journey to Nice would be filled with unexpected encounters, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences. Join me as I recount our adventure in the sun-soaked French Riviera.
An Olympian Start
Our trip began with a surprising twist. While boarding our flight from Atlanta to Paris, I noticed several athletic men in Team USA attire. A glimpse at a luggage tag revealed the name "Brody Malone." As we waited for takeoff, the cabin door reopened, and in walked the USA Women's Gymnastics Team. Suddenly, the delay didn't seem so bad!
Bonjour, Nice!
After a smooth domestic flight from Paris, we touched down in Nice, greeted by a breathtaking view of the Alps and Côte d'Azur. Our friendly driver helped me brush up on my French as we made our way to the Hotel Boscolo. The staff's warm welcome, complete with birthday surprises in our room, set the tone for our stay.
Tour de France Excitement
The next two days were a cycling enthusiast's dream. We watched the Tour de France teams depart from the Port and camped out at Café de Paris to catch the time trial stage. The electric atmosphere as Tadej Pogačar, wearing the yellow jersey, sped past was unforgettable.
Beach Days and Gourmet Nights
We balanced our active days with relaxation at Le Negresco Beach Club. Pro tip: consider water shoes for the rocky beaches! Evenings were spent savoring exquisite meals at restaurants like Babel Babel, D'Antoines, and Le Plongeoir, each offering unique views and flavors of the Riviera.
(c) Kristen Guinn 2024
Monaco, Èze, and Beyond
A day trip to Monaco felt like stepping into a different world. The parade of luxury cars around Casino de Monte-Carlo was a sight to behold. We then ventured to the charming village of Èze, where a tour of Parfumerie Galimard offered fascinating insights into the art of perfume-making.
Exploring the Coastline
Our adventures took us to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where we marveled at the Villa & Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild before lounging at Plage de Passable. A ferry ride to Villefranche-sur-Mer capped off a perfect day of coastal exploration.
(c) Kristen Guinn 2024
Culinary Farewell
We bid adieu to Nice with a unique dining experience at Cave du Fromage, savoring exquisite wines, cheeses, and charcuterie underground. Remember to bring Euros - it's a cash-only affair!
Paris Bound
Our departure day saw us boarding a first-class high-speed train to Paris. The five-hour journey, punctuated by coastal town stops and a longer pause in Marseille, gave me time to catch up on work (and combat my motion sickness) as the French countryside whizzed by.
Reflections
Nice and the French Riviera offered us a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty. From the excitement of the Tour de France to the tranquility of hilltop villages, every day brought new discoveries. The warmth of the people matched the sunny climate, making our visit truly memorable.
(c) Kristen Guinn 2024
As I look back on this birthday trip, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared and the memories we created. Nice may be in our rearview mirror for now, but its charm will linger in our hearts for years to come.
Stay tuned for my recap of our adventure in the City of Light – Paris: Citius-Altius-Fortius!
