What if I was telling you that you could enjoy turquoise sea, beach glamour, water sports, historical architecture and culture, all that in one same location on the French Riviera? Well this is possible in one of my favorite beach spot: Cap d’Ail.
Ranked as one of the best tourism site, Cap d’Ail is located between the sea and the mountain. You can’t ski but you can climb in La Turbie, a charming little village close by, to one of the most amazing spot where I have my picture habits. Go there either by feet or by wheels and take some time to enjoy the view on Monaco and Cap d’Ail you’ll have from there.
The first time I went to Cap d’Ail, I was amazed by the sea color as well as the architecture. Let me give you a tip: there is a way to enjoy both at the same time. Walk along the shore and enjoy some beautiful “Belle-Epoque” villas, some of which have been owned by the Lumières brothers or famous French artists. Seat at one of the tables or directly on the rocks, listen to the sea, open a bottle of rosé and cheer to the sunset. I can promise that if you’re down, it will cheer you up and make you believe again that life is beautiful.
My favorite summer spot is also located in Cap d’Ail: the Mala beach. Going there must be earned. To me it’s clearly French Riviera’s gem. Hidden between the rocks, there is no doubt that this paradise on earth welcomes some of the most beautiful yachts. Indeed, once you arrive there (trust me the best way to arrive at La Mala is to walk along the beach promenade), you will be surrounded by luminous ochre rocks and probably feel like you’re somewhere else than in France. Last time I went there, I truly felt like in a Greek movie.
One private beach I love to go to is La Réserve de La Mala. Every time my Parisian friends come over, I take them there. I know they will love the glamour of the place while enjoying the wild view that the beach offers. Usually, we take a bed for the day, have lunch there and finish the day while dancing on the sofas to the DJ’s music. Imagine yourself in Ibiza but with a more authentic feeling. That’s La Réserve de La Mala.
There are a lot of water sport spots in Cap d’Ail but as you would have understood, the best place to practice any sport is the Mala beach. If you enjoy paddling, pedalo or canoe, Stand up Mala has everything you need. Located on the right side of the beach, it is hosted by Axel who will take good care of you. In less than 3 minutes, he gave me all the tips I needed to be able to paddle. Once I managed to get up on the plank, I paddled to the cave, enjoyed the wonderful view and came back to relax even more!
Another great spot for beach relaxation is Lamparo Plage. From morning to evening, they host their guests with sun beds, restaurant, evening shows and even yoga classes. Check out their Facebook page to know more about their events.
Outside of the beach, Cap d’Ail also has great dance, music or comedy festivals. Featured in July and August at the “Amphithéatre de la Mer” or the “Château des terrasses”, anyone can attend the shows for free.
And if you love art, don’t miss the Villa des Camélias which has some great exhibitions on top of being one of the most beautiful Belle-Epoque villas of the area. It also has some great pieces that explain the history of Cap d’Ail.
Still not convinced? Go have a look at this video and one of French Riviera’s extraordinary natural settings.
In terms of accommodation, Edmond’s is probably the best option. Brand new, it is central, has only 11 rooms so is quiet and also has a restaurant.
If you need any information, reach the Tourism Board of Cap d’Ail by email – tousime@cap-dail.com or phone – 04 93 78 02 33.
