Mediterranean Cruise

Villefranche is one of the small beach towns nestled between Nice and Monte Carlo. As the train winds from the two major resorts, each stop along the way looks like a postcard. Villefranche and its neighbors, Beaulieu-sur-Mer and St. Jean Cap Ferrat, are part of what’s known as the Lower Corniches.

Villefranche’s full name is Villefranche-sur-Mer, which literally means “on the sea.” This is not to be confused with Villefranche-de-Rouergue, another French town further inland. There’s no confusion as to what is Villefranche’s main attraction. Unquestionably, people flock here for its beautiful beaches. If you arrive in the summer, you had better stake out your spot on the rocks early, or else you will have no room to lay out your beach mat!

The town’s charm lies in its reclusive exclusivity. Through the years, the small village has enchanted its share of celebrities who wanted to escape the limelight and find virtual anonymity. Beautiful houses have been built into the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, and these neighborhoods make for wonderful places to stroll after a long day soaking up the sun.

In all likelihood, you’ll never leave the beach. Restaurants and shops have sprung up all along the coastline to cater to your every whim, and a day spent in Villefranche should be considered a success if you do as little as possible.