Sunday 5 October to Friday 10 October 2025
Nice and the Cote d’Azur
Fine Art on the French Riviera
A 6 DAy/5 Night residential VISIT
Set against a backdrop of deep-blue sea, luscious vineyards and charming rural villages, the wealth of fine art in Nice and on the Côte d’Azur is astonishing. Following a period as a playground for the English aristocracy in the 18th century, la Belle Époque saw a flourishing of artistry in the area, perhaps best encapsulated by the spectacular Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild at Cap Ferrat. Since then, the Côte d’Azur has seen the rise of numerous important museums and collections. This includes the Fondation Maeght, which arguably contains France’s most important collection of modern art.
Our tour brought to life a region saturated with creativity and brimming with cultural heritage, highlighting the most important museums and showcasing prominent collections. Aside from the area’s artistic wealth, there was plenty of time to enjoy the dramatic scenery and architectural gems, from the imposing Château Grimaldi to the picturesque town of St Paul de Vence.
Report by Jane Findley and Sue Keen
A packed programme offering visits to see the best fine art in this stunningly beautiful area seemed an opportunity not to be missed and we were not disappointed! Two gallery or museum visits were organised each day. We were able to spend time quietly admiring the stunning colours of the Matisse and Chagall murals and the work of Picasso in the Chateau Grimaldi where he lived and worked. The Chapel du Rosaire designed and decorated by Matisse was a highlight. We wondered at the inventiveness of so many artists seeking new
forms of expression and the eclectic tastes of rich collectors, visiting the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and Villa Kerylos which had a Greek flavour. We learnt so much from our enthusiastic leader Jenny and our knowledgeable French guide Patricia.
From St Tropez to Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, the coast and the small hill-top towns behind made a glorious backdrop. Our hotel in the centre of Nice was an excellent base for exploring the city, its history and its gastronomy. The timing was ideal with fewer visitors at the end of the season, but plenty of autumn sunshine and the famous Mediterranean light, a thoroughly enjoyable week.
