From Monaco With Love
Rebecca Whitlocke, founder of Antibes Yachting, says the French Riviera is a top choice for superyacht charters so why not kill two birds with one stone discovering the coast while at the Grand Prix?
Monaco has always been linked with prestige, serving up a combination of superyachts, five-star hotels, the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, the Prince’s Palace and highprofile events. This year, the Principality hosts the Historic Grand Prix from May 10-12 and the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix from May 23-26.
Motor racing enthusiasts have plenty to see and do: They can experience a private visit to Prince Rainier III vintage automobile museum, dress in their finest evening wear for a night at the Casino de Monte-Carlo or marvel at the sheer logistics of how a country turns its streets into one of the world’s iconic race circuits.
After the thrilling action from qualifying and the main Grand Prix race, Monaco throws first-class parties that draw in Grand Prix fans, A-list guests, and even the pilots themselves.
With a prime location right by the circuit, head to La Rascasse for a chance to mingle and spot the racing elite. Sass Café, serving Mediterranean-style food, is another hotspot for VIPs; once dinner is over, the venue morphs into a nightclub. Don’t miss Lilly’s Club at the Fairmont Monte Carlo or Sunset at Le Méridien Beach Plaza for electrifying Monaco Grand Prix after parties!
Post-Grand Prix, the superyacht crowd leaves Port Hercules - often in search of less high-octane activities such as relaxing afternoons at anchor, or swimming in the crystal-clear Mediterranean. Many yachts take the short cruise towards the Cap Ferrat peninsula and head to Paloma Beach for lunch (reservations necessary) with a beautiful view across the bay to the limestone cliffs overlooking Cap d’Ail. In business since 1948, Paloma Beach is a famous landmark on the French Riviera and known as the ‘beach of the stars’. Other hotspots include Anjuna Beach, with its Balinese-inspired decor and beach club ambience, or venture to the perched village of Éze, with spectacular panoramic views from the hilltop cactus garden — don’t miss making a reservation at Mas Provençal, where dinner tables are nestled under a floral canopy bedecked with orchids, ivy, crystals and vintage birdcages.
The pleasant seaside town of Saint-JeanCap-Ferrat makes a nice stopover, where you can visit the historic Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild nearby. This Belle Epoque Villa is a focal point for destination weddings, and has seen its fair share of exclusive galas and cocktail parties set amidst its nine themed gardens. Go there for the wonderful views of Villefranche-sur-Mer and, to the east, you spot Monaco’s buildings rising tall in the distance. Inside the Villa, you’ll see rare
porcelain collections, furniture dating from the Louis XVI era, and Marie-Antoinette’s writing desk in the boudoir.
Further west, Saint-Tropez is emblematic of the southern French charm. Previously a fishing village, notwithstanding the luxury yachts, it carries off a relaxed charm that attracts celebrities and locals alike. “Superyacht owners and guests go there for shopping or to visit the beach clubs at
“Whether you’re drawn to the glitz and glamour or crave a laid-back yet chic getaway, the French Riviera caters to all tastes.”
Pampelonne. However, there’s more to discover, says Dee Momi, Founder and Client Manager at Seven Access. “Saint-Tropez is a wonderful destination that combines style, gastronomy and cultural experiences. Helicopter excursions are very popular, but be advised that demand for sightseeing tours and transfers during May is high so you must prebook. Treat your friends and family to a helicopter flight over the stunning Porquerolles before enjoying a private tour of contemporary art work at Fondation Carmignac and an exploration of the vineyards. Alternatively, take a helicopter to Château La Coste and experience an art and architecture walk, followed by a tasting workshop with lunch or dinner at Chef Hélène Darroze’s restaurant Villa La Coste, 1 Michelin star.”
If you’re looking for the best-of-the-best, exploring the French Riviera and Monaco by yacht is the perfect way to wrap up your Grand Prix adventure with a taste of the finest in luxury, glitz and glamour.