Have your best Indian Summer ever on the
French Riviera
While many travelers
pack up their swimsuits and head home after August, the French
Riviera quietly slips into its most glorious season: the Indian
Summer. The period from mid-September through October offers a
spectacular golden encore. Mild weather and breathtaking sunsets
make it the perfect time to enjoy a luxury villa and explore the
region. Here is your guide to savoring the Riviera's best-kept
secret.
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1. Not to be missed
activities !
Get the Beach all to yourself
Don't let the calendar fool you ! The sea stays
perfectly warm well into October, a beautiful consequence of
heating up all summer.
- Laze in Luxury: Head to the famous beaches of Cannes or
Saint-Tropez. You'll find prime sunbeds instantly available at
beach clubs that were impossible to book in August. The service is
better, and the vibe is more relaxed.
- Take a Dip: The air temperature is perfect for sunbathing,
usually hovering between 20∘C and 25∘C (68∘F and 77∘F). You can
swim without immediately needing to retreat into the shade.
- Sail Serenely: Chartering a boat in September is a dream. The
seas are often calmer, and you can anchor in the stunning coves
around Cap Ferrat or the Îles de Lérins without competing with
dozens of other vessels. We work with amazing partners, don't
hesitate to reach out!
Explore the Hilltop Villages Without the
Sweat !
The intense summer heat can make strolling through
the winding, cobblestone streets of the Riviera's picturesque
villages can be challenging at times. Indian Summer changes
that.
- St-Paul-de-Vence: Wander the ancient ramparts of this artistic
village and enjoy lunch at a legendary spot like La Colombe d'Or
without fighting the crowds for a table or feeling overheated.
- Èze: Hike up to the exotic garden overlooking the sea in Èze.
In summer, the path is brutal; in autumn, it's a refreshing climb
that rewards you with breathtaking views in perfect clarity.
Indulge in Authentic Provençal
Flavors
Autumn is harvest season in France, and the
Riviera's regional markets come alive with a bounty of fresh
produce and seasonal goods.
- Taste the Grape Harvest: This is the prime time for wine
tourism. Visit vineyards in the Var region (like those around
Bandol or in the back-country of Nice) to witness the vendanges
(grape harvest) firsthand. Many estates offer special autumn
tasting menus.
- Hit the Markets: Spend a morning at the Cours Saleya Market in
Nice or the Antibes Marché Provençal. You'll find seasonal
mushrooms, fresh olives, and, crucially, fewer tourists blocking
the stalls.
Embrace the Riviera's Cultural
Side
When the heat is less demanding, you'll be more
inclined to spend time indoors exploring the Côte d'Azur's
world-class museums and galleries.
- Art Immersion: Spend an afternoon exploring the Musée Picasso
in Antibes, the Fondation Maeght in St-Paul-de-Vence, or the Musée
Matisse in Nice. You will appreciate the art in peace.
- Hiking and Cycling: The cooler climate transforms the coastal
paths and inland routes into a paradise for active travel. Explore
the Sentier du Littoral along the Cap d'Antibes or cycle through
the hills-it's scenic, exhilarating, and perfectly temperate.
2. Don't just
visit the French Riviera
Live its most beautiful season from your
own private residence !
As an agency specializing in the finest luxury
villa rentals across the South of France, we curate properties that
offer the space, privacy, and amenities required to fully
appreciate the Riviera's autumnal magic-from secluded domains in
Provence to seafront masterpieces on the Côte d'Azur.
Explore our hand-picked collection of Indian
Summer villas and secure your escape today : www.cdvillas.com
Our top villa
recommendations
Seaside Villas :
Perfect for sunset views and easy beach access.
Villa Solar, A very pleasant
villa located close to the beach and nightlife of Juan les
Pins.
Villa Neela, acharming 3-bedroom
villa is a true haven of peace in one of the most sought-after
locations in Cap d'Antibes, just a stone's throw from the
beaches.
Villa Belle de Tahiti , A VIP
property designed by François Villecroze, located in a private
estate, 5 minutes from the centre of Saint Tropez and close to the
beaches of Pampelonne, Les Salins and Les Canoubiers.
Villa Turquoise, located on
the seafront, the villa offers breathtaking sea views, both outside
and inside, and high-quality décor with a unique modern African
touch.
Family-Friendly Villas : Spacious
gardens and pools for children to enjoy.
La Bastide du Citronnier,
magnificent family residence with garden, lawn, private heated
swimming pool, 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms plus a second lounge.
Quiet location with views of the countryside within walking
distance of the village of Valbonne.
Villa Jasmine, located just a
few minutes from the centre of Mougins, this exceptional 5-bedroom
villa, decorated with exquisite taste, offers luxury finishes,
great comfort and elegance.
Bastide de la Campane, located
in a quiet residential area of Mougins, this beautifully renovated
old farmhouse offers 8 bedrooms, air conditioning in all rooms and
stunning views of the Estérel mountains and the sea.
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Tips for the Perfect Indian Summer Stay !
1. We recommend just before the summer to book
early to secure the best villas !
2. Take advantage of lower-season rates.
3. Plan your days with a mix of relaxation and
exploration.
4. Don't miss the local gastronomy and wine
experiences.
Make your
Autumn Unforgettable with Côte d'Azur Villas !
