Nice, capital of the French Riviera, skirts the pebbly shores of the Baie des Anges. Founded by the Greeks and later a retreat for 19th-century Europe’s elite, the city today balances old-world decadence with modern urban energy. Its sunshine and liberal attitude have long attracted artists, whose work hangs in its museums. With vibrant markets and diverse restaurants, it’s also renowned for its food.
After leaving Cinque Terre in Italy with a huge hangover I have spent the day recovering in my accommodation.
The views coming into ice were impressive. The windy roads along the cliff tops which allow views down and across the ocean with beaches that look as if they stretch for miles – absolutely beautiful. The guide on the bus was quick to point out the corner of road where Grace Kelly was killed in a tragic car accident which she advised was something most people who visit the area are keen to know. A sort distance from there she pointed out Bono’s holiday home which raised everyones spirits pretty rapidly.
While in Nice, I have mostly just relaxed. Spent a few days sunbathing at the pebble beach which I will admit has not been the most comfortable. In the evenings I have enjoyed exploring the little boutique shops, strolling the Promenade des Anglais, which had a very cosmopolitan Riviera vibe, and and seeking out delicious restaurants. I also walked up to Castle Hill for a beautiful view of the city.
Many rich and famous tourists visit Nice every year, but according to a legend, the first visitors were actually Adam and Eve – yes, the ones from the Bible.
As the story goes, after they were kicked out of Paradise for being naughty, they were standing outside the locked gates looking at their new hostile surroundings. Everywhere was barren and inhospitable. They had no idea where to go or what to do. Then they heard the sound of rustling wings, looked up to see a band of angels flying overhead motioning to them. The angels flew across the waters and hovered over a certain spot – they were showing the couple a glorious bay, in front of a land that was as lush and beautiful as the Eden they could no longer enter. That place was on the French Riviera and according to the legend that is how the lovely bay which fronts Nice got its name, the “Baie des Anges” (Bay of Angels).
Controversially, Menton, a city just down the coast from Nice, also claims this legend, with one addition. Apparently when Eve left the Garden of Eden she took a lemon with her. She was looking for a place worthy of the lovely fruit and when she saw Menton she left the lemon there. Menton is known for its lemons and has a wonderful lemon festival every year.
The bright blue water that gave the Cote d’Azur its name is reason enough to visit Nice and explore the French Rivera – beautiful place.