Antibes

Originally known in the ancient world as the Greek town of Antipolis, the quaint seaside of Antibes in the Alpes-Maritmes region on the French Riviera, was said to have been founded before the Christian era (perhaps about 340 B.C.) by colonists from Marseilles.

In the past, Antibes was among the more rustic resort towns that lined the coast of the Riviera, therefore attracting a slew of artists, such as Picasso and later Nicolas de Staël to paint in tranquility. In fact, the Grimaldi chateau (14th and 16th Centuries) has a museum which houses numerous works of the late great cubist Picasso from the time he lived and painted there.
Since its ancient past, the former fortified seaport of Antibes has grown into a trendy sun-lovers magnet in the present day France, attracting both local and international visitors. Locals and travelers usually walk lazily down the sandy beach fronting the Mediterrenean Sea.
Today, the most notable and fashionable resort in the area is Cap d'Antibes. Most nights after the sun sets are spent in the outdoor restaurants and cafes around the port area, the old part of Antibes as well as in the nearby beach area of Juan les Pins. Standard fare would usually be the catch of the day, fresh from the fishing trawlers combing the sea during the day.

After lounging around at its many beach resorts, guests are invited to discover the surrounding countryside either on foot or on bike across its hills. Much perfume distilling is done in Antibes with its abundance of flowers.

French Property