An Artist's Experience of the French Riviera

The coruscating charm of the French Riviera has long cast its spell over artists, serving as both a sanctuary and muse for generations. Suffused in hazy light, which reflects off the cobalt blues of the Mediterranean, this sun-drenched stretch has inspired Monet, Van Gogh and Cézanne. In this guide, our editors take you on a journey through the southern cities that have profoundly shaped, and been shaped by, French Modern Art.

Nice

When Henri Matisse moved to Nice in 1917 and realised that “every morning [he] would see this light again”, he declared he would stay for the rest of his life. His love affair with the city began at the Hôtel Mediterranée, a Rococo-era gem where he painted his enchanting series of the city, including ‘Interiors at Nice’ featuring scenes of cyan shutters, languid figures and sunlit, pink-tiled floors. Stay at the Le Méridien Nice, set on the iconic Promenade d'Anglais, which offers the same dazzling views that once inspired Matisse.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is inseparable from the legacy of Paul Cézanne, its most celebrated artist. From his studio in the Lauves hills, Cézanne immortalised the nearby Montagne Sainte-Victoire in more than 50 canvases, his confident geometric brushwork forever linking the mountain to the city. Marseille, another place he adored, is just half an hour away; for a luxurious stay, the InterContinental Hotel Marseille has sweeping views of Cézanne’s beloved landscapes.

VIEW OF MONTAGNE SAINTE-VICTOIRE

Antibes

Antibes, the ancient fishing village just east of Cannes, has long enthralled artists with its luminous beauty. Claude Monet, mesmerised by the cerulean waters and dazzling sunlight, declared during his stay in 1888 that only a “palette of diamonds and jewels” could capture its essence. Decades later in 1946, Pablo Picasso sojourned here with his lover, staying at Château Grimaldi, a 14th-century Roman fort. Though his time in Antibes was brief, his output was prolific, including ‘La Joie de Vivre’ which ensnares the intoxicating French light.

ANTIBES, A COASTAL TOWN LOVED BY MONET AND PICASSO

Many other French towns have inspired great artists. In the charming Provençal city of Arles, Vincent van Gogh was captivated by its yellow-plastered buildings and sunflowers. Pierre-Auguste Renoir found inspiration in the Arcadian landscapes of Cagnes-sur-Mer, while Paul Signac was drawn to the small fishing village (as it was then) of Saint-Tropez.

For a luxurious stay, book the Hotel Byblos in Saint-Tropez, known for its stunning roof terrace, excellent dining, and turquoise pool. Alternatively, the recently renovated Carlton Cannes offers a taste of old-world glamour.

Book a stay anywhere in the Côte d’Azur on ASMALLWORLD Collection where you will be able to enjoy delicious wine, panoramic vistas and incredible culture.