Les Chemins de Fer de la Provence: Trundling old diesel trains run by this private company ramble up the steep hillsides, delving into Nice's hinterland and the town of Digne-les-Bains, a good day trip option especially in the summer heat (tel: (04) 9703 8080; website: www.trainprovence.com).

Monaco: Less than an hour's drive away (10 minutes by helicopter for those feeling flash) is the moneyed principality. A spin on the roulette wheel at the casino is a bank-busting optional extra, as is a stay at the Columbus Hotel (tel: (377) 9205 9222; website: www.columbushotels.com), part owned by Scottish racing driver David Coulthard. A cheaper option is the waterfront public swimming pool, which becomes an ice skating rink in winter. For more information on Monaco, check out the Columbus Monte Carlo city guide or contact the Monaco Tourist Office (tel: + (377) 9216 6116; website: www.visitmonaco.com).