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Things to do in Nice

Follow in the footsteps of a famous French philosopher

The French Riviera is not all watery thrills; in fact some of the best days out require no money at all. Coastal walks to the east of Nice offer endless sea views and beautiful mountain backdrops. Follow in the footsteps of Nietzsche: the philosopher's trail, Nietzsche's Path, runs from Nice to Èze.

Go wreck diving in the Cote d’Azur

The Cote d’Azur has some fantastic dive sites and Nice is an ideal place to base yourself if you want to explore them. There are some great wrecks and caves nearby, which suit a wide range of abilities from novices to advanced divers. Nice Diving (tel:+33 614 460 406; www.nicediving.com) offers beginner courses and excursions.

Keep your balance with some wakeboarding

The azure waters of the Mediterranean are the ideal place to discover wakeboarding. The learning curve may be wet but at least it's warm. Nice-based Glisse Paradise (tel: +33 618 294 618; www.glisseparadise.com) offers lessons for beginners and tours for experienced wakeboarders. For those who fancy something a little more futuristic, the operator also rents Flyboards.

Pull a pose on a jet ski

In many ways the jet ski is a metaphor for Nice; flashy, brash, and frivolous. And if you’d like to scythe your way through the water like some of the local posers then speak with Jet Evasion (Tel: +33 619 546 678; www.jet-evasion.net). If you want the thrill without the posturing, they also offer banana boat rides. 

Take a picturesque ride to Digne-les-Bains

For an easy day trip, hop on the 151km (94-mile), narrow-gauge 'Pine Cone Train' for one of Provence's most picturesque rides to Digne-les-Bains. The medieval village of Entrevaux makes a good lunch stop.

Wine tasting in Bellet

High in the hills, 9km (5 miles) northwest of Nice, is the tiny wine-producing area of Bellet. You can tour the picturesque vineyards before indulging in a tasting. Outstanding estates include Chateau de Bellet and Château de Crémat.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Hotel Negresco

The most exclusive address in town is an old but not fusty place that has elegantly idled by the Promenade des Anglais since 1913. Recent major refurbishments have kept this grande dame ahead of the game, but the antiques and furniture collectables angle the atmosphere towards a bygone era.

Westminster Hotel & Spa

This good-value 4-star is one of the more affordable grand old waterfront hotels. All the usual perks including a private beach and wonderful belle époque architecture are covered at the Westminster with minimum fuss. Be sure to book a sea-view room for breakfast on the Promenade des Anglais terrace.

Spity Hotel

On the site of the former Hi Hotel, this chic accommodation maintains the former’s emphasis on elegant and ultra-modern design. Within one of the 38 sleek, industrial bedrooms, you’ll find lava stone tubs and neon walk-in showers. Amenities include an organic breakfast buffet, private beach, day spa, lounge bar, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of Nice.

 

Hôtel Nice Beau Rivage

At only a two-minute walk from the seafront and a three-minute walk from Opéra de Nice, its little wonder this chic hotel was once frequented by a number of famous writers and artists. Today, the refurbished building offers a private beach, a whiskey bar, and a classy outdoor lounge for reclining during the summer months.

 

Hotel Villa St Hubert

Although it’s not in the city centre, this homely hotel is close to a tram that leads directly to Place Masséna, making it a great value for your money. Some of the traditionally furnished rooms have balconies with views across the rooftops, and breakfast is served in a charming tree-shaded courtyard.

Palais de la Méditerranée

This beautiful art deco hotel has some of the best views in town, which are best enjoyed from the swimming pool on the terrace above the Promenade des Anglais. Elegant rooms boast smooth contemporary decor and views out over the sea. A sauna, gym, and Turkish bath add to the 5-star allure.