After we left Marseille, we drove south then traveled east along the coast. Since we visited Nice and Monaco last year, we only drove as far east as Antibes then cut up to the Gorge du Verdon. We knew the drive would be picturesque, but this route has back-to-back jaw-dropping views!
The Côte d’Azur is the original resort area. The British upper class first discovered the picturesque stretch from Cassis to Monaco in the 18th century. English doctors actually directed their patients to winter in the mild, sunny Côte d’Azur to cure diseases such as tuberculosis. I can see how the warm, breezy weather and sunny skies would cure a few ailments!
In the mid-19th century, the new railway system brought wealthy Russians and Europeans to the area. Wealthy Americans and celebrities weren’t far behind, though popularizing the area as a summer destination. By the 20th century, artists and writers began flocking to the coast.
Before it became a seaside resort, the Côte d’Azur was a remote region known for it fishing, olive groves and flowers.
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