For those who don’t like skiing, the French Riviera offers beautiful days by the water in the winter.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is one of the locals’ favorite weekend destinations. This lovely peninsula has many trails, most of which run along the water—perfect for walks with family, friends, or even on your own: the views are spectacular.
You can also relax at one of the many restaurants or cafés, either on the square or at the harbor.
Here are my favorite spots and places in this dreamy destination:
For the more active among you—those who want to head straight out to explore the trails—feel free to buy a Pan Bagnat at the Boulangerie du Port, They make them with local olive oil, and they’re delicious even in winter (€4.80).
Be sure to try a slice of homemade tarte Tatin—it’s delicious. There’s also a wide selection of cakes and some excellent walnut treats.
You absolutely must try the “La Saint-Jeannoise” baguette. Invented and made exclusively in this bakery by Pascal Bonfigli, this baguette is a huge hit. Its secret: it’s kneaded by hand and then left to rise in a proofing bin, which means it’s still delicious the next day and gives it a unique nutty flavor (thanks to a little rye and salt added to the flour—but shh…).
Socca lovers will be in heaven—it’s delicious at the village square (€3 per slice). You can enjoy it on a bench, basking in the sun, with a view of the boats and the sea.
You can start your morning with a walk to the lighthouse. You’ll pass by Les Fosses Beach to reach the trail that runs along the coast.
This very easy trail, which is almost entirely flat, will take you through exceptional scenery with breathtaking views of the endless sea.
Before reaching the lighthouse, you can quench your thirst with pure, delicious water from the Coexist Fountain, a fountain that promotes peace among the three major religions.
As you make your way back down from the lighthouse, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view.
To help you find your way, feel free to check the signs that indicate the direction and duration of the walk. That way, you can choose the route that best suits your preferences.
For those who prefer to sit down at a restaurant after a nice walk, I recommend Léo Léa, “Sur le Port,” a bar, lounge, and restaurant run by a French-Colombian couple, Morgane and Juan—the latter a former Ducasse employee. Beef lovers will be in heaven.
In the winter, come have lunch or dinner in the chalet set up on the terrace—just like when you’re on a ski trip… really nice!
On weekends, you can choose between a set meal or a burger menu, followed by a selection of delicious desserts (all for €7.50).
To help digest your meal, you can then take the walk that starts at Paloma Beach and goes all the way around—it’s especially nice in the afternoon because of the sun’s position. There are breathtaking views there as well, and you’re always surrounded by the sea and nature.
As you wander around, you’ll discover unusual and unique places that will make you want to come back. A must-do.
“Nature is eternally young, beautiful, and generous. She holds the secret to happiness, and no one has ever been able to take it from her.” Georges Sand
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