On the Cote d'Azur, rooftop bars are perfectly set up to enhance the exceptional views of the Mediterranean. From Cannes and Nice to Menton, Antibes-Juan-les-Pins and Saint-Tropez, we reveal our favourite spots for drinks with a view.
The most Mediterranean: Les Toits, Saint-Tropez
From the top of the Hôtel de Paris in Saint-Tropez, this rooftop is all about the big blue sea view, all the way to the horizon. The masterful head barman creates uniquely personal cocktails with his own inventive style. Dishes are made using fresh, seasonal and local products. Enjoy admiring the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and its pink-tiled roofs, typical of this resort adored by Brigitte Bardot.
The detail that makes all the difference: the special menu devised each year to accompany the fireworks, which can be watched from the rooftop.
The most partylike: Le Farago on the Roof, Nice
As soon as temperatures begin to rise, the Farago on the Roof at the top of Nice's AC Marriott Hotel comes out to play and celebrate summer. Seated at one of the large wooden tables on the rooftop, guests can share colourful tapas plates in a lounge music atmosphere, while enjoying the spectacular 360-degree view from the Promenade des Anglais to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
The detail that makes all the difference: the gin bar, which reinvents Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald's favourite spirit into new creations. To be enjoyed in moderation, of course, unlike the famous writer couple.
The most fairytale: The Lounge Bar at Hotel Radisson Blu 1835, Cannes
In Cannes, on the 7th floor of the Radisson Blu 1835 opposite the Old Port, cocktails are served with a twist of magic. On the intimate panoramic terrace with designer furniture, get lost in contemplation of one of the most beautiful shorelines on the Côte d'Azur.
The detail that makes all the difference: the panoramic view, which can be enjoyed both on the terrace and inside the restaurant.
The cosiest: The Rooftop Bar of the Quality Hotel Méditerrannée, Menton
The roof terrace at the Quality Hotel Méditerrannée has been revamped and offers a cosy atmosphere at happy hour. The menu notably features a glass of champagne and plate of tapas deal, to be enjoyed alone or with friends, under dim lighting in the soft armchairs. A beautiful spot for gazing out to sea.
The detail that makes all the difference: the 170-square-metre solarium, soaking up all that glorious Mediterranean sunshine.
The most glamorous: Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes
In this elegant setting overlooking the Mediterranean, time seems to have stood still and the magic remains intact. For over 100 years, the Cap-Eden-Roc has been the refuge of many artists and personalities who have fallen under the spell of the Côte d'Azur. Among them have been John Scott Fitzgerald and Marc Chagall, as well as Madonna and Leonardo di Caprio. Carved into the rock, the infinity seawater pool is worth a look on its own. It offers a bird's-eye view of the bay of Cannes, as does the terrace of the Eden-Roc restaurant, which seems to soar like a bow above the waves.
The detail that makes all the difference: the lush parkland and its 100-year-old pine forest, a true haven of peace and a great place for meditation.
By The editor
The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.