Of course, we can say that the climate, sunshine and beautiful landscapes play one of the most important roles, but why Cannes and not another place on the French Riviera?

Set between Nice and Saint-Tropez, Cannes is in a prime position to benefit from the vast coastline and the range of activities and locations on offer. Just down the road you have the quiet peninsula of Cap d’Antibes or you can dive into the Carnival atmosphere of Nice or the historic hilltop towns on Mougins and Valbonne. And don’t forget in winter you can ski and swim in the sea in the same day! The options are endless and I think this is one reason the location keeps people returning.

When I retire, I will probably move closer to the mountains, or the hinterland, but today, Cannes for me remains an ideal place to live.

There is such choice, such opportunity, such atmosphere that you are never short of things to see, do and new places to go. 

There may be a real buzz about Cannes but that doesn’t mean it’s all go. The city offers parks, vistas and quiet corners galore so this is a real city of differences and that appeals to my senses 100 percent. And the differences don’t stop there, the architecture of Cannes matches the city’s persona, a heady mix of elegance, intrigue, contemporary style and old school glamour galore.

Formerly a small fishing village, the city of Cannes is now known as the world capital of cinema and the city of the "Stars", especially thanks to the Film Festival and various international events. Indeed, every May you can rub shoulders with the stars at the famous Cannes film festival as the city is taken over with a really magical atmosphere. This appeal attracts many tourists, which is beneficial for the city's economy and brings a great return on rental investment options.

Cannes is divided into several areas, the main ones being Le Suquet (the historic Old Town), the city centre (also called La Banane), La Croisette, Pointe Croisette, Palm Beach, La Californie, Super Cannes and La Croix des Gardes. 

The most sought-after areas remain La Californie and Super Cannes with their sublime luxury villas, La Croisette and Pointe Croisette with their superb apartments and prestigious penthouses. 

You can not beat a simple stroll on La Croisette, watching out to sea from the famous blue chairs or exploring the shopping streets of La Croisette, Rue d’Antibes and Rue du Commandant André with many idependant boutiques but for me, my favorite place to be is Le Suquet.

The oldest part of the city with its  narrow streets and medieval houses, perched fort, famous Sea Museum and the esplanade; La Suquet shows the historic heart of Cannes and offers breathtaking views. The Rue Saint Antoine is full of beautiful and charming restaurants, as well as bars with a very cosy and warm atmosphere and inviting anytime of the year.

However the Croisette draws the crowds and the high dining options of Vesuvio one of the best Italian, Le Voilier with a mixed cuisine and perfect for people watching or one of the beach restaurants will never disappoint.

And you cannot forget the beautiful hotels such as The Carlton and The Majestic which have so much to offer tourists and residents alike – here you have the best spas, supper clubs, private beaches and boutiques.

To live, I prefer the Palm Beach area, a little set back from the city centre, allowing you to enjoy the peace and quiet during the summer season yet ready to dive into the action. Although this property in the hills above Cannes has truly stolen my heart! 

Yet, it is impossible to talk about Cannes without mentioning «Les Iles de Lérins » - the pearls of the city. The Sainte Marguerite with its famous restaurant La Guérite “Fort Royal” full of mysteries and legends, and the Ile de Saint Honorat with its monks who produce their own wine.

And maybe they have managed to bottle the secret to this wonderful city, a city formed from historic roots which reinvents itself with fun and festivities but never strays from the elegant notes which keep you guessing.

If you are looking to buy, rent or sell in Cannes or across the wider French Riviera, do not hesitate to contact our multilingual team.

Our team are proud to call this special part of the world home. Speak to a member of our local team today on cannes@savills.com

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