Côte d'Azur In the style of the grand era

Day 1: Switzerland - Nice

Outward journey via the Gotthard route and through Italy to the Côte d'Azur and Nice. With the Promenade des Anglais, Nice boasts one of the most famous seafront promenades in the world. It was once the favourite place for strolling among British aristocrats. Today it is a popular meeting place for beach lovers and anyone who enjoys sport or a leisurely walk. Smart convertibles cruise along the palm-lined streets, and luxury hotels await their guests. Look forward to your stay in one of the most famous hotels in the world. (4 nights at Hotel Le Negresco*****).

Day 2: Nice

Walking tour of the old town of Nice. Begin in style at the Cours Saleya and immerse yourself in the inimitable atmosphere of Nice's famous flower market, one of the most extraordinary markets in France. The Italian-style ambience of the old town contrasts with the somewhat eccentric architecture of the Belle Époque. You can enjoy a magnificent view over the maze of the old town from Castle Hill, 100 m high. No city in France outside Paris probably has as many museums. So here you can not only shop to your heart's content but also experience art of every style. Stop at a charming venue such as the Fleur de Café, or head to the beach and relax. You will be spoilt for choice during your free afternoon.

Day 3: St. Paul-de-Vence - Fondation Maeght

Drive to Vence and visit the Chapelle Matisse. Around midday you will reach the enchanting village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence with its countless winding lanes. Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a place that invites dreaming and has already hosted many artists, who were captivated by the fairytale atmosphere of the town and doubtless found some inspiration there too. Here you will also visit the Fondation Maeght with its sculpture garden, an art foundation established by the couple Marguerite and Aimé Maeght. On a special guided tour, you will see one of the most influential private collections of modern art.

Day 4: Villa Rothschild and Eze

Drive to Villa Rothschild with the nine themed gardens of "Ephrussi de Rothschild". The 7-hectare garden is divided by theme and includes a Japanese garden, a Florentine garden, a rock garden, a rose garden, an exotic garden, as well as a Provençal garden and a French garden. The day ends in the enchanting little town of Eze-Village. Enjoy fabulous views of the coast near Villefranche and of Cap Ferrat. The picturesque setting of Eze has always cast its spell on artists and writers. Walt Disney, for example, lived in Eze for a long time, and Friedrich Nietzsche completed the third part of his work "Thus Spoke Zarathustra…" there at the end of the 19th century.

Day 5: Nice - Switzerland

Return journey along the Riviera and via the Gotthard route to Switzerland.

Hotel Negresco and its guests

Since 1998, I have worked in sales at trade fairs and events for the company Bindella-Weine. Naturally, you can also meet me every year at Expovina in Zurich. For several years, I have accompanied groups of wine lovers on wine trips to Italy. Thanks to its variety of culinary and wine delights, Emilia-Romagna is one of my favourite destinations.