The Jardin Exotique de Monaco Reopens in Late Summer 2025

 

After extensive renovations, the Jardin Exotique de Monaco is set to reopen to the public at the end of summer 2025.

Closed since the start of the March 2020 lockdown, the Exotic Garden is expected to welcome visitors once again. Monaco’s mayor, Georges Marsan, confirmed this timeline in the municipal magazine Monaco Vivre ma Ville. “The end of summer 2025 will mark the reopening of this unique site, cherished by Monegasques and the many tourists who visit our country,” he stated.

The renovation project initially began for technical reasons, primarily to secure unstable rocks and replace footbridges. However, the scope of work expanded, delaying the reopening for three consecutive years. “We used this opportunity to enhance the site and completely renovate it, including the entire upper section and courtyard,” explained the mayor. This redesigned area will provide more options for hosting private events like weddings, with features such as a new bar to accommodate guests.

The Prince’s Government funded the renovation, while the Town Hall focused on the upper section. Throughout the project, the Botanical Center remained active, and gardeners diligently maintained and protected the park’s plant species “with the greatest care,” assured the mayor.

Nice Upgrades Tram Network for Better Westside Links

 

As of January 6th, travelers in Nice have been adapting to a revamped tram network aimed at improving links between the city center and its rapidly growing western suburbs. The updated routes and schedules are designed to reduce wait times, enhance access to key areas like the Eco Valley, and support the needs of an expanding population.

While the changes aim to create a more connected future for the city, the adjustments come with challenges. Some travelers may face disruptions due to canceled stops and modifications to well-used routes, raising concerns about short-term inconvenience despite the long-term goals.

Until recently, Ligne 2 connected Port Lympia in the east to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport’s Terminal 2, continuing to the CADAM administrative center. That route has now been discontinued.

Four stops—Paul Montel, Les Moulins, Digue des Français, and CADAM—have been removed from Ligne 2. Passengers heading to CADAM must now transfer trams. From the city center, they can take Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to Grand Arénas, where they can switch to the new Ligne B, which now directly serves CADAM.

For travelers from Saint-Isidore to the city center, the changes bring an improvement: no more transfers. Ligne 3 now runs directly from start to finish, with trains arriving every seven minutes.

However, users of the CADAM park-and-ride facility (formerly Charles-Ehrmann) face an added step. They must take Ligne B to Grand Arénas and then transfer to Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to reach the city center. Meanwhile, those using the park-and-ride near Ikea can now travel directly to the city center via Ligne 3.

Speaking to France 3, Gaël Nofri, president of the Lignes d’Azur network and head of parking in Nice, outlined the rationale behind the tram network changes. “We need to connect the western districts of the city to the city centre,” he explained. “This new tramway plan, designed for 20,000 users, will reduce waiting times and improve access to the Eco Valley.”

The overhaul reflects efforts to align the network with the rapid growth of neighborhoods like Saint-Isidore, Méridia, and Plaine du Var. City officials say the updates were informed by attendance studies and consultations with local committees.

While acknowledging potential disruptions, Nofri admitted, “It will probably be necessary to walk a few kilometers from time to time,” but emphasized that the changes aim to deliver a better overall service.

The French Riviera: A Winter Wonderland with a Sunny Twist

 

Just a couple of decades ago, the Côte d’Azur was primarily seen as a summer destination, with travelers flocking to its sun-drenched beaches and then heading home as soon as the season ended. In recent years, however, word has spread, and we locals have noticed a growing trend: visitors are increasingly choosing to explore the region in the early spring or autumn months. Now, post-COVID-19 lockdowns, an even newer trend is emerging—more and more people are discovering the unique charms and benefits of visiting the French Riviera in the winter.

When most people think of the French Riviera, images of glamorous beach days, bustling summer festivals, and the azure waters of the Mediterranean often come to mind. However, this iconic destination transforms into a unique and equally enchanting experience during the winter months. With its mild climate, vibrant winter events, and serene beauty, the French Riviera is a must-visit for those seeking a winter getaway that balances charm, relaxation, and adventure.

300 Days of Sunshine: A Winter Escape Like No Other

One of the most compelling reasons to visit the French Riviera in winter is its incredible climate. Boasting 300 days of sunshine a year, this Mediterranean paradise enjoys mild winters that feel more like a gentle autumn. Temperatures typically hover between 10–15°C (50–59°F), making it perfect for outdoor exploration without the chill of harsher climates. Whether you're strolling through the pedestrian streets of Nice, exploring the picturesque village of Èze, or sipping coffee at a seaside café in Cannes, the Riviera’s winter warmth is a treat.

The clear skies and soft sunlight also offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline and the surrounding mountains. The contrast of the sparkling blue sea against the snow-capped Alps in the distance is a sight that you won’t soon forget.

Festive Winter Carnivals: A Season of Celebration

The French Riviera in winter is alive with colorful festivals and cultural events that bring a festive spirit to the season. Chief among these is the Nice Carnival, one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world. Held every February, this event transforms Nice into a citywide celebration of music, art, and joy. Spectacular parades, elaborate floats, and dazzling light displays make it a vibrant experience for visitors of all ages.

And Queernaval takes place on February 28th.

Another highlight is the Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) in Menton. This quirky yet enchanting event features larger-than-life sculptures made entirely of citrus fruits, accompanied by parades, live music, and a festive market. The creativity and craftsmanship behind these displays are truly remarkable and provide a unique cultural experience.

A Tranquil Escape from the Crowds

Unlike the bustling summer months, the winter season on the French Riviera is peaceful and uncrowded; this offers the opportunity to feel more like a local as well as offering the time to meet more of them. This quieter time allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and charm. Museums, galleries, and historic sites are more accessible, while the streets of popular towns like Saint-Tropez and Monaco are calm and inviting.

For outdoor enthusiasts, winter is an excellent time to enjoy the Riviera’s hiking trails. The Sentier du Littoral (Coastal Path) offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean, while the Parc National du Mercantour provides opportunities for snowshoeing and skiing just a short drive from the coast.

Affordable Luxury

Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy the French Riviera without breaking the bank. With fewer tourists, hotels, restaurants, and villa rentals often offer lower rates, making luxury accommodations and fine dining more accessible. Indulge in the region’s world-class cuisine, from fresh seafood to Provençal specialties, and savor local wines in a relaxed, intimate setting.

A Unique Blend of Sun and Snow

One of the Riviera’s most extraordinary features in winter is the ability to experience both sun-soaked beaches and snowy mountains in a single day. Start your morning with a leisurely seaside breakfast, and by afternoon, you could be skiing or snowboarding in the nearby Alps. This blend of coastal and alpine adventures is a rare combination that few destinations can match.

Conclusion

The French Riviera in winter offers a magical blend of sunshine, culture, and tranquility. With its mild climate, festive carnivals, and opportunities for adventure, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to escape the dreariness of colder climates. Whether you’re a lover of art, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Riviera’s winter charm will leave you captivated. So pack your bags and head to the Côte d’Azur this winter—you’ll discover a side of the French Riviera that’s just as enchanting as its summer splendor, if not more so.

LVMH Expands its Event and Property Portfolio with Acquisition of Cannes Estate

2024 most certainly concludes with significant news in the local luxury real estate market: LVMH, the French luxury powerhouse led by Bernard Arnault, made a remarkable acquisition. This time, instead of adding an exclusive fashion house or jewelry brand to its portfolio, the multinational purchased a stunning €46.5 million villa in Cannes.

The magnificent property is poised to serve as a hub for high-end events and experiential branding—a fitting purpose for such an acquisition. Luxury brands often collaborate with companies like Experience The French Riviera to secure premium rental properties for events ranging from fashion shows and charity galas to exclusive dinners for their most valued clients.

LVMH, the French luxury conglomerate, has purchased Villa Bagatelle, a historic property in Cannes, for around €46.5 million, Bloomberg reports. The sale, reportedly finalized in April, was facilitated by Magrey & Sons, one of our trusted partners.

Built in 1928, Villa Bagatelle is a masterpiece of Art Deco design, featuring 12 bedrooms, three swimming pools—two outdoor and one indoor—and sprawling terraced gardens with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. LVMH, the luxury powerhouse behind brands like Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Moët & Chandon, plans to use the property to host exclusive events during Cannes’ flagship festivals, such as Cannes Lions and the iconic Film Festival.

Additionally, the villa will be available for rental during the summer, when the French Riviera attracts affluent global travelers.

Cannes offers an unparalleled setting for high-profile marketing opportunities thanks to its reputation for hosting sophisticated, large-scale events. The city’s prestigious neighborhoods, including La Californie and Super Cannes, are renowned for their mix of modern and Belle-Époque properties, solidifying Cannes as a hotspot for luxury real estate.

LVMH’s acquisition underscores a growing trend among luxury and fashion brands to invest in real estate for experiential marketing. In 2023 alone, the company spent €2.45 billion on global real estate acquisitions, focusing primarily on retail spaces but also expanding into premium residential and hospitality properties. Other companies involved in the tech and pharmaceutical world have also been investing in luxury real estate since the Covid19 restrictions were lifted.

This move also aligns with LVMH’s broader foray into entertainment, announced earlier this year, which aims to amplify brand visibility through premium film, television, and audio production initiatives.