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How best to describe the French Riviera, well 'wow' seems like a good way to start; it is truly stunning.
We approached from the west, and so had to pass through the French Alps, which were impressive on their own. They are like a colossal wall separating the coastal cities of the Riviera from the plains of southern France.
The roads visibly began to slope upward, and no sooner had we seen them waiting gracefully on the horizon, we were sucked in to their clutches. All sense of direction was lost as the gentle peaks encircled us, removing both are path and destination from us.
Eventually the road levelled off, and as we began to circle around one particular mountain, the tree line broke and allowed us a first glimpse at the Riviera. From this height we could see whole town's laid out before us, and the Mediterranean gently lapping at their backs.
Then began the descent, and we where soon close enough to be able to make out the large houses that where seeming placed at random spots in the lower hillsides. Each building looked completely unique when completely unique when compared to others in view, and never were two levels.
Our base whilst in the Riviera is in Antibes, and as it was relatively late on in the day when we arrived, it was the only place I got to explore today.
Fortunately we're based quite centrally, so getting around by foot was quite easy. After a short walk around, I headed towards the beach; and was surprised to find it made up completely of stones. Apparently that is a trait of a lot of the beaches along the Côte d'Azur, including Cannes and Nice; which I'll explore in the coming days. (Any sand beach is man-made)
Antibes is a pretty standard resort town; with pretty impressive surroundings. It has a funfair, and an out door go-kart track (Which was fun! Even after one of our group forgot how to drive and ended upside down with the kart on top).
However, as with anywhere; a short walk beyond the regular tourist route will take you to the real Antibes. The town was once fortified, but even though much of the old fortifications have been destroyed, there are still some signs of them throughout the town.
The harbour is worth walking along given its size you are bound to see some nice yachts either docked or cruising by. There are also a number of museums' in Antibes, including a Picasso museum; however I didn't visit any this time round.
Another option would be to visit the perfumery (I forget the name) not far from here. It is situated at a higher point, looking over the coast, under the gaze of an interesting looking church (which is sat on a ledge not much bigger than the church itself). It didn't appeal to me, but for people in the area who may wish to purchase perfume and aftershaves at factory cost it's worth a visit. We entered for free, but I understand there is a small entrance fee normally. But that pays for a guided tour of the factory; and talk on how the perfumes are made.
That's all for today's entry, the journey here was quite long; and I want to make the most of tomorrow so it'll be a quite(ish) night.
Carl.
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