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We knew that we would enjoy Monte Carlo, well it's the home of the rich and famous after all! We were suprised how developed the area is and the many high rise apartments that covered this area of the French Riviera.
The Monaco Tours land train was waiting for us at the port and took us around Monaco and Monte Carlo. We headed along the road that makes up the Grand Prix track and port area, the seating was under construction for the race in about a months time. The train went up the hillside to the famous Cafe de Paris and Casino, outside we saw some very expensive cars but we didn't spot any celebrities. We stopped at the old part of Monaco to visit the Palace, Cathedral and Museum.
The whole area was under complete renovation ready for the marriage of the Prince of Monaco on July 2nd. We had brunch in a typical french cafe and then walked through the little shops back down to the port for our afternoon trip called "Riviera Panaroma".
We travelled out of Monte Carlo onto the narrow mountain roads (called Corniches), passing the tennis courts where the World Championships where being played that day. We had great views of the sea and coast line below us. Our first stop was at Menton, the last French town before the Italian border. Menton also claims to be the warmest resort on the Riviera. We had an hour to explore the little town with its narrow streets and shops. We had some meringue flavour gelato and bought home made orange and ginger jam. The Menton print shop was open too so we had to pop in and say hello!
The coach climbed high on the mountain roads for views of Monaco and Monte Carlo and we passed the village of Roquebrune, with its imposing castle. Next stop was the old mountain village of Eze. This village is perched high on a hill dating back to the 14th century and is known as Medieval Eze. With its old stone houses and cobbled streets, Eze was like a maze, full of shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars. On the top of the hill is the church of Eze which had wonderfully painted ceilings.
Before we realised it was time for our journey back to the ship and our last port of call tomorrow in Barcelona.
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