Guide to Menton

Sheltered by the towering Maritime Alps, Menton enjoys one of the mildest spots in Europe and is usually around three degrees warmer than the rest of France. The town is sandwiched between two beautiful bays plus with its pretty port, great beaches and rolling hillsides this sleepy corner of the Mediterranean is postcard-perfect and a relaxing luxury charter stop away from the hedonism of other Riviera towns.

Known for and proud for its citrus offerings, the hills of Menton bloom with oranges and lemons in the winter and sweet scent fills the air for miles around. It is said that Eve planted the first lemon here and the shops are crammed with every lemon based product you can think of along with an annual themed party held each February to celebrate.

With its close proximity to Italy, the French Riviera town has been influenced over time by Italian food making it a must-stop for foodies. The two Michelin starred Mirazur restaurant in particular has put the town on the culinary map and is a regular on the world’s top 50 best restaurant’s list but there are also plenty of smaller restaurants that offer their take on the regions best dishes. Other than the great restaurants, Menton isn’t a place renowned for its party atmosphere though there are a couple of additions to its nightlife that offer cocktails and live music into the night.

The medieval Old Town is known as one of the prettiest in this part of the world where Belle Epoque villas and tropical gardens are dotted around the steep winding streets. Its cultural showpiece is the Jean Cocteau Museum but other sights include the Basilique Saint-Micheland its stunning 18th Century bell tower - the courtyard of which is stage to the Menton’s chamber music festival.

If you are interested in a luxury crewed yachting vacation, begin by viewing and comparing all yachts for charter in the South of France which are available for private rental cruises.