On the iconic, legendary and stunning French Riviera, in the commune of Antibes, and just an hour’s drive from the Italian border, lies the alluring seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins.
One of the most picturesque towns in the South of France, Juan-les-Pins is also one of the most family friendly towns in the region – perfect for those looking for a relaxing break, and also for those looking to relocate permanently or perhaps purchase a holiday home in the region.
So – what’s there to see and do in and around Juan-les-Pins?
Sights to See and Things to Do in Juan-les-Pins
One of the main attractions of Juan-les-Pins is, of course, the glorious sandy beaches. There are two main areas where excellent beaches (even a private beach or two) can be found. The first is the Cap d’Antibes peninsula, and the second is the Juan-les-Pins coastline itself that stretches right along the Golfe-Juan between Antibes and Cannes.
Juan-les-Pins takes its name from the pine groves that line the shoreline, adding to its beauty and sheltering the town and beaches.
For a little glitz and glamour, many luxury hotels can be found along the coastline – including the glamourous Hotel Belle Rives, which many revere as the finest hotel in Juan-les-Pins. And of course, the legendary Cannes film festival attracts the who’s who of cinema every year – so don’t be surprised to see a few celebrities out dining, sunbathing, and soaking up the sights.
You might even spot one or two wandering around the Parc de la Pinede. Beautifully furnished with plants, trees, and flower gardens, Pinede Park is also perfect for children. There’s a playground with the usual climbing frames, swings, and slides – and also an old-fashioned carousel, which really adds to the charm of the place. The Park is also where the Jazz Festival is staged in July each year – so if you like a little modern, continental jazz while you’re out for a summer stroll in the French Riviera, you’ll be in the right place.
If you do take a trip to Cannes, then a seaside stroll along the Promenade des Anglais (English Walkway) is absolutely unmissable. Built by the English in the 1800s, it offers breath-taking views of the French Riviera’s azure waters, and today is popular with bicyclists, skateboarders, and families.
You may also want to take a short (about 50 minutes) train journey from Juan-les-Pins to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – famous for its wild beauty, stunning villas, art deco architecture, and sleek yachts (it’s also another celebrity hot spot).
Another fantastic day trip is a ferry ride to Saint-Tropez. Once a humble fishing village, Saint-Tropez is now famed for its designer boutiques and luxury yachts. It still retains its old-world charm, however, and the Maison des Papillons (Butterfly Museum) and Musée d’Histoire Maritime (Museum of Maritime History) are not to be missed.
Charles Mackintosh – Property Surveyor on the French Riviera
That concludes our whistle-stop tour of Juan-les-Pins and surrounding towns and neighbourhoods. If you’re considering a permanent move to this glorious part of the world, South of France property surveyor Charles Mackintosh is at your service. With over 30 years’ experience living and working in the French Riviera, Charles provides highly regarded English language property surveys and advice to British buyers. Get in touch today for more information.