Gardens of the French Riviera and the International Rose Festival 781
Gardens of the French Riviera and the International Rose Festival 781
Gardens of the French Riviera and the International Rose Festival 781
6 Days Starting and ending in London, UK
Visiting: Nice, Cap d'Antibes, Grasse
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BFRR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
6 - 25
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the Gardens of the French Riviera and the International Rose Festival. This enchanting tour begins in London, whisking you away to the lush landscapes of Nice. Discover the exotic beauty of Serre de la Madone and the Villa Thuret's rare plant collection. Wander the artistic streets of St Paul de Vence and marvel at the Jardin Exotique d’Èze's breathtaking views. Exclusive access to the private Clos du Peyronnet and the historic Hanbury Gardens awaits, showcasing a rich tapestry of flora. Delight in the opulence of the Fondation Ephrussi de Rothschild and the vibrant International Rose Festival in Grasse. Conclude your adventure amidst the glamour of Monte Carlo's parks and gardens. With comfortable accommodations, professional guidance, and unforgettable experiences, this tour is a botanical dream come true.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Nice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
We fly from London to Nice, where on arrival we will enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant before travelling to the historic garden of Serre de la Madone, created by American Lawrence Johnston, who travelled the world over a 30-year period seeking plants to acclimatise here among the ancient olives. Johnston was also responsible for the quintessentially English garden at Hidcote Manor and the contrast with Serre de la Madone could not be greater. This is a place of luxuriant and exotic beauty, a tropical forest planted on the shores of the Mediterranean. Please note entry to the garden involves an uphill walk with a number of steps.
Following our visit, we continue to our comfortable accommodation in Nice. A welcome dinner in a local restaurant is included this evening.
Day 2
Location: Cap d'Antibes
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast today we depart for the Cap d’Antibes and a visit to the Villa Thuret. A botanist and expert on seaweeds, Gustav Thuret lived here and over a period of twenty years he amassed a collection of rare plants – among them the first eucalyptus to be planted on the Côte d’Azur. The interest of the place lies in the great collection of tender woody plants, some 3000 species, which are grown here. In four acres of exotic jungle the visitor may wander at will studying plants rarely seen in any other European collection.
We continue with a visit to the village of St Paul de Vence, which has been a haven to writers and artists over the years, including Marc Chagall who is buried in the village cemetery. Within the narrow cobbled streets there are countless art galleries and studios and the viewpoint at the south end of the village offers a memorable panorama. Here there will be an opportunity for lunch (not included).
This afternoon we will continue to Jardin Exotique d’Èze. At the top of the perched village of the same name, among the ruins of an ancient castle overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the “Exotic garden of Èze” is a garden to be experienced. In the midst of several hundred species of exotic plants (cacti, aloes, agaves) the visit is an invitation to discover not only plants, but also themes and art. The different paths are punctuated with spaces where you can relax, cool down or simply immerse yourself in the light and spectacular landscapes, all set against the backdrop of one of the finest views of the French Riviera.
We return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.
Day 3
Location: Nice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast today we visit the private garden of Clos du Peyronnet, Our access to this private garden is a Brightwater exclusive, and a real highlight of our tour. The garden has an enviable position on the slopes above the bay of Garavan, close to the Italian border. To one side of the house is a splendid water garden, where a long canal-like pool runs at right angles to the slope. Exotic flowers and foliage press in from all sides, giving the impression of a jungle only just kept at bay. On the eastern side of the garden is the specialist collection of rare bulbs, William Waterfield’s passion, with over 200 species.
We continue to the gardens of La Mortola (also known as the Hanbury Gardens) just across the border in Italy. Now over a hundred years old, the garden was named after the thickets of wild myrtle on the rocky shore and was planted by Sir Thomas Hanbury, after 1867. It was planned as a botanic collection of outstanding interest and tender exotics from South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South America were planted and flourished. La Mortola is perhaps the greatest of Riviera Gardens – great in its accumulated years, the richness of its collections, the power of its presence on all who behold it, and not least in the impact it has had all over the French Riviera. Lunch is included here.
This evening we will enjoy dinner in a nearby local restaurant.
Day 4
Location: Nice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, following breakfast, we will visit the Fondation Ephrussi de Rothschild at St Jean Cap Ferrat, a garden designed as a series of compartments, each reflecting a different architectural style. The villa, now a museum, contains the collections of the Baroness de Rothschild and some of the artefacts associated with Marie-Antoinette including paintings by Monet and Renoir. The gardens are exquisite, with many interesting tender plants thriving in the favourable climate, surrounded by marvellous views over the sea. Lunch is included here.
In the afternoon we are free to explore our host town of Nice.
Evening at leisure.
Day 5
Location: Grasse
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today following breakfast we depart for a visit to the International Rose Festival in Grasse, a truly magical event filled with colour and fragrance. There are a variety of fringe attractions, including perfume displays, but roses – of every colour, variety and style imaginable – are the key feature, with a competitive aspect that is taken very seriously.
This afternoon we will continue to La Mouissone in Grasse. The property is almost unique in this area in being distributed across the slopes of a hillside below le Bois de la Marbrière, with panoramic views of the coast. Spread over three hectares with 250 productive olive trees, the gardens reflect the attributes and restrictions presented by the terrain and the Mediterranean climate. There are tailored lawns and beds around the houses, and wilder grassland and woodland areas on the outskirts. You can also explore the shady bamboo garden, the prairie style garden and woodland walk. Lunch is included today.
Dinner is included in a local restaurant this evening.
Day 6
Location: Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
We conclude in the glamourous surroundings of Monte Carlo, playground of the rich and famous. Here we will enjoy a walk through some of the charming public parks and gardens that bring splashes of colour and open space to the tightly packed urban landscape.
Later, we transfer to Nice airport for our return flight to London.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included throughout the tour.
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Comfortable coaching throughout
Comfortable transportation is provided throughout the tour.
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All visits as outlined in the itinerary
All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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Services of a professional tour manager
A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.
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Meals
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, including some lunches and dinners.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour price.
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Lunch on Day 2
Lunch on Day 2 is not included and will be at your own expense.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with professional coaching throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless journey between the beautiful gardens and attractions of the French Riviera.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable accommodation in Nice, providing a relaxing base for your exploration of the French Riviera's stunning gardens and landscapes.
Check out our Q&As
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What is unique about the garden of Serre de la Madone?
The garden of Serre de la Madone is unique because it was created by American Lawrence Johnston, who traveled the world over a 30-year period seeking plants to acclimatize among ancient olives. It is a place of luxuriant and exotic beauty, resembling a tropical forest planted on the shores of the Mediterranean.
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What can visitors expect to see at the Villa Thuret?
Visitors to the Villa Thuret can expect to see a great collection of tender woody plants, with some 3000 species grown there. The garden is known for its exotic jungle-like atmosphere where visitors can wander and study plants rarely seen in other European collections.
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What makes the Clos du Peyronnet garden a highlight of the tour?
The Clos du Peyronnet garden is a highlight of the tour because it is a private garden with exclusive access for the tour group. It features a splendid water garden and a specialist collection of rare bulbs, offering an impression of a jungle only just kept at bay.
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What is special about the Hanbury Gardens?
The Hanbury Gardens, also known as La Mortola, are special because they are over a hundred years old and were planted as a botanic collection of outstanding interest. The garden features tender exotics from South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, making it one of the greatest Riviera Gardens.
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What can be experienced at the International Rose Festival in Grasse?
At the International Rose Festival in Grasse, visitors can experience a magical event filled with color and fragrance, with roses of every color, variety, and style imaginable. The festival also includes a competitive aspect and various fringe attractions, such as perfume displays.
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What is the significance of the Fondation Ephrussi de Rothschild gardens?
The Fondation Ephrussi de Rothschild gardens are significant because they are designed as a series of compartments, each reflecting a different architectural style. The villa, now a museum, contains collections of the Baroness de Rothschild and artefacts associated with Marie-Antoinette, surrounded by exquisite gardens and marvellous sea views.
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Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?
You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.
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What facilities do your coaches have?
Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.
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Do I have to go on the included excursions?
Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.
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Is there time to relax?
Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.
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Do I need to be an expert?
Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.
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How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?
You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding
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Do you have self-drive holidays?
Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!
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What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?
There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.
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Where are your departure points?
UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .
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What about the company that will be kept?
For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.
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What is a Brightwater Holiday?
Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.
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Why is there a single supplement?
Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.
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How much are your optional excursions?
Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.
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Can I pre-book my coach seats?
Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.
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How to get there? Easy!
With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.
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Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.
At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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