MEDD

The work of Le Corbusier had such a profound impact on modern architecture that 17 of his designs across seven countries have been collectively deemed UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover one of the masterpieces of his creative genius in Marseilles at the famous La Cité Radieuse, a vertical concrete village built in 1952 that revolutionized residential design. Elevated on large pillars, the multistory complex includes uniquely conceived apartments as well as a hotel, restaurant, grocery and bookshop connected by interior streets.

Picture Grace Kelly giving a white-knuckled Cary Grant the ride of his life on the roads above Nice in the 1955 classic To Catch a Thief. On this unforgettable excursion, you will have much the same experience – but without the white knuckles. Your personal chauffeur will pick you up in a splendidly restored vintage vehicle for your half-day sojourn in the French Riviera. You may select a recommended itinerary heading east or west from Cannes, or you may agree on a customized route with your driver.

A yoga class with the guidance of a talented instructor is revitalizing on its own. When that class takes place on the shores of Saint-Honorat Island with spectacular views of the bay, the experience is truly exhilarating. Begin this rejuvenating excursion by hopping aboard a Zodiac boat for a scenic cruise off the coast of Cannes to the natural oasis of Île Saint-Honorat. This sunny paradise is a private island belonging to the monks of Lérins Abbey, who cultivate vineyards here.

This picturesque walking tour through the heart of Cannes takes you from the charm of Le Suquet to the glamour of La Croisette and lets you savor the sensory delights of a Provençal market. Strolling narrow lanes of the Old Quarter, you will delight in the window boxes, colorful shutters and fantastic façades underneath the red roofs. Stop for photos at a viewpoint offering panoramas of Cannes and the nearby Lérins Islands and Estérel Mountains.

Enjoy a panoramic drive from Cannes to Nice, passing the palm-lined Promenade des Anglais stretching along the bay. Upon arriving in Nice, see legendary landmarks such as the palatial hotel Le Negresco and the colorful, onion-domed Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Stroll the pretty lanes of the Old Town, where you can browse the shops, eateries and flower market of the Cours Saleya promenade. After free time for lunch on your own, head up the hill to medieval Saint-Paul-de-Vence, known for its museums and galleries.

Travel up the coast from Cannes to meet Chef Marina, your host for the day. At a local market in Nice, she will share tips on selecting fresh meats, fish, produce, bread and other ingredients. You will enjoy a short coffee break before traveling to her elegant home. Chef Marina's warm way of welcoming guests into her kitchen is matched only by her ability to transform fresh ingredients into culinary fantasy. With Chef Marina's guidance, you will prepare and cook a delicious meal.

Drive from Cannes through lush forests of pine, olive and Cypress trees to the village of Mougins, a haven for the rich and famous that has been inhabited since pre-Roman times. Soon you will arrive at Cannes-Mougins, one of the most famous golf courses in France. Considered by Seve Ballesteros to be one of the best courses in Europe, this jewel of the French Riviera is known for its quality fairways and fast greens. One great hole follows another in an uncomplicated out-and-back design, and the 18th plays directly along the wonderful clubhouse.

On this excursion through the medieval port town of Calvi in the Balagne region of northwest Corsica, you will walk along narrow lanes and ancient ramparts as you follow your guide to the entrance of the towering citadel overlooking the port. At this 15th-century military outpost, stop to take in the vista of red roofs and luxury yachts below. Continue to the town square of Place d'Armes and then to Calvi Cathedral at the promontory's highest point.

Enjoy some of the best of Corsica with this journey through captivating villages perched high above the sea in the Balagne region. As you travel a scenic road from one burg to the next, you will witness the island’s history in medieval towns that have changed little over the centuries. Begin in Calenzana at the tree-lined Piazza Communa, dominated by the Église Saint-Blaise. Continue to the fountains, arcaded houses and ancient streets of Zilia and on to towns like Lunghignano that are beloved by filmmakers for their picturesque squares and granite houses.

This wonderful exploration makes you an active participant in the striking beauty of Corsica. Experience the jagged landscapes, waving grasses and crystalline waters of the island as you get your heart pumping on an electric bike. You'll embark primarily on tarred roads for approximately 2.5 miles before you reach a more rugged path stretching over the scenic, diverse and hilly terrain around Calvi.