The Côte d’Azur is always a promise of sunshine, glamour, and discoveries along the Mediterranean. In early August, we were lucky enough to spend a magical weekend — a mix of a dear friends’ wedding, hidden beaches, and the vibrant energy of Nice. Three intense days filled with love, friendship, and little anecdotes that will stay with us forever.

From Lausanne to Nice, with style

Our adventure started in Lausanne, with a train ride to Geneva Airport. We travel frequently, and our EasyJet Plus membership makes life so much easier: arriving just 30 to 40 minutes before departure, boarding with two cabin bags, and always sitting at the front of the plane. A comfort that makes all the difference.

As soon as we took off, the view of the Alps under a clear sky was breathtaking. One of us (Sébastien) spent the flight taking pictures, while the other (Matthieu) quickly fell asleep in front of the series we had just started.

First mishap, first laugh

In Nice, our rental Renault was waiting. But barely three minutes after leaving the airport parking lot, a warning light came on. Back we went. Luckily, everything was solved quickly and kindly. A minor mishap turned into a funny story, before we hit the road again.

Instead of driving straight to our hotel in Saint-Raphaël, we decided to take the scenic route along the coast, passing through Nice and Cannes. The sun was shining, the beaches inviting, and we couldn’t resist stopping. That’s how we discovered the calanque du Cap Roux, a naturist beach with a very French atmosphere. A few minutes after we arrived, almost the entire beach suddenly started shouting at a couple wearing swimsuits. The French naturists chanted “À poil! Voyeuristes!” (which means “Get naked! Voyeur!”) for several minutes. The atmosphere grew tense, and eventually the couple decided to leave, still fully dressed, under the crowd’s shouts. It wasn’t exactly the warmest welcome, but it was so surreal that we ended up laughing about it.

Sunset in Saint-Raphaël

By evening, we reached our hotel in Saint-Raphaël, just in time for a breathtaking sunset over the sea. Dinner at the port followed, making the perfect end to our first day.

Fréjus, a morning of relaxation

The next morning, the beaches of Fréjus welcomed us with calm waves and space to breathe before the wedding festivities. After a few hours of swimming, we made an unusual stop at Intermarché to grab poké bowls. We ate them in the car, air conditioning blasting, parked along a busy road, watching cars go by. Luckily, this doesn’t happen to us too often, but at that moment it was both funny and convenient.

A wedding to remember in Villecroze

In the afternoon, it was time for the celebration. The wedding took place in Villecroze, in a rustic and charming location where guests stayed in tipis. Under the blazing August sun, they felt like saunas, but after refreshing showers, we were ready.

The evening was magical: heartfelt vows, delicious food, endless dancing, and so much laughter. A true mix of love and joy that lasted until dawn.

Nice, between chic and dolce vita

The next day, after brunch with the newlyweds, we drove back to Nice. Settled in the lively city center, we strolled the Promenade des Anglais, explored the buzzing old town, and enjoyed Mediterranean flavors.

In the evening, we headed to Coco Bar, one of Sébastien’s favorite spots. He loves this place because every time we go, people tease him for being a “bobo parisien,” which always makes him laugh. The vibe is amazing, the people are super friendly, and it was truly the best way to end the day.

The hidden gem of Èze

On our last day, Èze charmed us with its medieval streets and breathtaking views. But the real highlight was a hidden naturist beach, reached after a 40-minute walk. The reward was crystal-clear water, a queer-friendly vibe, and spontaneous chats with fellow LGBTQ+ travelers.

Farewell to the Côte d’Azur

By late afternoon, it was time to return the car in Nice and catch our evening flight. Tired but glowing with happiness, we left the Côte d’Azur knowing this weekend would stay in our memories as one of the most beautiful of the summer.