6 Reasons Why the French Riviera at Wintertime is the Next Addition to Your Bucket List
Vacation.
We all need it at some point or another. Time away from our day-to-day routine to enjoy and discover the world around us. In the wake of the pandemic, there seems to be more reason to get out and travel than ever before (while taking necessary precautions and after ensuring your own health, of course). While many people tend to do their international traveling during the spring and summer months, there are so many incredible perks to traveling year-round. The French Riviera may not necessarily be known for its wintertime activities, but it really is one of the most magical places to be in the “off months”. Here are some of the most important reasons why you should consider visiting us in our “down time” this winter - and every winter!
1. Winter is off-time for tourists.
Confirmed by Travel + Leisure, the summer months are the most popular to travel to the French Riviera area. June and September are listed as some of the best times to visit, while July and August are peak times for travellers. That means that it can get pretty crowded here in the summer months. Plus, Cannes Film Festival leaves the area crawling with additional tourists and filmmakers throughout July. Naomi Campbell, Leonardo DiCaprio, Elton John, and Kate Moss are all known to vacation here during the warm season.
In fact, Americans have a certain nostalgia for being here in the summertime, mostly due to pop culture icons like Brigitte Bardot enjoying the countryside and Grace Kelly becoming the princess of Monaco. Not to mention, F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote Tenders of the Night here, which was also based loosely on his adventures in the French Riviera, while Picasso and Matisse were specifically inspired by their evenings there. Yes it can be fun to experience the vibrancy of the travellers - can you say, stellar people-watching? - a more quiet and dormant season might be your cup of tea.
2. La Pitchoune is magic at the holidays.
Many people travel during winter holidays, but it’s a way more popular time to go back to places known and visit with old friends and family. Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, New Year, and other “cold weather” holidays in the northern hemisphere are proudly celebrated in small towns and the homes people grew up in, surrounded by the familiar. In fact, for a country that claims to be secularistic, France tends to celebrate all types of Christian holidays that you might not expect.
But we would make the case that La Pitchoune is one of the most magical places to be during the holiday season. Christmas markets are a big thing in France, and there are several nearby options that will have you singing and dancing the night away. November and December also mark truffle season in the region. Specific truffle markets exist in the immediate vicinity throughout December which are not nearly as crowded as other ventures nearby.
3. Provence is a great escape from stereotypical winter weather.
Nights on the patio, a glass of wine walking in the garden, and beautiful adventures into the village are options almost year-round. This makes things especially more manageable for those of us who suffer from seasonal allergies or inflammation and arthritis. While the weather deems it far from beach season, the mild weather in the region rarely hits freezing. And the property’s outdoor pool is a helpful and fun perk. (Technically open year round, it also isn’t heated. So winter months might not be the best for swimming, but the ambiance is still available!)
If you’re around at the right time of day, you may experience a certain group of Niçois that swim in the Med year round.
4. La Pitchoune has more availability in the winter.
Because less travellers are at our doorstep in the winter months, that also means La Pitchoune is more available during this stretch of time, especially compared to the months of June through September. This means that the wintertime is the best time for people to actually stay and relax. It’s the only time of year that the house can be rented at the lower rate with less amenities like prepared meals. If you prefer to do your own thing, and for far less money, then this time of year is for you!
5. Ski resorts are within driving distance.
For those of you who want to experience the tranquility of the French countryside in winter, there is no need to abandon all of your favorite winter activities! There are several ski resorts within driving distance, one located just under an hour from the property. Isola is a quick hour and a half away, while Auron and some of Italy’s famous slopes are just around two hours away.
6. The owners of La Pitchoune are probably hanging out.
If everything else listed isn’t enough, then human connection could be what you’re looking for. Chris and Makenna Nylund - the adorable and indelible owners of La Pitchoune - try to be gone during July and August due to the crowds. But you will often find them hanging out in late fall/early winter (well into December). THAT’s how amazing it is. So, if you want a chance to witness their beautiful family in full form - and perhaps learn a bit more about the history of the region - you should have more of a chance to engage during this time.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your time in France, know that there are always incredible new opportunities to experience and adventures to have, no matter the season. And perhaps you’ll consider bringing your close friends or relatives out for a relaxing holiday, soon!
