Winter in St Jean Cap Ferrat - A Guide to Enjoying the Off-Season

Located on the French Riviera, St Jean Cap Ferrat is a picturesque seaside town known for its stunning Mediterranean views and luxurious properties. While the summer months tend to be the busiest, with tourists flocking to the region for its sunny beaches and warm weather, the sunny days of winter in St Jean Cap Ferrat can be just as enjoyable, if not more. Here are some of the activities Cap Ferrat has to offer while visiting during the off-season.

1. Visit the town: Take a stroll along the port of St-Jean with its chic cafés and boutiques, enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while facing the harbor, and explore the town's elegant streets. Visit the historic and beautiful landmark, the Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa and Gardens. This stunning villa was built in the early 20th century by the Rothschild family and now open to the public. The magnificent gardens, featuring a variety of exotic plants from around the world, are particularly stunning during the winter months, and more enjoyable as there are fewer tourists.

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2. Rent a boat: Despite the cooler weather, daytime temperatures in the French Riviera during winter allow for little to no sleeves and even sunbathing. The Riviera sunshine makes the sea a beautiful sight to behold in the winter. Consider booking a boat tour from Nice or renting a boat to see the coastline from a different perspective and discover small hidden coves. 

3. Go Trekking: If you enjoy outdoor sports, go for a run or take a walk along the Sentier du Littoral. This scenic walkway stretches along the coast of the peninsula and leads up to the lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. 

4. Water Sports: Although the water is much colder than usual in the winter, the temperature of the sea in the Riviera is actually warmer than the outdoor temperature. Because of the ideal daytime temperatures and beautiful ocean scenery it’s not uncommon to see swimmers, stand-up paddles, kayaks, yachts, and jetskis in the beaches of Cap Ferrat. Even those most sensitive to the cold take to the water in the winter whether on a boat or with a rashguard.

5. Have a Picnic: there are a number of spaces that offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and provide the perfect setting for a leisurely outdoor meal, particularly near Plage des Fossettes. Pack a lunch or stop by a local boulangerie to pick up some sandwiches, pastries, and drinks. A picnic in Cap Ferrat is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

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Overall, winter in St Jean Cap Ferrat can be a magical time to visit. While the crowds may be smaller and the weather may be cooler, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy and sights to see. From sipping on a glass of wine along the harbor to water sports and boat tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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