The Cannes Film Festival and Beyond

The Côte d’Azur resort of Cannes has been synonymous with glamour since the 1950s, when Hollywood celebrities such as Cary Grant, Brigitte Bardot, Kirk Douglas and Sophia Loren began to regularly appear at its annual film festival.

A Festival of Stars

More than half a century later, this stunning seaside resort on the French Riviera still exudes decadence, particularly during the 12 days in May when it hosts the world-famous Festival de Cannes (Cannes Film Festival). If money is no object, celebrity spotters can join the festival’s 30,000 or so film producers, directors, celebrities and movie stars as they compete for the limelight to promote their latest film.

Catching a Glimpse of Fame

Find a spot by the Palais des Festivals to catch a glimpse of the celebrities on the red carpet or stroll down La Croisette during the day as the Hollywood glitterati rub shoulders with the tourists among the boutiques and cafés. To increase your chances of getting close to the stars, book a room at their favourite lodging, the Carlton InterContinental or the Martinez, but they are probably fully booked up with movie stars, global celebrities and secret agents!

Off-Season Cannes

For those who prefer to avoid the crowds and the high prices, Cannes out of season is beautiful. It basks in a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters, with high-season temperatures regularly reaching 35°C or more. June and September are warm and peaceful, and many villa owners opt to let their properties in May, July and August to avoid the mania of the peak months and take advantage of higher rental incomes.

Exploring Nearby Gems

The nearby resorts of Saint-Tropez and Antibes are also renowned celebrity haunts. Those seeking a less star-studded location as a base for enjoying this beautiful part of the Côte d’Azur should head for Marseille or Nice, towns which share the climate, charm and culture of their more glitzy neighbours but without the A-list price tag.

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