One of the pleasures of the living on the Cote d'Azur is winter! No tourists, mild (usually) sunny days and above all less traffic! So why not take to the road in January or February and explore some of the stunning seaside towns, cliff top villages and awe inspiring natural scenery the Riviera is famous for. Cannes to Monte-Carlo, it's one of the world's classic drives. Get out the open top sports car (or even the bashed up Citroen), put on your favourite playlist and hit the road.

A dramatic backdrop of crystal clear water stretching as far as the eye can see, vertigo inducing cliff tops and bewitching winding roads, it's a charming way to spend a sunny afternoon.

After a leisurely stroll through the designer-lined boutiques of Cannes, shift into top gear and hit the Croisette, past the trendy boutiques of Juan Les Pins, towards Antibes. Here you'll find one of the longest stretches of open pebbled beach on the coast, set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Next, past the grand villas of Cap d' Antibes, you can drive through right through to Antibes old town, where you'll discover the delightful Marché Provençal filled with French culinary classics. From honey, olives, and lavender to local wines, preserves and stalls stacked with an array of colourful fragrant spices. From there, navigate your way to the legendary Billionaire's Quay and marvel at the mega yachts bobbing in the Marina.

Next it's Nice, Capital of the Riviera. Glide alongside the bustling Promenade des Anglais, with its super cool bladers, for over four miles, before rejoining the sun-drenched Moyenne Corniche. From there it's up to the quaint medieval hilltop village of Eze, offering breathtaking views 1500 feet above the sea, before finally winding your way through to über-rich Monaco where you can while away the hours watching the super-glam crowds go by on the Riviera's millionaire playground.

Then why not head back, along the even higher Grande Corniche, with its amazing Mediterranean views. You'll hit Nice just in time for sunset and dinner in the Old Town. Totally fabulous!

Warning - do not attempt this drive in July or August. It will lead to traffic induced stress problems...!

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