So, we were in town for the rugby and stumbled upon some amazing cultural and culinary gems in Nice. The Rugby World Cup action was great, but what made it even better was the opportunity to explore other activities without much effort. Nice has a laid-back energy, and we were able to uncover some highlights of the local culture and food scene.
In our previous adventures, we talked about our unique view of Nice as we wandered towards the villages atop the ‘Baou’. We also mentioned the delightful wine we discovered at Domaine de La Source. But there was more to come.
One of our memorable experiences was at the classy L’Auberge du Rédier. We were blown away by the three-course lunch they served. The goats cheese starter, the house specialty ravioli, and the lemon tart were not only delicious but also great value for money. This hidden gem is located in Colomars, just a short 20-minute drive away.
But if you think that’s close, wait until you hear about the brilliant stop-offs even closer to the heart of Nice. As we wandered through the side streets off the Boulevard des Anglais, we were overwhelmed by the variety of options. Eventually, we found ourselves at L’Escalinada, a charming restaurant where we enjoyed a selection of fisherman’s favorites and some iconic nibbles. And don’t forget to add a cube of ice to your wine for that extra touch.
Of course, the Boulevard des Anglais itself offers plenty of attractions. If you’re into water sports, you might want to try out Riviera Nautic Sport. We had a blast paddleboarding, even though we fell into the water three times! And after all that activity, it would be rude not to enjoy a refreshing aperitif at Bocca Mar, right on the waterfront.
For those who prefer a more active way to explore Nice, we recommend the Lou Camin Nissart. It’s a long-distance hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful hills surrounding the city. And since we were in town for the rugby, it was the perfect way to stay active.
Speaking of sports, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Musée National du Sport. Located right in front of the Allianz Riviera stadium, this museum houses an astounding collection of sporting memorabilia from various disciplines. It’s a must-visit for sports lovers, and if you had a ticket for the Rugby World Cup matches, you even got free entry!
And then there’s the old town, a true testament to the rich history and cultural clashes that have shaped Nice. We particularly enjoyed exploring the Italian section. Following the rugby crowd, we ended up at Ma Nolan’s, where we were treated to excellent hospitality.
If you want to discover more about what the region has to offer, be sure to check out explorenicecotedazur.com. And if you’re a rugby fan, don’t forget to download the digital edition of Rugby World or subscribe to the print edition for a dose of rugby news delivered right to your door.