The hidden gems of the French Riviera

The French Riviera is a beautiful place to visit but can get expensive especially if you stay in the bigger cities such as Nice, Cannes or the Principality of Monaco.

It expands from the Italian border to Saint Tropez, in the Var region, but some debate it goes as far as Cassis in the Bouches-du-Rhône.

Méline Deiness, 21, who lived in a rural part of the Riviera growing up but now has relocated to the biggest city, Nice, said: “The Var is an amazing place to visit because of its incredible landscapes.

"But also culturally, there’s a lot of history in the small villages like Fayence and Mons.”

“The landscapes we have cannot be found anywhere else,” added Anthony Gaubert, a 20-year-old student studying in Nice but who lived in Roquebrune-sur-Argens. “I really enjoy going on hikes such as the one called Le Blavet. It’s such a beautiful historical landmark.”

The Var has many hiking trails, and beautiful seaside views and beaches.

Méline said: “The Base Nature in Fréjus is cool when you want to go for a walk. There is also a beach next to it.

“With my friends we have a tradition of having a picnic day and going to the beach during the summer. It’s cool knowing that even if we don’t go to school together anymore, we have this tradition.

“Around the corner there is also a theme park called Luna Park. It can be pricey but it’s a fun way to end the day.”

Saint-Cassien lake is one of the biggest lakes in France. It is located in a small village called Tanneron. The road that crosses this lake takes you to the Canton de Fayence and it groups eight villages, Fayence, Mons, Seillans, Tourettes, Callian, Montauroux, Saint Paul en Forêt and Tanneron.

“The lake is massive,” said Anthony. “There are so many spots to go swimming or fishing. There are restaurants around the lake and you can hire paddle boats to explore the lake.”

When asked about tourism in this area, Méline said: “It can get crowded during the summer as we have warmer weather but it’s still a great place to visit.”

Anthony added: “Yeah, a lot of tourists come but I’m not surprised, we have amazing views.

“If being 30 minutes inland isn’t for you and you want to be at the beach or by the Mediterranean, there are two beautiful islands called Iles de Lérins. It's a fun day trip to do.”

These islands, Saint Marguerite and Saint Honorat, are located near Cannes.

The cost of living is always something tourists take into consideration when travelling, especially British people who want to know the price of a pint of beer.

“The price of a pint is cheaper in the smaller towns. In Nice, a pint goes for around £6.70 whereas in a bar in Callian called La Base concept store, a pint goes for £4.19.” says Méline.

A pint in a Wetherspoon in Leicester can go for £3.93.

“If you are still wondering if you should book your plane ticket, do it. You will not regret it,” said Anthony.