How did the Cote d'Azur or French Riviera develop into such a chic resort area for the rich and famous? This extract explores the history and development of the Cote d'Azur ... A century ago, the French Riviera had become the most stylish winter holiday spot for European royalty and aristocrats, particularly the British, who journeyed to Menton, Nice and Cannes for the gentle climate. These high society visitors soon created their own well-mannered enclave. They sipped tea in the exotic gardens of Belle Epoque villas, surrounded by blossoming almond and mimosa trees. They introduced cricket, croquet, lawn tennis and golf to the Côte d'Azur, and organized charming thés dansants where only English was spoken. Come April, they packed up and went home, before the hot weather arrived. Then along came the Americans, and the Côte d'Azur would never be the same. As early as the 1880s, the warm temperatures and crystalline turquoise sea began to attract wealthy entrepreneurs and artists who crossed the Atlantic hoping to create their own private Eden. Many were as eccentric as they were visionary, and left their indelible mark on the Riviera landscape and lifestyle. Complete Article: Inventing the RivieraMore historic coverage about French Riviera on video:
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