Nice to Nice

Enjoy the scenic beauty and laid-back culture of the Cote d'Azur in idyllic Villefranche-sur-Mer.

A glitzy, glamorous coastal resort that needs no introduction, Saint Tropez is the French Riviera hotspot of choice for A-listers and flotillas of gleaming yachts. The sparkle of its beaches, and clarity of its light, continues to attract artists - but it was the famous presence of Brigitte Bardot that leant Saint Tropez its enduring glamour and steamy appeal. Nowadays, speedboats skim offshore, while fine vintages from the vineyards nearby are uncorked in top-notch restaurants, in this well-heeled highlight of the Cote d'Azur. View less Famous bars offer views of the port along Quai Jean Jaurès, with its iconic cherry-red directors' chairs. Here you can admire the monstrous wealth of yachts that sparkle on the waters. On the same corner, big-name brand labels glimmer in the shops of rue François Sibilli - which cuts inland from the charming waterfront. The earthier appeal of boules clinking and thumping into the ground can be enjoyed at Place des Lices, where sun-wrinkled locals compete. Saint Tropez has a few beaches of its own, but famous stretches like Pampelonne Beach draw the biggest crowds to relax on star-studded golden sands. La Ponche, the authentic fishing quarter, retains its cobbled, historic elegance, and a 17th-century, hexagon-shaped citadel watches over the city and coastline from above. Coastal walks in the sea air snake away from the city’s bustle, and a series of headlands shape the stunning riviera landscape surrounding Saint Tropez. The historic monochrome Cap Camarat lighthouse adds a pleasing accent to hikes above the sparkling Mediterranean’s waves.

Beloved by the French, yet still relatively undiscovered by the rest of the world, the French island of Corsica is a gem. And right at its southern tip lies Bonifacio, a medieval town known as the “the city of sentinels”. Closer to Rome than Paris (and less than an hour’s ferry ride to Sardinia), Bonifacio remains one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets. The first thing you should know is that Bonifacio is stunning. And by that, we mean, awe-inspiringly beautiful. The town itself is worthy of a painting – a long, hilltop town that snakes over milky white limestone cliffs that stretch for 70 kilometres. The turquoise blue seas that lap at the foot of these are both warm and clear, and a joy for bathers of all ages. Although the cliffs have proved perilous to sailors in the past - Bonifacio counts the wreckage of the French Navy’s 1855 ship Semillante among its most visited diving sites and top tourist attractions. It is also here, in the harbour, that scholars place the catastrophic encounter between Ulysses's fleet and the Laestrygonians, who hurled lethal boulders down from the cliffs. The proximity of nearby Sardinia is everywhere. The islands were once joined before volcanic activity tore them apart, and much of the local dialect – still prevalently used particularly in the back country – is heavily influenced by Italian. This is also true for the local cuisine; think large plates of thinly sliced charcuterie and stuffed pasta filled with creamy local brocciu, a cheese similar to ricotta.

Alghero, a picturesque coastal town on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Italy, enchants visitors with its Mediterranean charm and rich history.

A day at sea aboard Silver Shadow is an invitation to slow down, savour the moment and enjoy life at your own pace. The morning might begin with breakfast delivered to your suite by your butler, perhaps enjoyed on your private veranda with sweeping ocean views or savoured from the comfort of your bed as the sun slowly rises over the water. Freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits and a steaming pot of coffee taste all the better when accompanied by uninterrupted ocean views. For guests who prefer a more active start, the Fitness Centre offers state-of-the-art equipment and inspiring sea views, while yoga or Pilates classes provide the perfect balance of movement and mindfulness. As the day unfolds, you may find yourself seeking quieter pleasures. The Observation Library is a serene sanctuary where wide windows frame endless stretches of sea, and books line the shelves, inviting you to lose yourself in a story. Others may prefer a more social morning, joining fellow guests for a friendly game of bridge in the Card Room, or browsing the Boutique for elegant fashions, jewellery and fragrances. Lunchtime brings the chance to indulge in Silver Shadow’s varied dining experiences. Perhaps you choose The Restaurant for refined international cuisine with regional flair, or La Terrazza for pasta made fresh on board and classic Italian dishes bursting with flavour. If you prefer something lighter, The Grill by the pool offers a casual setting where fresh salads and grilled favourites can be enjoyed under the open sky. Afternoons are made for leisure. You might head to the Pool Deck, where attentive staff are always on hand with chilled drinks as you relax on a sun lounger or take a dip in the refreshing pool. For a more indulgent escape, the Zagara Beauty Spa beckons with restorative massages, revitalising facials and treatments designed to refresh both body and mind. The Beauty Salon ensures you feel your best, whether you’re preparing for a glamorous evening ahead or simply treating yourself to a little pampering. As evening approaches, Silver Shadow takes on a new energy. Begin with a cocktail in the Atrium or Panorama Lounge, where soft music and lively conversation set the mood. Dinner might mean French haute cuisine at La Dame, Italian specialities at La Terrazza, or the interactive Hot Rocks experience at The Grill. From here, the night is yours to shape. Settle into the Show Lounge for an incredible performance or try your luck in the Casino. For a slower pace, the Connoisseur’s Corner offers a refined retreat where fine cognacs and premium cigars can be enjoyed in deep leather chairs.

Valencia, nestled along Spain's eastern coast, is a captivating blend of modern innovation and rich history.

Ibiza, a radiant jewel in the Mediterranean Sea, is synonymous with electrifying nightlife, stunning beaches and a bohemian spirit that enchants all who visit.

Mallorca, the largest of Spain's Balearic Islands, is a Mediterranean gem that entices travellers with its diverse beauty.

The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night, when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars.

Palamós, nestled along the scenic Costa Brava in northeastern Spain, is a charming coastal town that beckons with its authentic Mediterranean allure.

Today, Marseille is the country's most important seaport and the largest one in the Mediterranean. The city is divided into 16 arrondissements fanning out from the Old Port. The large industrial port area virtually rubs shoulders with the intimate, picturesque old harbor, the Vieux Port. Packed with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, this is the heart of Marseille. Two fortresses guard the entrance to the harbor: Fort Saint Nicolas and, across the water, Fort Saint Jean.

A day at sea aboard Silver Shadow is an invitation to slow down, savour the moment and enjoy life at your own pace. The morning might begin with breakfast delivered to your suite by your butler, perhaps enjoyed on your private veranda with sweeping ocean views or savoured from the comfort of your bed as the sun slowly rises over the water. Freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits and a steaming pot of coffee taste all the better when accompanied by uninterrupted ocean views. For guests who prefer a more active start, the Fitness Centre offers state-of-the-art equipment and inspiring sea views, while yoga or Pilates classes provide the perfect balance of movement and mindfulness. As the day unfolds, you may find yourself seeking quieter pleasures. The Observation Library is a serene sanctuary where wide windows frame endless stretches of sea, and books line the shelves, inviting you to lose yourself in a story. Others may prefer a more social morning, joining fellow guests for a friendly game of bridge in the Card Room, or browsing the Boutique for elegant fashions, jewellery and fragrances. Lunchtime brings the chance to indulge in Silver Shadow’s varied dining experiences. Perhaps you choose The Restaurant for refined international cuisine with regional flair, or La Terrazza for pasta made fresh on board and classic Italian dishes bursting with flavour. If you prefer something lighter, The Grill by the pool offers a casual setting where fresh salads and grilled favourites can be enjoyed under the open sky. Afternoons are made for leisure. You might head to the Pool Deck, where attentive staff are always on hand with chilled drinks as you relax on a sun lounger or take a dip in the refreshing pool. For a more indulgent escape, the Zagara Beauty Spa beckons with restorative massages, revitalising facials and treatments designed to refresh both body and mind. The Beauty Salon ensures you feel your best, whether you’re preparing for a glamorous evening ahead or simply treating yourself to a little pampering. As evening approaches, Silver Shadow takes on a new energy. Begin with a cocktail in the Atrium or Panorama Lounge, where soft music and lively conversation set the mood. Dinner might mean French haute cuisine at La Dame, Italian specialities at La Terrazza, or the interactive Hot Rocks experience at The Grill. From here, the night is yours to shape. Settle into the Show Lounge for an incredible performance or try your luck in the Casino. For a slower pace, the Connoisseur’s Corner offers a refined retreat where fine cognacs and premium cigars can be enjoyed in deep leather chairs.

Enjoy the scenic beauty and laid-back culture of the Cote d'Azur in idyllic Villefranche-sur-Mer.