Vibrant town among 'France's most beautiful' is only two hours from the UK
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Menton, dubbed the 'pearl of France,' is a picturesque town nestled on the French-Italian border, just under an hour from the bustling tourist hub of Nice. This tranquil gem is the warmest spot along the French Riviera, making it an ideal destination for a late winter escape, boasting temperatures of 10-15C in February.
Visitors in February might get to experience the town's renowned lemon festival, Fete du Citron, which takes place annually towards the end of winter - this year, from February 15 to March 2. As a lemon-growing town, Menton's fame and fortune are largely tied to this vibrant citrus fruit, which is celebrated during the annual festivities. The festival's theme varies each year (though lemons always take centre stage), with this year's theme being 'Journey(s) to the stars'.
Past themes have included Bollywood (2018), the tribulations of a lemon in China (2015), Pinocchio (2002), and myths and legends of the Mediterranean (1990). Whether you're visiting a local lemon farm, wandering through the beautiful old town, or unwinding at the beach, there's plenty to do in Menton, even outside of the town's festive period.
Must-see landmarks include the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh, a botanical garden home to over 1400 species of tropical plants, that will transport you to the tropics rather than the south of France. If you're a history buff, then the Cimetiere du Vieux Chateau is a must-visit. This old cemetery not only offers breathtaking views of the town but also serves as a pilgrimage site for rugby enthusiasts, being the final resting place of the sport's alleged inventor, William Webb Ellis.
