A stay in the Principality can recharge your batteries in a fraction of
a second. The benefits of the sea are self-evident. You can also enjoy
numerous water sports, including scuba diving, snorkelling, jet skiing,
kitesurfing, windsurfing and many others.
You will fall in love with Larvotto beach, on Avenue Princesse Grace.
This recently redesigned seaside complex is perfect for all ages, with its
shaded promenade and completely refurbished beaches. Residents and visitors
alike can relax by the water’s edge, and bathe under the azure blue skies of
the Riviera. Simply kick back and watch the world go by, and perhaps dip your
toes into the refreshing Mediterranean on one of the four private beaches to
choose from, at La Rose des Vents, Le Neptune, La Note Bleue, or Le Miami. You
might like to grab an ice cream from Mullot ice cream parlour and savour it in
the shade of the pine trees.
For over ten years, this beach has had a “Handiplage” area, created with
the help of the association Soroptimist. The site welcomes people with
disabilities and reduced mobility, enabling them to make the most of the sand
and sea. Young attendants known as “handiplagistes” are on hand to
welcome and assist those with reduced mobility as they bathe.
There
are two other swimming locations in Monaco. The first is located below the
Rocher, a small, private, rarely visited beach known as the “Crique des Pêcheurs”. Extremely narrow and covered
with gravel, it is frequented by a few connoisseurs seeking a little peace and
quiet. It’s also somewhere people come to enjoy the waves which crash against
the shingle. Please be aware that in very rough seas, access is prohibited and
highly dangerous.
The second is unique. It is a sea wall with its own
beach at Port Hercule. Solarium Beach is an artificial bathing area located at the foot of
Fort Antoine. This is an unpatrolled beach and for safety reasons, swimming is
prohibited when the sea is rough. Please note that the water is deep in this
area, and swimmers cannot use the seabed for support. The area should be used
by good swimmers only.
Near
Monaco, to the west, there are several beautiful beaches in Cap d’Ail, such
as Mala Beach. Heading towards Italy, you will find the beaches of
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, which offer a wild coastline.
Photo credits:
©Benjamin Vergély