Camping Le Fréjus

A whole heap of attractions and activities for all inclinations is in the area surrounding Camping le Frejus, from the glam of Cannes, Saint-Tropez et al to the vineyards of the Côtes de Provence, and the ancient buildings and medieval bishop's palace of art and heritage town Fréjus. The nearest Côte d'Azur sands are the private and public beaches of Plage Frejus six kilometres away – get there early in summer if you're going to one of the public beaches, which are popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers as well as sunbathers and swimmers. Lessons in both are available along with simpler pursuits like paddleboat hire for the kids. Although the better known towns of the French Riviera get a bit crammed in summer or during famed events like the Cannes Festival, they're well worth a look at quieter times or at places off the main tourist trail. Saint-Tropez is probably best known for its nightlife (that'll be why they named the tan after it), but go in daytime to see the pastel colours and landscape that have inspired painters from Matisse to David Hockney. At Cannes, look with envy at the luxury yachts of the marina or potter for a quieter time around the Îles de Lérins/Lérins Islands and the wildlife of Île Sainte Marguerite. At Monaco, marine historians will find the Oceanographic Museum a must, and at Nice, between the sea and the mountains, make time for the Saturday flower market or the very Nice views of the town from Castle Hill – another must.