
Sportel Awards at Grimaldi Forum, Monte Carlo
The Sportel Awards celebrate the best sports images of the year. The ceremony will take place at the Grimaldi Forum, under the Honorary Presidency of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
© Alison Shayler
Outdoor sports mecca with plenty of medieval charm
Sospel is a more of a mountain town than a quaint little village; as well as having its fair share of crooked back streets and ancient buildings, it also has quite a large population of residents and attracts lots of hikers and bikers, so it doesn't rely entirely on coachloads of sightseers to get by.
On leaving the train station it's a short walk cut through a charming little park to get to the Place des Platanes; a large square with benches, shaded promenades, flowerbeds and a boules club. There is a large market here every Thursday morning and you can still see some 15th century columns dotted about – they are all that remains of the old church of Saint Pierre.
Once you arrive at the River Bévéra look left for a wonderful view of the colourful houses with their trompe l'œil façades on the opposite bank and the old bridge with its fortified gate house. Le Pont Vieux was built as a toll bridge for travellers in the 12th century and was damaged in the Second World War, then rebuilt using the original stones.
Sospel has lots of faded charm in its chipped stones and peeling paintwork; the dark alleyways and hidden courtyards are cool even in the height of summer and far less frenetic than some of the more touristy villages.
The Sportel Awards celebrate the best sports images of the year. The ceremony will take place at the Grimaldi Forum, under the Honorary Presidency of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
The Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival is ready to host the biggest jazz artists at the Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo.
In this luxury world, the 'Top Marques' event showcases not only some of the newest and most amazing cars but also the additional toys and gadgets that make them unique.
If you're a fan of military history then it may be worth making a short journey to the outskirts of Sospel to visit the three forts – Saint-Roch, Barbonnet and Agaisen – all of which are open to the public (although check opening times before you visit as they can be limited).
The famous Maginot Line runs past Sospel, just 3km from the town.
To get a sense of the full history of Sospel (and to have a peek at the locals' gardens), follow the signposts up to the “Ruines du Donjon Romaine et Remparts”, where you'll find the ruins of the Château de Sospel, home to the Counts of Provence. Not much more remains than a few crumbling walls but it's evocative nonetheless and gives you an insight into a different aspect of the town.
The magnificent Catédral de Saint Michel dominates the centre of “old” Sospel; its vivid colours glowing against the dark wood and sombre grey stonework of the neighbouring streets.
The cathedral soars higher than all the surrounding buildings and the square in front has been recobbled with white and grey stones that contrast beautifully with the warm yellow and red tones of the façade.
The 13th century Romanesque bell tower is the only original part of the building, the rest having been rebuilt in the Baroque style during the 17th century.
The bastion was built in the 17th century by Honoré II, Prince of Monaco, as a fort to defend the entrance to Menton. It now exhibits artwork by Jean Cocteau.
Prince Rainier III was a huge car enthusiast and amassed a vast collection of vintage cars.
Built in the year 6 BC, the trophy of Augustus honoured Octavius, Caesar's nephew and future emperor under the name of Augustus, who had conquered the Alpine tribes.
Learn about the French defences from the Germans and the strategic position of this fort in the battle for Nice in World War two.
The cathedral of Monaco is dedicated to the Virgin, although popularly known as Saint Nicholas because of the church that previously stood on its site. The current building was built in the 19th century.
These zoological gardens were established in 1954 and house a collection of over 250 species of animals, from hippos to black panthers and lemurs.
Set to the back drop of Menton's colourful and pretty old town, these beaches stretch eastwards from the Port towards the Italian border.
Made up of a selection of private and public areas, with the most popular stretch being Plage de Fossan to the east.
Plage Buse is a pretty and undulating stretch of pebbly coastline tucked away to the west of the Roquebrune Cap Martin peninsula.
This family-friendly beach is easy to get to but not so easy to find, which is perhaps why it always stays fairly quiet even in peak season.
Larvotto is the principality of Monaco's most popular sandy beach and the main one with free public access. Covered in smooth imported fine gravel this man-made beach is made up of both private and public areas of beach.
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap d’Ail beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
The old bridge leads to Place Saint Nicolas, a small but very charming square with an 18th century fountain, colourful buildings and Italian-style loggias. Here you'll find a typically French café with a pretty terrace and daily specials.
Alternatively, there is a small cluster of café-bars and brasseries beside the river at Place de Cabraïa, which is local dialect for “goat” and refers to the days when farmers would gather their herds here before leading them to the pastures. The fountain is split in two levels, the lower one for animals and the upper one for people.
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
Situated in the luxury Hotel de Paris, this restaurant serves modern Mediterranean cuisine qith great panoramic views of the sea.
This gourmet restaurant offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean and gained two Michelin stars in 2011.
Chef Bruno Cirino prepares Mediterranean dishes that carefully showcase the flavours of local produce. A light and creative cuisine that you can enjoy in their elegant dining room with vaulted ceilings and frescoes or their shaded terrace overlooking the sea.
Whether you’re sitting on the terrace with a panoramic view or opposite the open kitchen, the Blue Bay offers an unforgettable culinary experience and is located in the Monte Carlo Bay Hotel.
Located in Hotel Metropole, this restaurant is lead by Executive Chef Christophe Cussac. It holds two Michelin stars.
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
In the heart of the spectacular Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, this ultra-modern casino offers a choice of around 150 new generation slot machines which all work without tokens.
Sit back in this lounge and take in the magnificent views across the Mediterranean, Port Hercule and the Rock of Monaco, while luxuriating in the atmosphere of exclusivity.
The Hôtel de Paris' fantastic cocktail bar and lounge oozes old world class. It has a cosy, elegant low-key ambiance, with big leather armchairs, sea views and live music from Doctor Gabs' piano.
The relaxed atmosphere and sublime vista make it the perfect spot to enjoy, 24 hours a day, according to your rhythm and fancy...
Sospel is a nature junkie's paradise with no less than five GR trails heading out from the town as well as various other hiking and mountain biking routes – you'll often see people checking tyres and brakes in Place des Platanes prior to a day out riding the cross-country trails.
It's also a popular destination for road bikers, with plenty of cols and long challenging itineraries within reach. Rock climbers can find limestone crags with bolted routes up to grade seven – check at the tourist office for information on where to find them.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
This company is based in Menton and offers a range of road bikes.
Based in Menton, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
When Lance Armstrong describes a training route as “mythical” you know it’s not going to be easy…
La Grande Corniche is one of the classic cycle routes of the Riviera and this ride takes you from the heart of Nice all the way to Menton on the Italian border and back.
Situated just half an hour from Monaco the Pointe Siricocca offers amazing panoramic views of the coastline and far inland to the north.
A moderate hike to the summit of Cime de Baudon 1264m where you are welcomed with magnificent views of the crashing blue waves of the Mediterranean to the south and the snow capped mountains to the north.
Perched high up on the rocks above Menton this lovely village offers great views and classic mediterranean architecture.
Mont Gros stands at 686m and towers above Menton and Monaco. It is a popular venue for paragliding.
A scenic walk along the coast leading to a small chapel dating back to the late 1800's.
The historical town of Roccabruna fell under control of the Grimaldi family of Monaco for five centuries during which time the castle was strengthened. It still stands today and is a must see on this short walk.
A rowing club that supports athletes and amateurs in Monaco to reach their goals, whether they are leisure based or competitive.
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
This historical club was created in 1951, a time when diving was made more popular thanks to Captain Cousteau and his famous red cap.
This facility offers an excellent opportunity for all those wishing to train and/or specialise in aquatic and underwater areas.
Many of the world’s most prestigious private yachts fly the Yacht Club de Monaco’s burgee, testimony to its unique position on the international yachting scene.
Indulge in some energising or relaxing water activities for young and old alike to enjoy at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.
Surrounded by cypress and myrrh trees, this typically Mediterranean holiday home, Villa Serra, overlooks the citadel of Calvi in Haute-Corse.
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
Surrounded by cypress and myrrh trees, this typically Mediterranean holiday home, Villa Serra, overlooks the citadel of Calvi in Haute-Corse.
This most luxurious building makes up the Southern tip of the Principality. It sits directly on the waterfront, with over 180 degrees of sea view.
At the heart of the ''Golden Square", set within one of the most prestigious building in the Principality with indoor pool, fitness, sauna and 24h security service, this 2 bedroom apartment enjoys pleasant views of the gardens and the city.
Apartment in a residence with swimming pool, located in the Jardin Exotique area, benefiting from sea view.
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
This apartment is close to the Casino Place, set in a prestigious building with pool, spa, fitness , 24h concierge and a room service.
Elegant and exclusive hotel in the centre of Monaco, ideally located right in front of the casino.
Distinguished turn-of-the-century resort hotel with a sophisticated aura, surrounded by a beautifully landscaped 14-acre park.
Boasting remarkable sea views of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this luxurious hotel is listed among the 500 World's Best Hotels.
With urban elegance, chic interiors and just steps away from the casino, boutique shopping and the legendary F1 Grand Prix circuit, this hotel is a gem in the heart of Monaco.
Situated on its own two-hectare peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea, the hotel has wonderful panoramic views. With only 28 rooms spread over four separate locations, it is a very private and luxurious place to stay.
The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury resort. The hotel is one of the largest in Europe with its 602 guest rooms, residences and suites, two restaurants, a bar and a new pool space on the roof which integrates a contemporary touch.
Getting to Sospel is relatively easy on public transport; you can either take the Train des Merveilles from Nice or there is a bus that runs from Menton.
If you're driving you can take the A8 and the D2204 from Nice (40km), or the A8 then D2566 from Menton (15km).
From Nice airport to Monaco, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
Sole agent : Belle Epoque elegance with a sea view.
Villa Marizzina, a jewel of the Belle-Époque period, stands proudly overlooking the Mediterranean in Cap d'Ail, a popular location for its proximity to Nice, Monaco and Italy.
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