Gravette beach
Gravette Beach (La Gravette) – the most beautiful among Antibes' public beaches. Pristine white sands stretch out behind the ramparts of the Old Port, nestled almost in the heart of the city. The luminescent waters of the bay, shielded by a jetty, ensure that it is perpetually calm and bathed in sunshine.
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Beach description
La Gravette Beach is a highly attractive destination for locals who previously strolled by for shopping, as well as for mothers with their children. The gently sloping sands and the year-round clarity of the water make it a picturesque spot. Although La Gravette may be second in length to La Salis, it does not detract from its popularity. The beach is open to the public and can become quite crowded on hot summer days; therefore, the ideal time to visit is early in the morning.
It is important for mothers with children to note that it is common for local women to sunbathe topless at La Gravette Beach.
This favorite spot for relaxation, which from the promenade resembles a suburban pool, is equipped with all the necessary beach infrastructure:
- Freshwater showers and toilets are conveniently built into the wall of the cliffs.
- Kiosks offering drinks and ice cream are available, though visitors should bring their own umbrellas and towels.
- Paid parking lots are located near Avenue de Verdun.
- Beach inspectors are on duty during the summer months.
- Pets are not officially permitted, especially when the beach is crowded. However, dogs may be seen frolicking during the off-season.
- The beach closes at 8:00 p.m. nightly, and during the winter or on rainy days, it may be closed for extended periods.
- There are numerous dining options for weary vacationers in the old part of Antibes, close to the beach.
Antibes boasts an extensive stretch of beach areas, with the combined length of the beaches and suburban areas reaching approximately 25 km. Visitors are not limited to just diving or cruising; surfing, snowboarding, kayaking, as well as yoga and Pilates on the beach promenades, are all available. There are virtually no restrictions on activities, including diving, jet skiing, parasailing, and hydroplane rides. Numerous rental offices provide all the necessary equipment for these activities. Water Sports Cap D'Antibes is a company that offers services for nearly every water sport imaginable.
Best Time to Visit
The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur, is a prime destination for beach enthusiasts. To make the most of your beach vacation, timing is essential. The best period to visit largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowd sizes, and local events.
- Mid-May to Mid-September: This is the peak season when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities. However, it's also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Late September to October: For those who prefer a quieter experience with mild weather, this is an ideal time. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and the summer crowds have dissipated.
- Spring: Late March to May offers pleasant weather, though the sea might still be too cool for swimming. It's a great time to enjoy the coastal scenery and outdoor cafes without the peak season's hustle.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the French Riviera for a beach vacation is late June to August if you're seeking vibrant beach life and don't mind the crowd. For a more relaxed trip with comfortable temperatures, consider late September to October.
Video: Beach Gravette
Infrastructure
Antibes is renowned as a vibrant resort, brimming with bars, entertainment venues, and cozy restaurants that cater to a youthful crowd. After soaking up the sun on La Gravette beach, consider renting a bicycle for a city tour to discover the perfect spot to spend your evening - be it a lively disco, an alluring casino, or a charming restaurant.
Accommodation options near the beach range from luxurious hotels steeped in history to those boasting stylish designs or romantic atmospheres. Just a stone's throw from La Gravette, you'll find the quaint La Place Hotel Antibes, a 3-star establishment ideal for families. The hotel is surrounded by an array of shops and restaurants. Despite its small size, it offers a cozy ambiance and convenient amenities such as an underground parking lot. The multilingual staff is friendly and attentive, providing services like breakfast, laundry, and dry cleaning. With non-smoking rooms available, the hotel's style is sure to delight both families and couples seeking a romantic getaway.
The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Spanish, Italian, and Moorish influences, with seafood as the cornerstone. Beyond traditional French fish soups, diners can indulge in unique, exquisite dishes. Specialties include foie gras, fried shrimp, pigeon breasts, and squid paired with white beans. Favorites such as risotto, ratatouille, and roast lamb are also on the menu. The wine list is sure to impress connoisseurs, offering rare vintages and delectable desserts.
Strolling down Boulevard Massena, in the old part of the city, visitors will encounter a vibrant market. En route to the beach, tourists can purchase miniature souvenir bottles filled with the famed local absinthe or olive oil. The market also features an array of cheese, herbes de Provence, sausages, and a bounty of vegetables and fruits.
Weather in Gravette
Best hotels of Gravette
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There are no direct bus services to Antibes from Nice or Cannes airport. You need to get to the railway station, then change to the train or bus that goes to Antibes. More convenient option is a ride on rented car. You can walk to La Gravette from the avenue de Verdun foot, looking for a passage in stone fence.
Beach season is open from May, but the best holiday awaits in September, when the heat subsides and sea is still warm in summer. Can be quite hot in summer, so do not forget about the right beach equipment: head-dress, glasses. It is desirable to have a pair of towels with you, price on the beach for towels reaches 10 euros. Bottom is stony in some places, stones are not sharp, it is impossible to get hurt, but for convenience, special shoes will not hurt.
Too bright dresses and decorations are not accepted on beach, allowed only in special cases. It is advisable to always have documents with you and if you have any questions, contact the police, who are often found here.
What to visit:
- Port Vauban and picturesque harbor;
- architectural and religious monuments Cathedrale Notre Dame de la Platea and Notre-Dame de Bon Port;
- built in XVI century Fort Carré;
- Museu Picasso;
- Napoleon Museum;
- Park of flowers;
- Provencal farm;
- Mariland aquarium.