Menton is the "The Lemon Festival Capital of the World", located very close to the border of France and Italy and in many ways is more Italian than French. It has its own microclimate, generally milder than the rest of the French Riviera, and became in the late Nineteenth Century a place where Northern Europeans with TB came to either regain their health or to die. As a result its cemetery is filled with the graves of notable Englishmen, Germans, Russians. The old town is largely pedestrianised which adds to the charm of this sedate resort.
PLACE TO VISIT
Jean Cocteau Museum - In a bastion near the port, this small museum displays drawings, ceramics, tapestries and a large mosaic by the artist.
Salle des Marriages - In the town hall, the civic wedding hall is decorated completely in murals by Jean Cocteau.
The charming old town is compact and largely pedestrianised.
Several impressive gardens dotted through the town including those at Garavan (Olive trees in Parc du Pian, Jardin Exotique, Villa Fontana Rosa).
Casino and the magnificent hotels - Royal Westminster and Ambassadeurs.
Cimetière du Vieux Chateau - Russian Orthodox chapel, grave of William Webb Ellis - founder of Rugby football, view over town.
Fête du Citron - There's a lemon party and you're invited! Lemon-related festivities over several days in February.
Festival de Musique de Menton - is a music festival running through the last day of July to the middle of August. The music is primary classical, with artist and symphony orchestras from all over the world.
HOW TO REACH
A8 Exit Menton. Follow signs for Centre Ville.
Bas Corniche from Monaco or Italy (Ventimiglia)
Train from Monaco/Nice or Ventimiglia
Menton has a curious one way system, it is probably a good idea to park near the port and not attempt to drive anywhere else. Although the climb up to the cemeteries is steep on foot it is considerably better than attempting to drive it.
