There can be no doubt that the Cote D’Azure
Has always held a certain allure
Nice, on a cloudless, sun-drenched day
A stroll down the Promenade des Anglais
The millionaires’ yachts on the azure sea
There is no finer place to be
Except perhaps, along the coast
At Cannes, where topless bathers roast
And pavement café life overflows
With those who simply love to pose
Especially in May, when movie stars
Fill the town’s hotels and bars
And locals are captured in the thrall
Of the annual film festival
Climb north, and in a little while
You’ll find a town of grace and style
That offers just a bit more room
And the heady scent of fine perfume
You’ve come across the town of Grasse
Well worth a stop before you pass
The perfumiers will tell you for sure
Their eau de toilette beats that of Dior
The local lavender serves as well
As any bottled by Chanel
With bottles full and wallets light
From Grasse, you’ll finally take flight

Oh the Riviera has its charm
And a visit does more good than harm
But if you crave a real retreat
A haven from the City’s beat
An altogether different pace
With solitude and loads of space
There is a spot that you could choose
A tranquil place with wondrous views
Where birdsong, is all you’ll hear
And air is fresh and light is clear
Once you enter its protected gates
A charming villa for you waits
Amidst the plant and tree-lined grounds
Peace and tranquillity abounds
The house is full of cosy nooks
For sipping wine or reading books
The terraces are a sheer delight
Sun-drenched by day and warm at night
What better way to keep your cool
Than splashing in the swimming pool?
And when the time for dinner’s due
Fire up the barbecue
And feast on food that’s fresh and fine
Washed down with some local wine
Then savour, in the warm night air
The magic of La Reynardiere.

© Joanne Ross - May 2007