Big birthdays require big celebrations and I had thought (or should I say, “obsess.”) about this one for well over a year! Nothing would make me happier than having our entire family together in one of my very favorite places,…Menton, France, a true gem on the Côte d’Azur. I knew it would be difficult with everyone’s schedules so I started my planning strategy early. My selling points: a totally gorgeous town on the water, fun beach clubs, wonderful accommodations, walkable to Italy, and the closer,…dinner at one of the very finest restaurants in the world just down the street.

We rented a 3 story 1870 Italianate styled villa with 5 bedroom from VRBO. Just think about the history of an 154 old villa and all the stories it could tell! A huge bonus was spectacular air conditioning in every room. Lisa’s family stayed with us while Stacy rented a great place only a 10 minute walk away.

Marla enjoys coffee on the terrace. The town was about a 25 minute downhill walk. Coming back was another story. Thank you Uber!

I reserved Pizzeria 430gradi in Menton for our first night dinner. We loved their daily fresh fish and pasta options! Everyone raved about their meal! We all were a little jet lagged but we made it!!!

Lisa was up early doing her work before anyone was up. I don’t know anyone who can combine work and play with such gusto as Lisa! Mornings were nice and cool. We all were in love with the villa’s tropical gardens.

Stacy, along with Marla and I, took an Uber to Mercato Coperto in the Italian town of Ventimiglia. I heard about the market from a wonderful blogger who lives up the hill in the beautiful medieval village of Gorbio.https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=french%20vibes%20italian%20market%20ventimiglia%20italy&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:e211199b,vid:wNdKOQ6ikOE,st:0

We purchased lots of fun items for a big dinner in our villa. We couldn’t get so Marla said…”Let’s take a train!” Very easy!

Stacy and Stan invited us all over to their rental for dinner. Stan is a good chef but 12 people is a lot! He hit it out of the park! This is Stacy’s family on their terrace. Great view of Menton below.

Their bathroom was really dramatic with colorful marble and onyx!

Marla and I with Lisa and Ray’s family.

We find the the old cemetery fascinating. Many 19th century British and Russian aristocrats are buried here. This is the tomb of the Polish princess, Janina Lewandowska.

After visiting the cemetery we walk down an ancient lane toward the Centre Ville.

Ancient medieval passageways.

We reserved a great table to celebrate Lisa’s birthday at Tony’s Restaurant in town.

Our beautiful birthday girl.

On the way to the beach.

Lisa and Ray gave Marla and I entrance to the Le French beach club for Christmas. Great beach and a very good restaurant!

The Olympics had begun in Paris the week before. We gathered for dinner at our villa and of course had to watch the competition! All of us love sports, especially track & field and swimming!

Marla relaxes on the terrace.

Early morning with my coffee.

It is easy to be transported to a distant and delicious past.

The girls walked over to have a swim in our pool below the villa. The path is like being in a beautiful tropical garden.

So much fun!

Paxton and Logan enjoying their special time together.

Menton will always hold a very special place in our hearts. I can’t wait to return!

NEXT WEEK WE WILL HEAD UP IN THE HILLS TO THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGE OF GORBIO FOR A FABULOUS BIRTHDAY LUNCH FOR PAXTON.