About Cap d'Ail

Of all the villages lying within the French Riviera Cap d’Ail probably has the least history behind it, the village itself only coming in to existence in 1908, originally forming part of the commune la Turbie. From a population of approximately 1,500 residents in 1911, today the village and surrounding area has a population of over 5,000, but this has changed little over the last thirty years as development opportunities are severely restricted. Although the immediate reaction to the village’s name might lead to a translation of the French word for garlic – ail – this is only one of many suggestions for how the area was given its name, other ideas coming from the abbreviations of such names in both French and Italian as Cavod’Ayle, Cap d’Abeglio and Cap Dalphin.

Despite the small population, there is still plenty on offer for both residents and tourists in Cap d’Ail. To the north of the village and on the boundary with Monaco here is both the marina and sheltered beach, together with all associated water sports. Tennis is forever popular on the French Riviera owing to the fine weather and even a small village like Cap d’Ail has a tennis club with five courts. It is not just the coastline which is rugged in places, - the mountains behind not only create a stunning backdrop to this part of the Riviera, but they also provide a challenge for the enthusiastic rock climber, Cap d’Ail also having a rock climbing club which is very welcoming to guests. Of course it is impossible to ignore the fact that Monaco and Monte Carlo are literally on the doorstep, the facilities there being covered in our section of that part of the French Riviera.

The Chateau des Terrasses is the venue in Cap d’Ail for the majority of fairs and exhibitions.  Villa Roc Fleury is, at 120 years old, one of the original properties in the area and is open to visitors – the property giving a superb demonstration of the beauty of Italian architecture. August is the month for Jazz music lovers with Cap d’Ail holding an annual Jazz festival which takes place at the Amphi de la Mer or at the Chateau des Terrasses. September is the month for sports enthusiasts with Cap d’Ail holding an annual triathlon since 2001, while February is the month of the annual ‘Course du Soleil’ athletic run over the 21km between Nice and Monaco. One of the most important dates of the year comes in the first week in September when Cap d’Ail celebrates liberation day.

With Cap d’Ail literally being located on the Mediterranean, it is impossible not to be seduced by the seafood on offer in many of Cap d’Ail’s local restaurants. As with many other towns in the Riviera, the influence is predominantly Provençale, though with Monaco on the doorstep, there is cuisine from other countries too, including Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese. However, bearing in mind itsproximity to Italy, much of the local food has a strong Italian theme, especially at restaurants such as La Merenda and Cap Marquet, while traditional French food can be found at Le Lamparo down by the beach and Le Delice.