Promenade des Anglais
Promenade des Anglais is probably the most famous tourist attraction in the city of Nice. It runs for several kilometres along the Mediterranean seashore, from the Coline du Chateau up to the airport. The
Promenade was initially called the
Camin dei Anglès (the English Way) but after the annexation of Nice by
France in the late 19th Century, it was renamed
Promenade des Anglais. The place is the pride of the city and a favourite spot for tourists, rollerbladers, cyclists and dog owners who love to take a walk along the street. Strolling along the waterfront boulevard, you can contemplate the azure waters of the Bay of Angels (
la Baie des Anges) and pass by the vendors selling snacks and drinks. Besides the romantic palms, there are Belle Époque hotels, many nice villas, good
restaurants and
boutiques.
This site was built in 1820 by the English community to provide a nice place for the visitors to relax and enjoy the marvellous panorama along the coast. The coast looked differently before – the beach was deserted and covered with large stones. Afterwards, houses were set on higher ground away from the sea. The current appearance of the boulevard was comes form 1822, when Englishman Lewis Way sponsored the two-metre wide path. There are characteristic blue chairs set along the street, which are perfect to sit, rest and relax after wandering around.
Another characteristic feature of the promenade is the Hotel Negresco, with a wonderful view of the Baie des Anges. It got its name after Henri Negresco (1868-1920), who was the first owner of the hotel. In 1927, just outside the Negresco Hotel American dancer
Isadora Duncan died in a tragic car accident.
The avenue is a symbol of style and prestige with all its famous restaurants, cafes, casinos and hotels. Blue chairs and white pergolas date from the beginning of 20th Century and make the pedestrians stop, sit and watch the world go by. In high season you can hardly make your way through the crowds that stroll along the street. You can meet Parisians, Italian couples, retired, although young at heart, Nicois, bikers, joggers, families and many others walking down the
Promenade des Anglais. There are numerous events that take place on the promenade, such as the Battle of Flowers, the annual Carnival and others, that guarantee an exciting time in Nice.
Name: Promenade des Anglais
Address: Promenade des Anglais
see map
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