How to Vacation Like Christian and Anastasia in ‘Fifty Shades Freed’
Allison Takeda
Allison Takeda
Fifty Shades Freed takes some dark turns toward the end of the movie, but at the beginning, Christian and Anastasia are quite literally in the honeymoon period. After their wedding, they jet off on a romantic trip to the French Riviera, where they take in the sights and soak up the sun and just generally live a life of luxury.
We can't all be (or marry) billionaires, obviously, but if you find yourself in the South of France and want to follow in Mr. and Mrs. Grey's footsteps, this is what you need to know. And if you want to just live vicariously, Fifty Shades Freed is available now on digital, Blu-ray, DVD, and on demand.
(Photos via Universal Pictures)
Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat: Christian and Ana stayed on a yacht somewhere off the coast, but if you prefer to sleep on dry land — and don't mind spending some serious cash — you can't beat the Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat. It's owned by the Four Seasons, so you know it's luxe, and it's centrally located near both Nice and Monaco, if you're not the lounge-by-the-pool-for-five-days-straight type. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
If you are that type, the Grand Hotel has a gorgeous infinity pool attached to Club Dauphin, which serves coffee, cocktails, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. There are also private infinity pools attached to some of the suites in the Residence building. And if you're not a strong swimmer, the hotel offers lessons with the world-famous Pierre Gruneberg, who has taught the children of guests including Charlie Chaplin, Paul McCartney, and Ralph Lauren. (Photo via Manuel Zublena)
Paloma Beach: Just down the road from the Grand Hotel du Cap-Ferrat is Paloma Beach, a small, private stretch of paradise along the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. It's tucked away between billion-dollar villas on the coast, but you don't have to live in one of them to enjoy this little refuge. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
You might remember Paloma Beach from the scene where Christian emerges shirtless from the turquoise waters. There are no huge waves here, so it's the perfect setting for a relaxing swim or a little paddle-boarding. Further out, you can also try jet-skiing, waterskiing, and even parasailing. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
If you prefer to stay on shore, the beach offers canopied beds and cushioned lounge chairs where you can relax with a good book and a refreshing cocktail from the bar. There are also private changing rooms — although, if this scene from Fifty Shades is any indication, you don't need to be shy. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
When you get hungry, grab a bite to eat at the attached restaurant, which serves up fresh-caught seafood and local delicacies. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: A little further along the coast — about a 35-minute drive from the Grand Hotel — you'll find the municipality of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, where Christian and Ana spent an afternoon wandering through the village of Roquebrune. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
If you don't mind a little bit of a walk, take some time to explore the village, which is full of charming outdoor cafes, historic architecture, and hidden treasures — like a thousand-year-old olive tree. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
Chateau de Roquebrune: Walk to the top of the hill and you'll find the Chateau de Roquebrune, a medieval-style castle that overlooks the entire village. Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson filmed a scene in this very spot, so feel free to reenact their lovey-dovey pose as you gaze out at the sea. (Photo via Universal Pictures)
From the Chateau de Roquebrune, you'll have a perfect view of the red-tiled rooftops in Roquebrune village, and a panorama of the rest of the coast, from Cap-Martin to Monaco.
Nikki Beach: If you're looking for a little nightlife, hit up Nikki Beach, a luxury poolside club on the roof of the Fairmont Monte Carlo in Monaco. It's just steps away from the famed Monte Carlo Casino — but don't expect a noisy, Vegas-like crowd there. The gamblers at this casino are the highest of high rollers.