What are the best things to do in October 2023 when living in the French Riviera? Mountain biking on the Massif des Maures, visiting the Book Festival in Mouans-Sartoux, even flying kites in Fréjus, the choice is yours!
There’s no shortage of things to see, things to do and experiences to enjoy on the Côte d’Azur!
Wondering what to do in October if you decided to move to the French Riviera? Here is the agenda for October, with the four must-see events on the Côte d’Azur that FRH has selected for you. Yes, those who live in the French Riviera are never bored here.
The Voiles de Saint-Tropez
From 29 September to 8 October
If you live on the French Riviera you must know the Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It was organised for the first time in 1999 by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez. The Voiles de Saint-Tropez bring together on the same stretch of water classic boats. Some of which are over a hundred years old, maxi yachts and some of the most beautiful ultra-modern boats in the world. And all of this in the purest spirit of fair play: “the best regattas on the water and the best atmosphere on land“.
As a matter of fact, the event began by a happy coincidence. Patrice de Colmont, the creator of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez, tells an amazing story. At the end of September 1981, an American couple with a racing Swan stopped off in Saint-Tropez after competing in the Swan Cup in Porto Cervo. They took part in a few regattas at the SNST and got to know a few people. And one fine day, as the owner was talking about his many exploits, the 12-metre Ikra came into the harbour. Someone asked: “What about Ikra, do you think you could beat her? Immediate response: “Why not, if Ikra accepts the challenge”.
So, Patrice immediately ran to the skipper of Ikra, who agreed to go out for a regatta the next day. That’s how it all started, with a crazy challenge between a Swan 44 and a 12-metre JI.
Around 250 boats take part in the event.
For more info about this October event in Saint-Tropez:
39th Edition of the Roc d’Azur
From 4 to 8 Octrober
An event that an event that sportsmen and women living on the French Riviera never miss.
Since 1984 and the very first edition organised by Stéphane Hauvette with 7 competitors, the Roc d’Azur has gone from strength to strength. It brings together over 20,000 participants, 300 exhibitors and 150,000 visitors over 5 days!
Established in 1997 at the Base Nature François Léotard in Fréjus and on the trails of Roquebrune-sur-Argens, it has become the world’s leading mountain bike event, celebrating all those involved in cycling and mountain biking every October. Starting with the thousands of amateur cyclists from France and 50 different countries…
Everyone at their own pace
Professionals, amateurs, beginners, adults, children, cross-country racers, endurists… whatever your age or level, the Roc d’Azur is open to everyone, from long-time enthusiasts to last-minute curiosity seekers. With a wide range of races on offer, everyone will be able to find the race or ride they want, in cross-country of course, but also in triathlon, electric bike, gravel and even trail… With a wide range of races on offer, everyone will be able to find the race or hike they want, in cross-country of course, but also in triathlon, electric bike, gravel, trail and even walking…
For information and bookings:
The Mouans-Sartoux Book Festival
From 5 to 8 October
Living on the French Riviera is also lying in front of the sea with a good book.
This is the reason why we suggest not to miss this event. Indeed, thousands of books, films, shows, concerts, children’s activities, exhibitions are on the program. The Mouans-Sartoux Book Festival it’s all this and much more: meetings with 300 fantastic guests, debates, readings, lively literary scenes, street performances, slam, graffiti, dance, the Authors’ Bistro, a 3-day cultural broth with your favourite authors!
This year, the event is based around the theme of “Draw me peace”. You’ll find the book you’ve been waiting for, the film your children will love, the best thriller, the comic book or manga. And alos the incredible signed children’s album that will make your little ones’ eyes sparkle…
Moreover, you’ll be strolling through a peaceful and intense atmosphere, full of encounters, friendly café terraces, a pedestrianised boulevard and 300 enthusiastic volunteers!
Additionally, the admission is free!
Festival International de l’Air – Fréjus
21 and 22 October
If you live on the French Riviera near Fréjus, a not-to-be-missed autumn event on the Côte d’Azur is the Festival International de l’Air. It offers a range of events that transcend generations and borders. Indeed, this is major event for kites in the south of France. It takes to the skies every October at the Base Nature François Léotard for editions bursting with energy and creativity.
Welcome to Fréjus, land of daring and thrills!
Open to the skies and the horizon, the Fréjus International Air Festival (F.I.A.) has been doing its own thing for over 20 years, helping the general public to discover a world of fun, sport and poetry that’s full of sensations and emotions.
As a result, under the banner of passion and sharing, the Fréjus festival is above all a captivating festive event on a human scale. Highlighted by the combined talents of kite flyers from all over the world who combine mastery, technical precision and, above all, a touch of madness,
After all, the best journeys are made when people meet. This is the reason why the Tourist Office’s organising team is working hard to build new bridges and widen the field of possibilities. This and much more is living on the French Riviera!
So, you have decided to move to the French Riviera and you wonder what you could do here? Then, now you know there’s plenty to do on the French Riviera in October. And if you want to live the French Riviera life experience,