The least expensive area is the Alpes de Haut Provence, in hilltop villages like Valbonne, Mougins and St Paul de Vence.

BBC: Living in: Provence

In Mougins, a few miles inland from Cannes, I opened the door to a stunning hotel room that overlooked a valley and the grey-green maquis of Provence.

BBC: Travelling solo in the world��s most romantic country

The events were held at the Moulin de Mougins, a hillside restaurant north of town, and the presence of Ms. Taylor elevated the event, especially for wealthy older men of my generation, who bid absurd sums for baubles, perhaps to impress her.

WSJ: Roger Ebert on Elizabeth Taylor