Our approach
We specialize in uncovering the hidden side of travel, from intimate local experiences to remarkable places far beyond the usual tourist trail.
France Azur Experience invites you to discover the region beyond the postcard views. We carefully curate journeys to the most beautiful, authentic and lesser-known locations, blending iconic landmarks with hidden gems far from the crowds.
Whether you are drawn to history, culture, nature, outdoor activities or gastronomy, each experience is thoughtfully designed around your interests and travel style. Guided by passionate local experts, our tours emphasize immersion, meaningful encounters and a deep connection to local life - always delivered with comfort, safety and attention to detail.
Our fundamentals
Six things that never change, whatever the itinerary.
Fluidity
The day bends to you
Order, pace and stops shift with your mood, the light and the weather. Nothing is locked in at 9 a.m.
Serenity
Nothing to organise
Pick-up, driving, tolls, parking, tables, tickets, equipment. You get in the van and the day happens.
Human commitment
Your guide is in the group
Fouad does not wait in the car park. He walks, eats and talks with you - that is the whole point.
Tailor-made
Built around your interests
History, art, food, hiking, the sea, photography, or all of it. Tell us and we design from there.
Authenticity
Rooted in local life
Producers, artisans, farmers and instructors we have worked with for years - not a scripted stop.
Comfort
High-end vehicles
Air-conditioned Mercedes van for one to seven guests. Child seats, water and local snacks on board.
Fouad Zarrou
Your founder
Fouad Zarrou
Formerly an international lawyer and UNESCO consultant in Paris, Fouad Zarrou later ran his own export company before moving to the Côte d'Azur. His lifelong passion for the sea - particularly free diving - led him to explore the Riviera in depth. Drawn equally to the depths of the ocean and the peaks of the mountains, he left the corporate world to create a tour company where he could share his knowledge, enthusiasm and love for the region.
Born in Morocco, Fouad speaks English, French, Spanish, Berber and Arabic, and has lived in South Africa, Spain and Paris for twelve years. A graduate of the Sorbonne, he has deep knowledge of French culture and history, which he passionately shares on every tour.
When he is not guiding tours, Fouad enjoys cycling, skiing, climbing, hiking, free diving and paddle boarding. Familiar with all the secret trails and hidden gems along the coast and in the mountains, he delights in taking guests off the tourist path and arranging outdoor adventures for both sports enthusiasts and families. An accomplished cook, he can also organize cooking classes, food and wine experiences.
You are visiting our region: tell us about your interests and your wishes for the day, and we will craft itineraries you will never forget. We are passionate experts in our region, and we continue to evolve thanks to the inspiration and feedback of our guests.
Who we design for
Which travellers feel at home with us
- Discerning travellers who have already seen Nice, Cannes and Monaco and want what is behind them
- Couples and families looking for a private day rather than a coach and a headset
- Art, history, food and wine enthusiasts who want access rather than a queue
- Active travellers: cyclists, hikers, freedivers, climbers - all levels
- Cruise passengers with one day ashore and no time to waste
- Small private groups and business travellers
Comfort & logistics
Travel in complete peace of mind
With your private chauffeur-guide service and high-end vehicles - a Mercedes van perfectly suited for couples, families, small groups or business travel - your experience will be smooth, stress-free and enjoyable.
We are recommended by
Our partners
Tours by Locals
Tournesol Travel
Abercrombie & Kent
ACE Camps Travel
Our other hobbies
Freediving, film & the sea
Fouad's other life: competitive freediving since 2002 with the Nice club where the sport was born, and behind-the-scenes work on freediving films - including Julie Gautier's "Ama" and "Narcisse," and Guillaume Néry's "Free Fall."