Riviera, << `rihv` ee AIR uh, >> is a narrow strip of land on the Mediterranean Sea. The region runs from Hyeres in southern France to La Spezia in northwestern Italy. The Alps rise back of the Riviera. Each year, travelers from many parts of the world bask in the warm sunshine of the Riviera for both health and pleasure. Balmy southern breezes drift in from the sea throughout the year, and the Alps shut off the cold north and east winds.
A chain of French and Italian towns lies on the Riviera. They are connected by an excellent road that follows an ancient Roman highway. A railroad also links the towns together. The towns are colorful with brightly painted houses and green, fragrant gardens. The people of the Riviera cultivate bananas, dates, flowers, pomegranates, and prickly pears.
The towns that are located along the Riviera include Antibes, Cannes, Hyeres, Menton, Nice, and St. Tropez in France; Monte Carlo in Monaco; and Albenga, Genoa, La Spezia, Rapallo, San Remo, Savona, and Ventimiglia in Italy.
