Tour De Force

Dubbed the world's first super tourer, Aston Martin's new DB12 proves a feat of strength on the historic Route Napoléon in the South of France.

- JAMIE NONIS

A stunning location fit for the world's first super tourer; that is, indelibly, how our journey in Aston Martin's new DB12 began, at the gorgeous The Maybourne Riviera dramatically perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Today, we're bringing you along the south of France, soaking in breathtaking views of sky and sea along the picturesque coastline with Monaco to the west and Italy to the east.

Here, the DB12 strikes a splendiferous picture of athleticism and elegance, juxtaposed against the striking modernist architecture of the chic new hotel to grace the Côte d'Azur.

It is Aston Martin's 110th anniversary this year, and the British marque is clearly revelling in both the spirit of the Riviera and the 75th anniversary celebrations of its illustrious DB range. The DB12 marks the dawn of a new era under the stewardship of Canadian billionaire owner Lawrence Stroll; its first model was developed during this new chapter in the brand's story.

We set off for the infamous Route Napoléon, driving south along the French Riviera en route to Cannes. Our first stop is coffee in the medieval town of Mougins, known for its rich cultural and culinary heritage and frequented by notable figures in history like Pablo Picasso, Christian Dior, and Yves Saint Laurent.