The world-renowned Côte d’Azur is an ode to beauty and dolce vita. It is exceptionally located, between mountains and sea, and features many high-end properties. The Côte d’Azur became the preferred holiday destination for European aristocratic families and artists who chose to live in these luxury villas. Here is a quick roundup of some of these exceptional properties.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on the Cap Ferrat Peninsula
The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild also known as the “Villa Île-de-France” was built by Baronness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. When the baroness first discovered the Côte d’Azur, she was immediately captivated by its unspoilt beauty. And she decided to buy a 7- hectare plot of land on the Cap Ferrat peninsula, on which she built a vast residence inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture. Every room, was lavishly decorated and housed numerous works of art. The villa was surrounded by a complex of nine gardens, with a view of Villefranche-sur-mer harbour. Today, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a listed historic monument and museum open to visitors.
Villa E-1027, in Roquebrune-Cap Martin
The unique Villa E-1027 stands in stark contrast to the Belle Epoque and Art Deco inspired properties that you often find on the Côte d’Azur. This celebration of modernity was created by designer Eileen Gray and her architect partner Jean Badovici. The interior is decorated with murals by Le Corbusier. But there is something else that sets Villa E-1027 apart. It is located on the sea front and can only be accessed from the coastal path, also called the “Sentier des douaniers,” (the Custom Officers’ path).
Villa Domergue, in Cannes
Villa Domergue is a wonderful Art Deco gem, inspired by Venetian palaces. It was conceived and designed by painter Jean-Gabriel Domergue. His wife, who was a sculptor, was responsible for designing the Mediterranean-style gardens, adorned with ponds, water features and numerous works of art. Villa Domergue, which is open to the public, hosts several events every year, and is used by the jury during the Cannes Festival to host meetings and discussions.
Villa Santo Sospir, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Villa Santo Sospir, a magnificent Mediterranean-style property with a splendid sea view, has one particularly distinctive feature. Its walls are covered with drawings by Jean Cocteau who was a friend of Francine Weisweiller, the owner. These murals pay tribute to Greek mythology and the Côte d’Azur. Although the owners have changed, you can still visit Villa Santo Sospir which is now a listed, historic monument.
Villa Californie, in Cannes
Although closed to the public, Villa Californie is one of the jewels of the Côte d’Azur.
The property was also known as “Villa Fénelon” and, later, the “Pavillon de Flore” and was the home of Pablo Picasso for many years. It is located on the hills of Cannes and features a magnificent, extremely ornate, white façade, the work of sculptor Henri Vidal.
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Engel & Völkers
French Riviera
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13, rue des Etats-Unis06400 CannesFrance
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Phone +33 4 93 68 64 72
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