The Alpes Maritimes’ Golden Triangle
The Alpes Maritimes’ Golden Triangle extends along the coast between Villefranche-sur-mer, Beaulieu-sur-mer and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. It is ideally located along the Côte d’Azur, less than 30 minutes’ drive from Nice, the capital of the French Riviera to the west, and a similar distance from the capital of Monaco to the east. This superb, natural coastal strip has a highly active property market and is very popular with international buyers. This exclusive, accessible area also features several marinas so can be easily reached by sea. Close-up look at an idyllic lifestyle, between nature, culture and festive luxury.
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: the world’s most highly sought-after headland
With an average price per square metre of around €18,000, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat remains a luxury investment, highly sought-after by wealthy foreign clients, with prices frequently reaching record highs. In 2015, a villa exchanged hands at a price of €216,000 per square metre, making the town the most expensive in the world. Since then, Cap-Ferrat has seen a growing demand for properties with increasing prices (+11.9% in 5 years)* at a time when owners are more cautious about selling. The result is a tight market which struggles to meet consumer demand. Although Cap-Ferrat is still a dream location, some buyers prefer to opt for a more affordable sea view in Villefranche or Beaulieu rather than settle for a second-row property in Saint-Jean. True Cap-Ferrat aficionados, as in the days of Cocteau, Matisse or more recently Elton John, head for Paloma Beach, an historic establishment which has welcomed great artists for more than a decade. Located on the idyllic Paloma Beach, in a lush, private setting, it offers a stunning, easterly view.
Villefranche-sur-mer: the joy of a naturally sheltered harbour bay
Villefranche-sur-mer owes its reputation to its splendid 4 km² natural harbour bay which accommodates and provides moorings for boats. This inlet between Cap-Ferrat and Cap de Nice, which provides shelter from the wind and from extreme weather conditions, offers one of the most beautiful views of the coast. The property market in this area is cheaper than in Cap-Ferrat but has been steadily increasing in price for the last few years. Villefranche’s proximity to Nice makes it an excellent investment for a quasi-permanent residence, particularly as Nice airport is just 20 minutes away.
Beaulieu: unique architectural and Belle Epoque heritage
Beaulieu: unique architectural and Belle Epoque heritage
Beaulieu-sur-Mer, east of Cap-Ferrat, boasts wonderfully elegant, Belle-Epoque-style architecture. It was a well-known seaside resort during the 19th century and was popular with Gustave Eiffel and Tolstoy, amongst others! Since the 90s, the area has also been targeted by property speculators, leading to a sharp increase in prices. Today, although more affordable than Cap-Ferrat, it is highly sought after for its cultural life, luxurious charm, historic buildings, two marinas and exceptional moorings. Today, thanks to its exceptional location, facing the Mediterranean, its proximity to Cap-Ferrat, and its vibrant and upmarket atmosphere, which you can enjoy all year round, this historic holiday resort is very popular with wealthy families.