Art de Vivre: the most beautiful homes on the French Riviera
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Belle Époque Extravagance: The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
Perched on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, this residence is the wild dream of Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. Built in the early 20th century, the villa is a celebration of colour and eclecticism. Its Italian Renaissance-style architecture contrasts with its pastel pink façades, which have become iconic on the Riviera.
But the real treasure lies outside: its nine themed gardens (French, Japanese, Spanish...) offer a unique sensory stroll, designed like the deck of an ocean liner overlooking the sea. A dazzling testament to the French art of hospitality.
An Invitation to Travel: Villa Kérylos
Just a stone’s throw away, Beaulieu-sur-Mer is home to an absolute curiosity: a faithful reconstruction of an ancient Greek residence. Born of the collaboration between archaeologist Théodore Reinach and architect Emmanuel Pontremoli, Villa Kérylos is not a pastiche, but a total work of art.
Everything here, from the precious wood furniture to the wall frescoes and Carrara marble, celebrates Hellenic refinement. Perched right by the water’s edge, it embodies an erudite and timeless luxury, where Mediterranean light takes centre stage.
Organic Utopia: The Palais Bulles
Perched on the heights of Théoule-sur-Mer, Pierre Cardin’s Palais Bulles (designed by architect Antti Lovag) defies all conventions. Here, right angles do not exist. This habitable sculpture, with its spherical, ochre forms, blends into the red rock of the Estérel like a mineral skin.
With its giant portholes opening onto the Bay of Cannes and its cascading pools, this residence is an ode to fluidity and freedom. More than just a house, it is a science-fiction setting brought to life, a symbol of a bold and futuristic Côte d’Azur.
