Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a Riviera retreat like no other

Perched high on the verdant hilltop of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat in the French Riviera, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild serves as a stunning testament to the luxurious elegance of the Belle Époque era. Commissioned by the ambitious and art-loving Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, the villa offers visitors a tantalizing glimpse into the past, steeped in grandeur and opulence. Now a national monument, this palatial residence epitomizes the quintessential Riviera experience for discerning travellers.

As the seashell-pink façade of the villa comes into view, it becomes apparent that the Baroness’s vision for her residence was one of unrivalled extravagance and a touch of whimsy. Designed by French architect Aaron Messiah, the villa is a glorious mix of architectural styles—primarily inspired by the Italian Renaissance, but with elements borrowed from the Gothic and classical eras. The result is a palatial residence that stands as a timeless embodiment of early 20th-century luxury and excess.

The Baroness, a member of the illustrious Rothschild banking family, was an avid collector of art, and her personal collection now decorates the villa’s nine salons. Each salon is designed around a specific theme, offering an immersive experience into the varying facets of the Baroness’s taste. From the grandeur of the French salon adorned with 18th-century art to the intimate charm of the monkey salon with its wall coverings depicting lively scenes of monkeys playing in the wilderness, the collection is a masterclass in art and history.

Housed in the very space that once served as Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild’s dining room, the Tea Room in Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild offers an enchanting culinary respite. With a tranquil view of the Bay of Villefranche that can be fully savoured from the terrace, this is a serene oasis where guests can pause and enjoy delightful treats throughout the day. Come lunchtime, the Tea Room showcases a light menu offering dishes such as fresh salads, delectable quiches, and a daily special. On bright, sunny days, guests can relish their meals on the terrace under the lush canopy of orange trees, imbibing the captivating charm of the Riviera.

One of the villa’s most striking features is its gardens, often touted as among the best in France. Spanning seven hectares, the gardens are divided into nine distinct themes: French, Spanish, Florentine, Lapidary, Japanese, Provençal, exotic, a rose garden, and a stone garden. The Baroness was keen to recreate the ambience of her travels, resulting in an eclectic mix of styles. The French garden, designed around a large pool, is home to an assortment of sculptures, while the exotic garden hosts rare plant species. Notably, the gardens are enhanced by the ‘Musical Fountains’ show, where the fountains dance in rhythm with classical music—an enchanting spectacle that adds a touch of magic to the entire estate.

While the interiors and gardens alone are awe-inspiring, the villa’s location is its crowning jewel. The panoramic views of the Riviera coastline and the azure Mediterranean Sea are truly breathtaking. From the tranquil Japanese garden, one can enjoy an unobstructed view of the iconic Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Meanwhile, from the villa’s tearoom, visitors can savour French pastries while feasting their eyes on the sublime Côte d’Azur landscapes.

Despite being a sought-after attraction, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild retains an air of tranquillity, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. Visitors are encouraged to take leisurely strolls through the gardens, lounge in the tearoom, or explore the Baroness’s private apartments at their own pace. Moreover, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild also serves as an exclusive venue for a range of events.

In a world where luxury is often equated with modernity, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild serves as a glorious reminder of the timeless appeal of grand architecture, beautiful gardens, stunning art collections, and breathtaking views. A journey to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is more than just a visit—it’s an experience, a voyage through history, and a taste of the opulent lifestyle that was once the norm for the world’s elite.

For further information, visit villa-ephrussi.com