Discover the Villa and Gardens Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
One of the spectacular highlights of staying in Villefranche sur Mer is undoubtedly the experience of visiting the breathtaking Villa and Gardens Ephrussi de Rothschild
The deliciously feminine home of Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild is located on Cap Ferrat, the eastern flank of Villefranche harbour. The Villa has magnificent views across the fabulous themed gardens, as well as the Mediterranean, and back towards the mountains of the Riviera.
Imagine stepping into a world where history, art, and natural beauty come together in perfect harmony. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild offers just that experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply someone who appreciates exquisite beauty, this villa is a must-visit destination. Let's dive into the fascinating history, architectural splendour, and breathtaking features of this remarkable estate.
The entire Villa Rothschild is pink and white ... oh!
Surrounded by a magnificently maintained range of ornamental gardens, the Villa is set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea
Inside, the gentle pinks and whites are reflected throughout the interiors. Many beautiful details are reminiscent of the luxury of a bygone era. The Baroness is said to have been inspired by the beauty and location of the nearby Villa Kerylos, her cousin's spectacular reproduction Greek villa, and secured a piece of the then almost-barren Cap Ferrat to create her own vision of early 20th century style and luxury.
The Villa is decorated in what has become known as the ‘Rothschild Style', an eclectic mix of furniture and art, in the finest possible taste and quality. It's easy to picture the life of ease. Of flowing gowns, dressing for dinner, and weekend parties.
The History of the Rothschild Family and the Villa
Béatrice de Rothschild's passion for art and culture is evident throughout the villa
The Rothschild family, one of Europe's wealthiest and most influential families, made their fortune in banking during the 19th century. Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, a member of this illustrious family, was a woman of exceptional taste and a passionate collector of art and antiquities. Born in 1864, Béatrice was known for her impeccable style and sophisticated social gatherings.
In 1905, Béatrice embarked on the ambitious project of building her dream villa on Cap Ferrat, an exclusive and picturesque peninsula on the French Riviera. She chose this location for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and its serene, natural beauty. The villa, completed in 1912, was designed by the renowned architect Aaron Messiah, who brought Béatrice's vision to life with stunning precision.
She meticulously curated a vast collection of fine art, rare porcelain, antique furniture, and precious tapestries, all of which she displayed in her lavish home. Upon her death in 1934, Béatrice generously bequeathed the villa and its contents to the French Academy of Fine Arts, ensuring that her legacy would be preserved for future generations to enjoy.
The Architectural Splendour of the Villa Rothschild
The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture, reflecting Béatrice's love for classical beauty and elegance
The villa's design draws inspiration from the great Renaissance palaces of Italy, featuring harmonious proportions, intricate frescoes, and elegant loggias.
As you approach the villa, you'll be greeted by its distinctive pink facade, which stands out against the lush greenery of Cap Ferrat. The entrance is marked by a grand staircase leading to a spacious terrace, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Inside, the villa's opulent interiors are a testament to Béatrice's refined taste and attention to detail. Each room is adorned with exquisite works of art, including paintings by Old Masters, delicate porcelain, and sumptuous tapestries.
One of the villa's most striking features is its grand salon, a magnificent room with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. The salon opens onto a terrace that overlooks the French garden, providing a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This is where the restaurant is situated, so that you can fully enjoy the vista.
The Magnificent Gardens
The gardens alone took 7 years to construct
The gardens of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild are a true horticultural wonder, spanning over seven hectares and featuring nine distinct themed gardens. At times, hundreds of Italian workers were employed during dynamiting and reconstruction phases. Most of the soil was imported to add substance to the barren and rocky landscape. When Baroness Beatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild purchased the land, the only access was by a mule track. It is now one of the most highly prized locations of the Riviera.
A beautiful pond leads from the Villa, along a formal garden with smaller pools, and up to a white rotunda and waterfall. Several times each hour, the many fountains flirt upwards and ‘dance’ to beautiful classical music which is played throughout the landscape.
Each of the themed gardens is impressive in their own right, and on my first visit I was brought to gentle tears of delight at the sheer beauty of it all. Take some time to sit on a bench in the shade of a magnificent tree, overlooking Villefranche harbour. Enjoy the gentle breeze. Stunning.
Let's take a closer look at the Villa Ephrussi's enchanting gardens
Each garden is a testament to Béatrice's love for nature and her passion for gardening
- The French Garden: The centerpiece of the estate, this formal garden is designed in the style of a Louis XIV garden, with symmetrical pathways, manicured lawns, and ornamental flowerbeds. The highlight of the French garden is its musical fountains, which perform a choreographed water display every twenty minutes, accompanied by classical music.
- The Spanish Garden: This vibrant garden is inspired by the courtyards of Andalusia, featuring colorful tiles, fountains, and a variety of Mediterranean plants, including olive trees and fragrant orange blossoms.
- The Florentine Garden: Reflecting the elegance of Renaissance Italy, this garden boasts statues, fountains, and a grand staircase that leads to a stunning loggia overlooking the sea
- The Stone Garden: A serene and contemplative space, the Stone Garden is adorned with ancient stone relics, moss-covered statues, and a peaceful pond.
- The Japanese Garden: Transport yourself to Japan with this tranquil garden, complete with a koi pond, bamboo groves, and traditional Japanese lanterns. The delicate cherry blossoms add a touch of seasonal beauty in the spring.
- The Exotic Garden: This garden is a riot of color and texture, featuring cacti, succulents, and other exotic plants from arid regions around the world.
- The Rose Garden: A fragrant paradise, the Rose Garden is home to hundreds of varieties of roses, arranged in a stunning display of colors and scents.
- The Provençal Garden: Evoking the charm of rural Provence, this garden is filled with lavender, rosemary, and olive trees, creating a sensory experience that captures the essence of the French countryside.
- The Sèvres Garden: Named after the famous Sèvres porcelain, this garden features porcelain vases and sculptures, adding an artistic touch to the lush greenery.
Art and Culture at the Villa Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
In addition to its breathtaking gardens, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild houses an impressive collection of fine art and antiques
Béatrice de Rothschild's discerning eye for beauty is evident in every room, where you'll find masterpieces by renowned artists, including paintings by Francesco Guardi, Jean-Honoré Fragonard, and François Boucher. The villa also showcases exquisite porcelain from Sèvres and Meissen, as well as rare tapestries and antique furniture.
Throughout the year, the villa hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals that celebrate art, music, and horticulture. One of the most popular events is the annual "Rose and Plant Festival," held in May. This festival attracts garden enthusiasts and horticulturists from around the world, who come to admire rare and exotic plants, attend workshops, and enjoy guided tours of the gardens. Another highlight is the "Night of the Roses," an evening event featuring live music, floral displays, and gourmet food, creating a magical atmosphere under the stars.
Exploring Cap Ferrat
After immersing yourself in the beauty of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, take some time to explore the charming peninsula of Cap Ferrat
Known for its tranquil ambiance, stunning coastal views, and luxurious estates, Cap Ferrat is the perfect place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the French Riviera. Here are a couple of delightful restaurants where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch after your visit to the villa:
- Paloma Beach: Situated right on the water, Paloma Beach offers a chic and relaxed dining experience with breathtaking views of the bay. This beachside restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, including oysters, lobster, and grilled fish, as well as Mediterranean favorites like ratatouille and bouillabaisse. Enjoy a glass of chilled rosé as you savor the flavors of the Riviera.
- La Table du Royal: Located in the luxurious Royal Riviera Hotel, La Table du Royal offers an elegant dining experience with gourmet Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant's terrace provides a stunning backdrop of the sea, making it the perfect spot for a romantic lunch. The menu features creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
If you have the resources, or just want to spoil yourself, here are 2 luxury hotels on Cap Ferrat that I'm sure you would thoroughly love:
- Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat: This iconic hotel offers timeless elegance with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Enjoy world-class dining, a gorgeous infinity pool, and impeccable service.
- Hotel Royal-Riviera: Perched between Cap Ferrat and Beaulieu-sur-Mer, this historic hotel combines Belle Époque charm with modern amenities. It's perfect for a sophisticated yet relaxed stay.
Both of these hotels offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring an unforgettable stay on the French Riviera.
A visit to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is an unforgettable journey through history, art, and nature
From the opulent interiors and exquisite art collection to the enchanting gardens and cultural events, the villa offers a unique and immersive experience that captures the essence of the French Riviera. As you explore this magnificent estate and the surrounding beauty of Cap Ferrat, you'll be transported to a world of elegance and tranquility, where every detail is a testament to the refined taste and vision of Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild. So, why wait? Plan your visit to this enchanting destination and discover the magic of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild for yourself.
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The Villa is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m to 6 p.m, except July and August: from 10 a.m to 7 p.m
November to January: from Monday to Friday from 2 p.m to 6 p.m. Weekends and holidays from 10 a.m to 6 p.m
Full rate: €17 (2024)
Reduced rate: €12 (children 7 to 18 years old, students of -25years old, Education Pass holders and unemployed)
Family rate: €48 (for 2 adults and 2 children aged 7-18 years old)
Free for children -7years old, ICOM/ICOMOS card-holders, journalists and disabled visitors (excluding evening & special events) on presentation of written proof
For all other events, visit their website, where you will find all of the information to plan for your trip - updated regularly.
As with my usual rhetoric, go early before the crowds. Take comfy shoes, and maybe your own picnic lunch. There is a lovely restaurant with a very special ambience and spectacular views.
I love the walk around Villefranche Bay to the Villa (about 3.5kms), and there is a bus back to Villefranche, and Nice (or Beaulieu or beyond) when you’re finished. The ladies in the shop will help you out with times…ask them when you get there. And don't forget, Villa Kerylos is not far away (some would enjoy the walk). Why not discover both, perhaps on the same day? Or go early to Eze, then make your way down to the Villa for a pleasant afternoon tea. You won't be disappointed.
As with my usual rhetoric, go early before the crowds. Take comfy shoes, and maybe your own picnic lunch. There is a lovely restaurant with a very special ambience and spectacular views.
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Did Baroness Kitty live here too? I thought it was only the home of Beatrice Ephrussi. I am most interested to find out if this was also Kitty’s home.
Author
Hi Fiona
Thank you for taking so much time to comment on my blog, and in particular for pointing out what I think is most definitely a mistake in my content. To be honest, I’m not sure how I got the impression that ‘Kitty’ was Beatrice, but I can see now that I was mistaken. Thank you so much for your input. I love the fact that you are so interested in this story. It’s an exquisite place.
I’m off to fix it up right now. Thanks so much. 🙂 XX