The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is one of the most spectacular historic villas on the French Riviera. Built in 1912 for Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, a member of the famous banking family, the villa was designed as her dream residence overlooking the Bay of Villefranche.

The pink-and-white Neo-Classical villa, originally called Villa Île-de-France, reflects the baroness’s passion for travel, art, and architecture. Inside, visitors can admire lavish interiors filled with fine antiques, tapestries, porcelain, and artworks, including pieces connected to the painter Fragonard. The rooms are arranged around a covered courtyard that enhances the elegant Mediterranean atmosphere.

The true highlight of the estate is the series of nine themed gardens, each inspired by different cultures and landscapes. These include French, Spanish, Florentine, Japanese, and exotic gardens, all decorated with sculptures, fountains, and carefully designed plant collections. Many viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramas over both sides of the Cap Ferrat peninsula.

A visit is not complete without stopping at the tea room terrace, which overlooks the gardens and the bay of Villefranche. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful places on the Riviera for a relaxed coffee or light lunch.

👉 Local tip: Time your visit to watch the musical fountain display in the French garden, when water jets dance in rhythm with music while the villa rises above the gardens in the background.