The resort paradise of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: history and attractions

History of the resort

At the end of the 19th century, the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula underwent significant changes, becoming a well-known resort thanks to the intervention of the Compagnie Générale des Eaux, which created a large artificial lake here and contributed to the development of a richer and more diverse flora.

The Belgian King Leopold II played a key role in the history of the resort, as he acquired a vast piece of land at the end of the 19th century and built the luxurious villa "Le Cedre" on it. Today, this villa, one of the most expensive in the world, is a historical and cultural monument protected by the authorities. Last year, a Ukrainian company owned by a billionaire became the new owner of this villa.

Famous guests

Since the beginning of the 20th century, winter tourism has been actively developing on the French Riviera, attracting wealthy English and Russians. Among the guests who visited this resort were famous personalities whose names are still known to many today.

Among the attendees were:

• Edith Piaf
• Charlie Chaplin
• Elizabeth Taylor
• Jean-Paul Belmondo
• Tony Curtis

• General de Gaulle
• Winston Churchill
• George W. Bush
• Bill Clinton
• Boris Yeltsin

Today

Today, the peninsula is home to less than two thousand people in an area of only 2.48 square kilometers. About a third or even half of the population is made up of wealthy foreigners, including businessmen, bankers, former ministers and owners of large companies. Cap Ferrat continues to attract lovers of luxury and beauty with its unique combination of historic villas, exotic vegetation and breathtaking scenery, making it one of the most attractive places to live and vacation on the Côte d'Azur.

On the Cap-Ferrat peninsulaSurrounded by the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, life flows slowly, in the rhythm of the waves. Only a handful of lucky ones can boast the status of permanent residents, while others come here in search of solitude and luxury, especially during the summer months or, less frequently, in the winter season.

During the global crisis caused by the pandemic, the peninsula became a refuge for those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. To stay updated on the latest trends in the foreignreal estate market, one can join a community in a messenger where updates and analysis are regularly published.

Active recreation and entertainment

Cap Ferrat- this is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking entertainment in nature. Here, you can enjoy hiking along trails that wind along the coastline, through shady pine groves, and past majestic mansions. The total length of these routes is about 14 kilometers, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the local nature.

For those who prefer water sports, there are all the conditions for surfing, diving, and other water activities. And for beach lovers, the peninsula offers secluded coves and beaches with well-developed infrastructure.

Beaches and gastronomy

Cap-Ferrat beaches- it is a true treasure for those seeking solitude. Some of them are hard to reach, which only adds to their charm. However, most tourists prefer beaches that offer all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Among them, the private beaches Paloma and Passable stand out, as well as the public beach Cro de Pei Pin, which is especially popular among French families.

Gastronomic delights of Cap Ferratgourmets will also be left indifferent. In numerous restaurants, you can try local cuisine while enjoying magnificent views of the sea. For those seeking more refined culinary adventures, it's worth visiting nearby Monaco or Cannes. However, even in

The city of Saint-Jean-Cap-FerratLocated on the peninsula, it does not have an extensive public transport network - the only bus, number 15, runs from Nice to the historic city center. However, this does not deter tourists who want to enjoy a beach holiday in a cozy corner of the French Riviera. Residents of neighboring towns and Villefranche can also take advantage of this bus service.

Benefits of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferré

One of the main advantages of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is its location in close proximity to other well-known resorts. Among them are Porto Cervo, Forte dei Marmi, Marbella, and Courchevel. Additionally, the town is famous for its elite real estate.

Division of the city

The city is divided into several neighborhoods. At the beginning of the peninsula is the prime area with luxury apartments and villas. However, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferré you can mainly find beautiful villas with a private beach, apartment complexes are a rarity here.

Walk and attractions

For a walk along the eastern side of Cap Ferrat, you can head to the Bolieu beach, from where the Maurice Rouvier Promenade begins, leading to the center and the port. Along the way, you can find several secluded coves for swimming. The western side of the cape attracts potential real estate buyers with its sunsets and panoramic sea views, as well as the location of villas in close proximity to the water. Here you will find the popular pebble beach Passable and several luxurious private villas.

South side and hotel

The south side of the cape is known for its grand hotel, the Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat, which is one of the most luxurious hotels on the French Riviera. Nearby is the preferred resort area of foreign buyers. Here, the Mediterranean greenery is so abundant that the town feels cozy and secluded, yet undeniably private.

A unique place to relax

Saint-Jean-Cap-FerratDespite its small size, it is a unique place where there are vacation options for those who like to enjoy nature and the sea.

The unique resort of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a picturesque corner of France where you can enjoy tranquility by the rugged coastline.

In the world of luxury real estateWhere every step is accompanied by strict rules and requirements, the Cap-Ferrat peninsula in southern France attracts attention with its unique prestige and high prices. Despite the limitations and challenges associated with modernizing existing buildings, the real estate market in Cap-Ferrat continues to evolve.

Infrastructure development and construction

For potential investors in this area, it is crucial to consider that any changes to the architecture or landscape must be approved by the relevant authorities and professional architects who preserve the unique character of the region. Even the smallest changes on the site require official permission.

Activity of the winter period

In winter, construction activity on the peninsula increases as villa owners seek to expand their properties, improving them by adding new features or increasing the size of their pools. However, many of these works are carried out in secret and are only accessible to a narrow circle of interested parties, without becoming public knowledge.

Real estate prices

The real estate prices in Cap-Ferrat are so captivating that a typical villa by the sea with a view of the Mediterranean can cost millions of euros. For those who prefer more affordable options, there are apartments starting from 450,000 to 500,000 euros for a standard property.

Market prices and statistics

According to MeilleursAgents, the average price per square meter for houses in Cap-Ferrat in November 2021 was €18,500, while for apartments it was €12,700. Now, it is not Paris, but Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat that has become the most expensive city in France, with a price per square meter close to €14,000. Similar prices are also observed in the communes of Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Villefranche-sur-Mer.

Buyer interest

Interest in real estate in Cap-Ferrat remains strong, attracting European clients from various countries, including the French, Germans, Belgians, Italians, and Swiss, who are interested in properties priced at 5-6 million euros. Currently, an increasing number of Paris residents are also turning to...

Exclusive real estate in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The exclusive resort of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has a variety of properties for sale and rent. One of the most unique properties is a villa right on the beach with stunning sea and harbor views. This 270 sqm three-storey house has just been renovated and consists of 5 en-suite bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms and a roof terrace with spa pool.

Elite real estate options

• Villa with a pool:The area of 380 sq.m. with a plot of land of 2 700 sq.m., on the prestigious peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, 7 bedrooms, garage for 2 cars;
• Modern villa:A four-story building with an area of 568 sq.m., sea view, extensive terraces, and a garden of 3119 sq.m., featuring 7 bedrooms;
• Mediterranean villa:A 220 sq.m. property in the Cap Ferrat area, 200 meters from the Grand Hotel du Cap, with 7 bedrooms.

A estate for a true aristocrat

If you want a real estate of 1 hectare in Cape Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, look no further than this 800 sqm bourgeois villa. This is a rare offering on the Côte d'Azur with 8 bedrooms, spacious living rooms and bourgeois-style terraces.

Unique complex of villas

A complex of 3 villas located in the very center of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers private direct access to the port, two swimming pools, and well-maintained gardens covering 2100 sq.m. The total living area is 700 sq.m., making this complex an ideal choice for those looking to live in luxury on the French Riviera.

History of the resort

The Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula became a resort in the late 19th to early 20th century. Previously, there were only a few fishing cottages around the church and the port on the rocky land. The situation changed when a French irrigation company created an artificial lake here.

Famous residences

Belgian King Leopold II opened Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to a wide range of vacationers. In 1899, he purchased a large plot of land where he built the villa "Les Cedres." Since then, the peninsula has seen the development of tourist infrastructure and winter tourism.

Useful information

• The resort covers an area of 2.48 square kilometers
• The resort has a population of less than 2,000 people, and of those, a third or even half are wealthy foreigners.
• The main types of entertainment at the resort include walks along well-maintained tourist trails, water and beach activities, as well as relaxation in numerous restaurants.

Walking routes

On Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, there are a huge number of well-maintained paths along the sea and rocky cliffs, as well as through pine groves. Their total length is about 14 km. All the trails are fenced and safe, making them suitable for walks with strollers and accessible for people with limited mobility.

Beaches

• Paloma is a private beach that ranks among the top ten beaches of the French Riviera.
• Passable is another beautiful private beach
• Cro de Pei Pin – a public beach, especially popular among French families with children.

Restaurants

On Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, there are many nice restaurants for tourists with affordable prices. But if you want to try star-level dishes, you should head to Monaco or towards Cannes.

Transport

The main and most convenient mode of transport in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is cars. The interior of the area is not suitable for walking or cycling. If you prefer to stroll, you can walk around the resort's perimeter or take a walk through the village, which means exploring the old town and its port.