French Riviera Sights

Guidebooks

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  

Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Review

Between the port and the mainland, the floridly beautiful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild bears witness to the wealth and worldly flair of the baroness who had it built. Constructed in 1905 in neo-Venetian style (its flamingo-pink facade was thought not to be in the best of taste by the local gentry), the house was baptized "Ile-de-France" in homage to the Baroness Bétrice de Rothschild's favorite ocean liner. In keeping with that theme, her staff used to wear sailing costumes and her ship travel kit is on view in her bedroom. Precious artworks, tapestries, and furniture adorn the salons—in typical Rothschildian fashion, each is given over to a different 18th-century "époque." Upstairs are the private apartments of Madame la Baronne, which can only be seen on a guided tour offered around noon. The grounds are landscaped with no fewer than seven gardens and topped off with a Temple of Diana. Be sure to allow yourself time to wander here, as this is one of the few places on the coast where you'll be allowed to experience the lavish pleasures characteristic of the Belle Époque Côte d'Azur. Tea and light lunches, served in a glassed-in porch overlooking the grounds and spectacular coastline, encourage you to linger. A combination ticket allows you to also visit Villa Kerylos in nearby Beaulieu in the same week.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Av. Ephrussi, St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, 06230 | Map It
  • Phone: 04-93-01-33-09
  • Cost: €12; €19 for both villas
  • Hours: Mid-Feb--June and Sept.--Oct., daily 10--6; July and Aug., daily 10--7; Nov.--mid-Feb., weekdays 2--6, weekends 10--6
  • Website: www.villa-ephrussi.com
  • Location: St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Review

    It really was amazing. The gardens are incredible -- even in early November. The villa was an amazing display of what a collector of all sorts of things can do -- especially when you have lots of money! The china collection is evident in several rooms on 2 floors.We were there on a very very blustery day -- huge wind gusts. This made the views over the sea very dramatic. Yet at points in the garden, despite the gales blowing, it was quite and calm.

    I was glad to be there when it wasn't swarming with other tourists. A wonderful experience recommended regardless of the time of year.

    by tansay, 11/8/11
  • Experience  
    Ease  
    Value  
    Don't Miss  

    Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Review

    One of the prettiest places on The Riviera. We thoroughly enjoyed the extensive garden and fully furnished villa.

    by TPAYT, 3/29/11

Add your own review

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

· Browse French Riviera sights

By Location

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in The French Riviera

* Some taxes, fees additional

· Forums Trip Reports

View more trip reports

·

  • Reporting from Paris May 12-25

    This will be an ongoing report of our trip.
    Trip # 9 for my husband and myself.
    Thanks for all the help.
    Monday may 12
    Arrived after a smooth flight,our friend Lucien was there to meet us and take us to Read more

View more travel discussions

· News & Features

View more blog stories