A haven of lush gardens and grand private villas on a rocky wind-swept peninsula, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat epitomises the tranquil, old-school glamour of the French Riviera. Once popular with the likes of Charlie Chaplin and David Niven, it remains remarkably unspoilt by the crowds which descend on the region each summer. If you’re dreaming of fabulous food, beautiful heritage architecture and wonderful beach days, you’re in the right spot. Selected for their location, amenities and design, our pick of the best places to stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are brilliant for friends, families and couples alike.
Amble along 14 kilometres of striking coastal trails, stretching right to the wild, windy tip of the peninsula, or wind your way between the Belle Epoque mansions of the town centre on paved and shaded paths. The Sentier du Littoral is a delight for hikers and explorers. Heritage buffs and art lovers, on the other hand, will delight in visiting Villa Kerylos, a true-to-size replica of an ancient Greek villa, built in the 1900s by French archaeologist Theodore Reinach. The lavish Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild — also called Villa Île-de-France — houses 5000 works of art and features superb gardens, whilst the ornate Chapelle de Saint Pierre des Pêcheurs in Villefranche is a historic delight.
For sun-drenched days at the seaside, head to Paloma Beach. Swim, sunbathe, sail, hire a boat for the day or try scuba diving with the reputed The Cap Ferrat Diving School. There are fantastic bars and seafood eateries for long lunches or picturesque sundowners, too. Grand, imposing and with famous restaurants of their own, the best places to stay in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat also promise a dining experience to remember.