Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

Between the countryside and the sea, the peninsula of St Jean -Cap-Ferrat has all the charm of an enchanting, well-preserved town in a beautiful leafy setting. The peninsula became a winter holiday venue at the end of the 19th century, attracting wealthy British, Russian and Belgian families who made it into a renowned destination. During the 1950s tourism became more summer-orientated and Saint-Jean became a fashionable seaside resort welcoming celebrities and political figures from around the world. Famous painters, notably Matisse, also stayed there. The wealthy influx led to the construction of ever more sumptuous luxury villas scattered among the lush vegetation of Alpes-Maritimes.
The Cap can be explored on foot along the coastal footpath which runs around the peninsula. There is a wonderful walk from the village of Saint Jean to Plage de Passable beach, facing the Bay of Villefranche-sur-mer, which takes about 2 hours. The viewing points between the rocks, vegetation and beautiful houses are simply amazing. Stop off for a swim or a rest at one of the many unspoilt coves with crystal clear water in one of the loveliest parts of the Côte d’Azur – sheer bliss !
Another marvellous walk is along the « Promenade Maurice Rouvier » from Saint Jean to Beaulieu-sur-Mer (near Plage des Fourmis beach) with the Villa Kérylos in the background. Stop off on the way at the delightful Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild to admire the stunning architecture, furniture, paintings, china, themed gardens and fountains in a magnificent setting.