It is more than a century since the Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat opened the doors for its first summer season, kick-starting the parties that attracted the glitterati of the age. Coco Chanel, Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor all crossed the threshold. Today, the hotel remains at the heart of the Riviera’s schedule of festivals, regattas, parties and soirées, from April to September – and with expert guidance, you can find the ideal rental property from which to enjoy the season, whether you are planning to lean into events or settle down to work.
The Riviera’s social scene kicks off in May with film stars and fast cars at the Festival de Cannes and the Monaco Grand Prix. And if you’re planning to book a rental for the rest of the summer season, now is the time to act. A villa can offer privacy and the scope to entertain – and for many the convenience of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is hard to beat.
“The proximity to Monaco is a huge advantage – the Grand Prix, the Monte-Carlo Masters tennis, gala dinners and casino nights are a quick helicopter ride or car transfer away,” says Amélie Delange, luxury seasonal rentals agent at Savills Beaulieu-sur-Mer. “But Cap-Ferrat also offers something increasingly rare during event season – genuine privacy and serenity a short ride from Monaco.”
With its pine-shaded paths, belle époque charm and stunning coastal views, the Cap feels like a retreat without ever seeming remote from the Côte d’Azur’s calendar – and Nice is conveniently close.
