Despite its reputation as a high-end beach destination, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat has managed to preserve its own unique character. There are a few stores at the marina of the hamlet, but if you really want to shop, you need head to Nice, Cannes, or Monaco.
With the exception of the historic monument and garden-like grounds of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, visitors to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat are more likely to be interested in the area’s natural attractions and outdoor activities than its cultural offerings. The peninsula boasts some of the most beautiful scenery along the coast of the French Riviera. In wet weather, you’ll see that there’s no point in visiting Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
Paloma Beach
La Paloma is Saint-Jean-Cap-most Ferrat’s well-known beach. In terms of Instagram popularity, it is one of the top 10 beaches in France. It cannot be denied that this secluded spot in the woods is beautiful. The beach looks east toward the cliffs and the town of Eze. Paloma Beach Restaurant occupies a quiet section of the beach, making it an ideal anchorage for day-trippers who have rented a boat. Due to the lack of shelter provided by the peninsula, the beach is cast into darkness by late afternoon. As a result, the beach at Fosses is our preferred destination. However, it remains one of the most beautiful sights.
Tower of Ponite Saint-Hospice
If you don’t have much time to see all of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, I recommend at least doing this walk around Pointe Saint-Hospice. This route offers a beautiful summation of the peninsula’s sceneries, and it takes you by some of the most beautiful beaches along the way. The village’s central harbor doubles as the journey’s origin and destination. From the trail, you may see the historic Saint-Hospice Chapel. Those who forego the side trip to the chapel can cover the same distance in 1 hour and thirty minutes and avoid the minimal elevation gain.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
Baroness The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild was built by Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild between 1907 and 1912 on the cliffs of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. Béatrice’s apartments, a patio with Verona marble pillars, and a plethora of plush sitting areas furnished in Louis XVI style and decorated with tapestries, ceramics, and chinoiserie make up the villa’s interior. The Baroness has one of the finest collections of French porcelain in the dining room.
The outside of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which is surrounded by lovely gardens, is also open to visitors. A rose garden and gardens in the French, Spanish, Florentine, Japanese, and exotic styles are only some of the nine architectural themes represented. The gardens are most beautiful in the spring and summer.
One of Beatrice’s former dining rooms has been transformed into a quaint restaurant tea room with a terrace overlooking the bay of Villefranche. The fact that the menu was developed by a chef justifies the astronomical prices. Villas of a similar design are available for seasonal rent, complete with every conceivable amenity and breathtaking panorama.
