Villefranche & Rothschild Foundation

OVERVIEW

Savor the laidback ambiance of the fishing village Villefranche as a prelude to visiting the opulent former residence of the baroness Béatrice Rothschild. A 16th-century citadel overlooks Villefranche, which you will explore on a meandering walk through the narrow passageways of the medieval old quarter. It still exudes the charm that attracted artists such as Jean Cocteau, who famously painted the walls of the Saint-Pierre chapel in the 1950s. On the nearby Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, you will visit the lavish rose-colored estate that the baroness bequeathed to the Académie des Beaux-Arts foundation following her death in 1934. Compared to Villefranche, the mansion will seem absolutely decadent as it is filled with exquisite furnishings and priceless works of art. The nine, organically maintained gardens that surround the residence are just as magnificent. Fruit trees, flowering bushes, a koi pond and a fountain that spews water to classical music are just a few of the highlights.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through the medieval Old Town of Villefranche with a knowledgeable guide.
• Behold the lavish seaside residence where baroness Béatrice Rothschild lived.
• Explore the nine meticulously manicured gardens that surround the estate.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.