_Antibes: The Bay of Billionaires
Antibes: The Bay of Billionaires
Lifestyle
Often referred to as the ‘Bay of Billionaires’, Antibes is one of the most legendary locations in the French Riviera. Nestled on the tip of the Cap d’ Antibes, the rocky outcrop overlooking the Mediterranean between Cannes and Nice has always been a huge draw for Russian buyers attracted to the Cote d’Azur.
The area began enticing the world’s richest and most influential people at the end of the 19th century, when the likes of King Leopold II of Belgium and Baroness Rothschild started building expensive villas here. The bay quickly became popular with Europeans and especially Americans, who threw there lavish parties often attended by celebrated writers such as Francis Scott Fitzgerald.
Many prominent Russians have had a presence in the Cap D’Antibes. Dmitry Romanov, a descendent of house of Romanov, was born in the still standing Villa Thenard in 1926, after his parents fled the revolution.
Above: Katya Zenkovich, a Partner within Knight Frank's Global Prime Team enjoys the view in Antibes
Sitting just around the corner is the spectacularly restored, and classically designed, Chateau de la Croe, which is now owned by Roman Abramovich. In the past, this great building was a residence for The Duke and Duchess of Windsor as well as the setting for Winston and Clementine Churchill’s 40th wedding anniversary.
The Bay of Billionaires is also a home for Villa Hier, a property that is considered to be one of a few belonging to Russian businessman Suleiman Kerimov. This amazing villa features prominently in ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’, a classic film starring Michael Caine. By the way, just next to it, another Russian billionaire is selling his French estate. Arguably the best Estate on Cap D’Antibes it consists of Principal Residence, Family Villa, Guest House, Spa and leisure facilities and 12 ha of exceptionally manicured mature gardens.
Above: A view of the spectacular Villa Hier, made famous by Michael Caine's Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Despite being clearly about rich people, this part of the Riviera also remains one of the most romantic and inspiring places to live out one’s dreams. This is highlighted by the wealth of creative individuals such as Marc Chagall, Monet and Picasso, who all made this part of France their home.
Abiove: Chateau De la Garoup
Properties are very expensive here and rarely come to the open market. But if you are interested, please contact me for more details. I’ll be able to find something truly exceptional for you.
Katya Zenkovich is a Partner within Knight Frank's Global Prime offering, a specialist group of experts dedicated to transacting the world’s finest properties.
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