Boasting privacy, calm and some of the most exceptional scenery, this idyllic setting is an all-time international favourite, and quite a few celebrities have left their mark on the history of Cap Ferrat.

Set out into the Mediterranean sea overlooking both the vibrant Villefranche bay and the outsized yachts of the Beaulieu marina, the coastline offers stunning vistas and an ever changing panorama. 

An ideal way to explore this popular location is by foot and a trio of coastal walks adding up to approximately 6km take you to the very sea front, past charming coves, tempting beaches, inviting picnic spots and of course a glimpse of some of the most exclusive waterfront property and luxury villas.* 

The local team of Savills Cap Ferrat are delighted to call this exceptional part of the world home and share below their favourite spots along the Cap Ferrat coastline to help you explore this stunning setting. And just in case this has you dreaming of your next holiday home, we have included a selection of stunning Cap Ferrat villas and apartments to tempt you further.

A perfect spot for sun bathing 

Whether you start from East or West, you will find many perfect coves for sunbathing, and the beaches of Passable and Paloma are strong favourites. Passable overlooks the bay of Villefranche and is an ideal spot for families and paddle boarders whilst Paloma is a favourite celebrity hideout from which you can survey the yachts in Beaulieu harbour.

A namesake

Part of the walk covering the Pointe Saint-Hospice is an in-and-out between coastal paths and maritime pines offering a glimpse of the Saint-Hospice chapel dating from the 11th century which takes its name from the Benedictine monk Hospitius, who lived in the tower around 575 AD. The chapel displays an account of the life and miracles of Saint-Hospice.

Step into history

It is possible to divide the walk into three separate parts, the promenade Maurice Rouvier, the Saint-Hospice headland and the Tour of Cap Ferrat. The latter takes you around the largest section of the peninsula and past some of the most iconic Cap Ferrat villas and landmarks including the 5-star Grand-Hotel du Cap Ferrat, the lighthouse and the Sémaphore. Now a historic monument, the lighthouse dates from the 16th century whilst the Semaphore was built on Napoleon’s orders and is still used by the French Navy today.

Flower power

Due to the setting and topography, Cap Ferrat offers a microclimate ensuring that many unusual plants species thrive. Book a free French language tour of the exceptional botanic gardens via the Tourist Information office and discover this urban jungle yourself. Please note, tours run on selected dates between March to June and September to October.

An iconic landmark

As you enter Cap Ferrat, you pass a nondescript side road which actually leads to one of the most exquisite villas and gardens of the whole Riviera. Villa Rothschild overlooks the Cap Ferrat with extensive gardens laid out in exquisite formal and exotic styles. Open to the public all year round, a visit to this exceptional property offers an insight into the yesteryear of the Riviera. Bookings are required, and the insider tip says to visit during one of the summer open evenings.

An ideal place to finish your walk

The team have a firm favourite route for the walk and it may have something to do with ice cream! Walking the Cap in a clockwise fashion ensures you end up in the historic port which is full of bustling cafes, restaurants and pretty boutiques where it is always possible to find a sweet treat as a reward.

Ships ahoy

With its fishing village past, Cap Ferrat and St Jean Village still boast a busy port and remains an important epicentre of activity with space for 560 boats plus onshore boutiques, restaurants and space for numerous exhibitions, concerts and events.

Pretty in pink

The flatter tarmacked section of the walk known as Promenade Maurice Rouvier connecting Beaulieu and Saint-Jean village is popular and offers some beautiful views of the hilltop towns of Eze and La Turbie in addition to the utterly charming and iconic pink waterfront villa at Place Niven, named after David Niven, an erstwhile owner. The house in fact featured in The Trail of the Pink Panther (1983) and was also owned by Charlie Chaplin, and previous residents include the Duchess of Marlborough and Leopold III.

If you are keen to explore owning, renting or investing in property in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat our local, multilingual team would be delighted to assist.

Think Property. Think Savills.

*Please note, prior to undertaking the walk we suggest you check with the local tourist information office to confirm access and suitability. Weather, storms or essential works can close the path. Not all parts of the path have a railing and can be quite narrow or steep and therefore great care is required and the path may not be suitable for all ages.