Cap Ferrat: Stroll along the Billionaires' Cape
Cap Ferrat is one of the most picturesque capes on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious villas and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. This peninsula, separating Beaulieu-sur-Mer from Villefranche-sur-Mer, is often referred to as the “billionaires’ peninsula” due to the huge private estates hidden behind high fences. The coastal path along the shore allows you to enjoy crystal-clear waters, limestone coves, and panoramic views that are particularly cherished by photographers.
🌊 A Cape that will Capture Your Heart
Cap Ferrat is not just a geographical feature, but a place where nature and luxury come together. The 4 km-long peninsula offers some of the most beautiful landscapes on the entire French Riviera. Here you can spend a whole day exploring:
- Coastal paths with sea views
- Secluded coves with transparent water
- The historic lighthouse at the southern tip
“Cap Ferrat is a place where time slows down, and the beauty of nature makes you forget about the hustle and bustle,” notes local guide Marie Dupont.
🚶♂️ Walking Route around the Cape
The main wealth of Cap Ferrat is the 14-kilometre walking trail that surrounds the entire peninsula. The route starts at the port of Villefranche-sur-Mer and passes by the most picturesque spots. The eastern part of the cape is especially beautiful, where the trail winds among pines and rocks, offering views of the open sea. In 1951, the lighthouse, destroyed during World War II, was restored here and now serves as an excellent landmark for walks.
🏰 Villas and Their Famous Owners
Cap Ferrat has long been a favourite destination for wealthy people from around the world. Among the most famous residences are:
- Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild with nine themed gardens
- Villa Maria Serena, once owned by King Leopold II of Belgium
- Villa Les Cèdres with the largest private botanical garden in Europe
“These houses are not just dwellings, but works of art created by the best architects of their time,” says historian Pierre Lambert in an interview with a local magazine.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Photographers particularly appreciate Cap Ferrat for its variety of perspectives. The most popular places for shooting:
- The viewpoint near the lighthouse - a 360-degree panorama
- Paloma Bay with its turquoise water
- The trail along the eastern coast at sunset
In June 2019, the official account of the tourist office @visitcotedazur posted a photo that received over 10,000 likes - a bird’s eye view of the cape.
🕰 Historical Milestones of Cap Ferrat
The history of the cape spans several centuries:
- 1827: The first lighthouse was built under the Kingdom of Sardinia
- 1944: The lighthouse was destroyed during the liberation of France
- 1951: Restoration of the lighthouse in its modern form
- 1960s: Peak of construction of luxury villas
Today, Cap Ferrat remains a symbol of prestige and natural beauty on the French Riviera, attracting tourists from around the world.