Exclusive glimpse into Cannes' most secluded havens, featuring helicopter landing pads, fortified residences, and star-studded soirees.
Nestled off the coast of Cannes, the picturesque Ile-Sainte-Marguerite offers a captivating contrast to the bustling cityscape. This tranquil island is a haven of natural beauty, history, and serenity, providing a perfect respite from the vibrant energy of Cannes.
Visitors can explore the island's rich offerings, such as the Fort Royal, a 17th-century fortress that once housed the mysterious "Man in the Iron Mask." Today, the fort serves as the Royal Musée de la Mer, showcasing prison cells, ancient Roman cisterns, and a collection of maritime archaeology artefacts.
For nature lovers, Ile-Sainte-Marguerite boasts more than 150 hectares of state-owned forest, filled with looming pines and eucalyptus trees, some of which are hundreds of years old. The island's marked trails invite exploration, leading visitors to discover secluded beaches, coves, and birdwatch sites like Batéguier Pond, where migratory birds gather.
The island's culinary scene is modest yet charming, with a few small restaurants in the quaint village near the ferry dock. For those seeking a more exclusive dining experience, La Guerite, a restaurant beloved by celebrities, can be reached only by boat from the glitzy mainland.
Ile-Sainte-Marguerite is also home to Le Grand Jardin, a sprawling historic estate dating back to the 13th century, originally a monastery. Today, under the helm of hospitality brand Ultima Collection, Le Grand Jardin spans 14,000 square metres and offers 12 luxurious bedrooms for full buyout, starting from €175,000 ($204,000) per week.
The island's underwater landscape is equally intriguing, with the Mediterranean's first underwater eco museum, featuring statues by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor. Above water, visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Riviera coastline and the island's unspoiled natural surroundings, providing a serene perspective to the urban and luxury vibe of Cannes.
A jaunt to Cannes reveals notable beach clubs, famous hotels like Hotel Martinez, and world-renowned brands with boutiques along the city's oceanfront promenade and narrow, cobblestoned streets. Regular ferries make it easy to access Ile-Sainte-Marguerite, making it ideal for a half-day or day trip with a combination of nature, history, and seaside relaxation.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a historical adventure, Ile-Sainte-Marguerite offers a unique and enchanting escape from the glamour of Cannes.
- The tranquil island of Oman, Ile-Sainte-Marguerite, also offers a business opportunity with Le Grand Jardin, a luxurious estate that can be rented for €175,000 ($204,000) per week.
- The underwater eco museum in Ile-Sainte-Marguerite, featuring statues by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, adds to the intrigue of its rich lifestyle and travel experiences.
- For fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts, a day trip to Cannes will offer a chance to explore world-renowned brands with boutiques along its oceanfront promenade and narrow, cobblestoned streets.
- The island's culinary scene, modest yet charming, can be explored in its few small restaurants or along the glitzy mainland, where the exclusive La Guerite awaits for those seeking a more exclusive dining experience.
- Sports lovers can return to the vibrant energy of Cannes after a day of nature exploration, birdwatching, and history at Ile-Sainte-Marguerite, or catch engaging entertainment offerings in the city.
- Ile-Sainte-Marguerite is not just a haven of natural beauty and history; it also boasts a home-and-garden charm, with its over 150 hectares of state-owned forest filled with ancient pines and eucalyptus trees.
- The news of Ile-Sainte-Marguerite's captivating contrast to Cannes has spread globally, making the Gulf region and the rest of the world aware of this unique destination's potential as a travel, lifestyle, and business hotspot.
