4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Escape to Le Grand Jardin: The French Riviera's Most Magical Hidden Estate
If you're craving a reset that's private, poetic, and impossibly chic – you've just found your next escape.
Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong and sea breeze, in a villa once owned by royalty – no crowds, no traffic, just sun-dappled serenity on your own private island. Welcome to Le Grand Jardin by Ultima Collection – the only private estate on the legendary Île Sainte-Marguerite, just off the coast of Cannes.
Surrounded by turquoise waters and wild pine forest, the property feels like a world of its own – serene, cinematic, and somehow still under-the-radar. Once owned by Louis XIV and a favourite of modern day royalty and A-List celebrities, Le Grand Jardin has been masterfully reimagined into a modern sanctuary without losing an ounce of its soul. Picture stone courtyards shaded by citrus trees, botanical gardens that stretch into the sea, and architecture that whispers history in every arch and window.
The estate includes 13 beautifully appointed bedrooms spread across multiple buildings – including the original watchtower, a Governor's House, and guest cottages.
Inside, interiors strike the perfect balance between effortless Mediterranean charm and modern luxury. Natural textures, warm neutrals, and artfully placed antiques reflect the rhythm of the island outside, while high-tech comforts (like wellness facilities and a cinema room) ensure every moment is utterly indulgent.
For those craving wellness, the experience is deeply immersive. There's a heated pool, hammam, ice bath, yoga pavilion, and even an al fresco massage table tucked beneath fragrant pines. Every detail is designed to slow you down – and spoil you, quietly.
And when you feel like stepping out, you're only a short boat ride away from Cannes.
And while you could easily spend your whole stay within this Mediterranean Eden, a short stroll takes you to La Guérite, the neighbouring beachside restaurant known for its sun-soaked ambience, live music, and iconic seafood platters.
From sunrise yoga sessions to twilight dinners under fairy lights, Le Grand Jardin offers a retreat that feels both cinematic and sacred – where luxury isn't loud, and time seems to stretch a little longer.
