Cannes Villa Belle Rive, an Exceptional Historic Beachfront Property

Property Description

In the heart of a privileged environment between Cannes and Croix-des-Gardes, just a few steps from the beaches, Villa Belle Rive embodies the elegance and refinement of the Belle Époque. Built in 1863 for Henri Courmont, director of Fine Arts under Napoleon Iii, by the renowned architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, this iconic residence was later acquired by François-Henri Lavanchy-Clarke, a pioneer of cinema and the first representative of the Lumière brothers in Switzerland. In 1910, he entrusted its expansion to the Cannes architect James Warnery, giving it the majestic dimensions we admire today. Perfectly preserved, the property has retained all the authenticity and charm of its era: high ceilings, vast openings, omnipresent light and a unique atmosphere where history blends with the Mediterranean way of life. The main villa boasts generous reception rooms. The ground floor opens onto an elegant entrance hall leading to a light-filled 47 sq m reception room. To the east, an office, a bathroom, a toilet, and a bedroom complete this space. To the west, a dining room, a kitchen, and a pantry provide ideal layout for entertaining. The first floor houses five large bedrooms, including four suites. Four of them have direct access to terraces offering magnificent sea views. The second floor comprises five additional bedrooms, a shower room, and a toilet. Currently operating as a bed and breakfast, this level offers numerous possibilities for development. The garden level offers nearly 166 m2 of additional space that could accommodate a gym, a wellness area with a sauna, a wine cellar, archives, or any other activity. Today, it is set up as a training center. The property also includes a separate caretaker's house consisting of three bedrooms, a living room with open kitchen and a private patio complete with a pizza oven. The former stables retain three horse stalls, a carriage house, and a laundry room. Upstairs, a pleasant two-room apartment completes the property. A decorative water tower, a large greenhouse and a large garden shed bring the total built area to approximately 826 m2. Outside, the meticulously maintained landscaped park of approximately 4,000 m2 is adorned with majestic palm trees and fruit trees. A recently renovated 15 x 8 meter swimming pool with Bavarian stone decking blends harmoniously into this verdant setting. Direct access from the garden allows you to reach the beach in a few moments, a rare privilege in the Cannes market. An exceptional heritage property, a witness to the history of the French Riviera, intended for lovers of characterful residences and unique places.