Peruse this star-studded lineup of celebrity homes in Cote D’Azur, France, home to some of the world’s most rich and famous. In this hotspot, you’ll find the uber-wealthy and top-of-the-line A-listers. Miami doesn’t even come close with its “Millionaire’s Row.”
Elton John’s Villa in Nice, France
It’s no secret that Elton John has a discerning taste for the finer things in life. In 2016, he scooped up a charming 1920’s estate in Nice, France, which he dubs as his “summer house.”
The property is perched high atop the province’s mountainside, leaving room for breathtaking views of the Alps and bay area. John had the home, which was originally pink in color, repainted a sunshine-yellow that better compliments the lush landscapes and white balconies along the structure. Click here for his home profile on Velvet Ropes.
Bono’s Estate in Eze-Sur-Mer, France (U2 Singer’s French Riviera Home)
U2’s front liner, Bono, made the French Riviera his holiday play yard back in 1993. It’s speculated that he paid roughly €3.8 million for this pad. Since then, he has regularly entertained the likes of Cindy Crawford, George Clooney, and many other A-listers at this home. The property offers direct access to the water and the white sandy beach nearby, making it the perfect place to soak in the sun or have a swim.
This gorgeous peach-colored villa features exotic gardens, several large terraces that overlook the Mediterranean sea, and a pool & spa. In addition to being the ultimate relaxation space for Bono and crew, the singer also has a recording studio in the basement just in case he and his fellow band mates decide to jam out and work on their next big album. Click here for his home profile on Velvet Ropes.
The Chateau Miraval (Brad and Angelina)
The separation of power-couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie left many speculating whether the pair would list their 17th century chateau on the French Riviera. As of 2019, however, it seems the exes still continue to produce wines from the estate’s winding vineyards, even announcing the release of a second rosé in 2018. They purchased the property in 2012 for a whopping €60 million. Looking at the stunning French architecture as well as the sprawling nearby vineyards, it’s easy to see how the pair became enchanted by such a stunning home.
The Chateau boasts 35 rooms on a massive 1,200-acre property. Some notable features include a private lake, a moat (yes, an actual moat), a swimming pool, a movie theater, and a helicopter pad.
Paul Allen’s Villa Maryland
Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen has an impressive portfolio of real estate holdings. Among his swanky purchases is a lavish hilltop mansion known as The Villa Maryland in Côte d’Azur. The Real Deal reports that a team of 12 is recruited to maintain the property year round.
The Florentine villa is surrounded by beautiful lush greenery that blend together perfectly to create one incredibly breath-taking property. Built in 1904 by Arthur Wilson, a good friend of King Edward VII, the estate has been host to some of the most renowned performers and respected figures of all time.
Bill Gates’ House in Nice, Alpes-Maritimes (France)
Rumors have been swirling for years that one of the world’s most expensive homes, The Villa Léopolda, was sold to one of the world’s wealthiest, Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates. According to media outlet Independent, there has been no evidence found supporting this purchase, but anonymity might have played a role in its hush-hush ownership. In 2008, it’s said that the estate was sold to an anonymous Russian billionaire for €200 million. The present incarnation of the home was constructed from 1929 to 1931 by Ogden Codman Jr, an American architect. Given the incredibly rich history of the villa, it is currently registered as a French monument.
Once owned by king Leopold II of Belgium, the villa features gardens that span 20 acres, lots of beautiful cypress trees that surround the property, and a massive swimming pool. The interior of the estate spans to a staggering 25,000 square feet of living space and boasts 11-bedrooms and 14-bathrooms.
Top French Celebrities That Call the French Riviera Home
Among these celebrity neighbors, you can also find a staggering list of local celebs that choose to stay close to home. Acclaimed French writer Aldous Huxley and French freediving champion Aurore Asso, for example, have called the province their stomping ground for several years. So what’s the draw? Think seclusion, privacy, and the warm and sunny breezes of the Mediterranean Sea.
Home of the Creatives
You will find that many of the current and former residents of Côte d’Azur have a very creative streak, including historical figures, such as Pablo Picasso, Robert Louis Stevenson, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and countless others.
Make Your Bucket List
If you’re a jet-setting international traveler who would love to embark on a journey to see celebrity homes up close and personal, these are some of the top picks for gawking at the province’s historical architectural marvels. Bare in mind that many celebrity homes feature state-of-the-art security teams, so be sure to play it safe by observing at a distance.
Sources
Architectural Digest: Elton John’s Lavish Residences in London and Nice
The Nicolas Pisani & Associates Group French Riviera Stars & Homes: Bono & U2, Eze-Sur-Mer
The Huffington Post: Brad Pitt And Angelina Jolie Are Selling Their French Estate Château Miraval
The Real Deal: Check Out The Incredible Real Estate Portfolio Of Microsoft Billionaire Paul Allen
Independent: Villa In Nice Is World’s Most Expensive House