Cannes Belle Rive Villa, an Exceptional Historic Property on the Seafront

Property Description

In a privileged setting between Cannes and La Croix-des-Gardes, just steps from the beaches, Villa Belle Rive embodies the elegance of the Belle Époque. Built in 1863 by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc for Henri Courmont, director of the Fine Arts under Napoleon III, this iconic residence was later acquired by François-Henri Lavanchy-Clarke, a pioneer of cinema and representative of the Lumière brothers in Switzerland. Expanded in 1910 by Cannes architect James Warnery, it today retains its authenticity: high ceilings, wide openings, majestic volumes and a unique atmosphere. The main villa offers generous reception spaces, a bright 47 m2 living room, a dining room, a kitchen with a scullery, as well as numerous bedrooms spread over the floors, including several suites with terraces and sea views. The garden level provides nearly 166 m2 of additional space, suitable for a gym, wellness area, cellar or other uses. The property also includes an independent caretaker’s house, former stables with an apartment, a decorative water tower, a large conservatory and several annexes, bringing the total built area to about 826 m2. Outside, the landscaped park of about 4,000 m2, decorated with palm trees and fruit trees, features a renovated 15 x 8-meter pool with Bavarian stone decks. From the garden, a direct access leads to the beach in moments, a rare privilege on the Cannes market. An exceptional heritage property, a witness to the history of the French Riviera, destined for lovers of unique places, character and Mediterranean living.