The real Domaine de Rothschild

Opening hours, admission and details

With its unequalled outlook over the Bays of Villefranche and Beaulieu, Baroness Ephrussi de Rothschild's turn-of-the-century palazzo is one of the most stunning sights of the entire Riviera.

Modelled on the Villa Borghese, this listed building is a magnificent testament to taste and style. The house itself contains a remarkable collection of 18th-century furniture and paintings, including pen-and-inks by Fragonard as well as an astounding collection of Sėvres chinaware (audio guide and guided tours available). Look out, too, for the Singerie, a room dedicated to a display of human folly ... in the form of satirical monkeys!


picture (c) Culturespaces/C Recoura

Many of the villa's nine gardens, laid out and planted in the neo-classical style, are modelled on the formal gardens of Renaissance courts, while others, such as the Japanese Garden and the Rose Garden (a favourite of the Baroness), afford a more intimate or natural setting in which to relax, while listening to the splendid musical fountain.


picture (c) Culturespaces

Nice-based Nizzatravel (00 33 6 99 67 26 26) do a 59 euro package including pick up in Monaco, for a half-day trip to the Ephrussi and the neighbouring Villa Kerylos.

What's On

Every AUgust, Opera company Les Azuriales present ten days of stunning opera in the sumptuous surroundings of the villa. Read more about Opera Les Azuriales 2011 here.