Tourism PACA / South

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat: what to see?

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is one of the most beautiful places to visit along the French Riviera. It is a favorite vacation spot for the wealthy, as evidenced by the many yachts cruising off the coast and the beautifully painted villas that make up this subtly flower-filled town. An unmissable stop less than an hour from Nice.

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What to see in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?

 

Situated on a verdant peninsula, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an iconic destination on the Côte d'Azur. Once a fishing hamlet, it became a popular spot for European aristocracy and then celebrities. Among its treasures,the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild stands out: built in the early 20th century by Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild, this Italian Renaissance-style residence houses an exceptional art collection and nine themed gardens.

 

The Villa Rothschild, its architecture and breathtaking view / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : CAHKT via depositphotos.

The Villa Rothschild, its architecture and breathtaking view / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : CAHKT via depositphotos.

 

The Saint-Hospice chapel, erected in the 17th century, is a place of pilgrimage, dominated by an impressive statue of the Virgin. The whole town is studded with beautiful villas, all different, and is very flowery. Photos to be made in perspective! 

 

Take a look at the details of the villas you are about to discover /.Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Jérôme Prod'homme

Take a look at the details of the villas you are about to discover /.Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.comJérôme Prod'homme

 

 

What are the most beautiful beaches in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat?

 

The commune offers several beaches with crystal-clear waters. The west-facing Passable beach is ideal for admiring the sunset. The more discreet plages des Fosses and des Fossettes seduce with their calm and clear water.The Cros deï Pin beach, close to the port, is perfect for families with children. These beaches, mainly made of pebbles, retain a wild charm while remaining accessible.

 

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has lovely beaches and an easy view of the deep blue sea / Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com :  Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has lovely beaches and an easy view of the deep blue sea / Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com :  Jérôme PROD'HOMME (c)

 

 

Must-see walk: the coastal path in Saint Jean Cap Ferrat

 

The coastal path, or "chemin des douaniers", is one of the most beautiful walks on the Côte d'Azur. It runs along the cliffs and creeks of the peninsula for almost 7 km (2H30 walk), between Mediterranean vegetation and spectacular sea views. Easily walkable, it allows you to discover unspoilt spots, secret little beaches, and offers magnificent views of the Alpes-Maritimes and the Mediterranean. In places, you can literally walk between the pines and the waves.A true bath of nature and light by the sea

 

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a ... Cap. So we can take a tour / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com : Depositphotos CezaryWojtkowski

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat is a ... Cap. So we can take a tour / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com Depositphotos CezaryWojtkowski

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Port and yachts: an air of Riviera chic

 

The Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat marina is one of the most elegant on the coast. You'll come across classic sailing boats, but above allexceptional yachts from all over the world. This ballet of luxury is not just a setting: it's also an atmosphere, enlivened by refined restaurants, designer boutiques and cafés with sea views.The port sometimes hosts nautical or artistic events. This is also where the social heart of the peninsula beats, between discreet refinement and Italian glamour.

 

Yachts off the port of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat /Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: Jérôme Prod'homme

Yachts off the port of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat /Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: Jérôme Prod'homme

 

 

What hiking trails are there to discover?

 

In addition to the coastal path,the Maurice Rouvier promenade links Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat to Beaulieu-sur-Mer. It passes through seaside gardens, skirting the most beautiful villas and inviting a peaceful stroll between umbrella pines and turquoise waters. The circuit to pointe Saint-Hospice, meanwhile, offers a wilder atmosphere, punctuated by history with the Belgian military cemetery and historic chapel. Each itinerary reveals a different face of the peninsula.

 

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat seen from the corniche / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat seen from the corniche / Photo chosen by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos

 

 

How to get to Saint Jean Cap Ferrat from Nice?

 

  1. By car: Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is easily accessible from Nice (10 km) or Monaco (15 km). By car, follow the D125 from Villefranche-sur-Mer or Beaulieu-sur-Mer; parking is available in the town center and near the beaches.
  2. By train: go to Beaulieu-sur-Mer station, served by the TER Marseille-Vintimille line, then continue on foot (20 min) or by bus (line 15 of the Lignes d'Azur network).
  3. By plane: Nice Côte d'Azur airport is the closest, with shuttles and cabs available. Bus line 15 also makes reaching the cape from Nice or Monaco easy and inexpensive.
Jérôme de France

Jérôme de France

Jérôme is “Monsieur de France”, the author of this site. 
An author, he has written numerous columns and features for various media on heritage, tourism and gastronomy. Passionate about history and beautiful sites, he shares with you his tips for traveling in France and preparing your stay by knowing what you'll be able to see. A gourmet, he gives you recipes for France's great and small culinary specialties. Discover also a part of French culture. 

Jérôme de France

Jérôme de France

Jérôme is “Monsieur de France”, the author of this site. 
An author, he has written numerous columns and features for various media on heritage, tourism and gastronomy. Passionate about history and beautiful sites, he shares with you his tips for traveling in France and preparing your stay by knowing what you'll be able to see. A gourmet, he gives you recipes for France's great and small culinary specialties. Discover also a part of French culture.