Sanctuary For The Stars: Why Celebrities Prefer This Secluded Île When Holidaying in Cannes
Cannes’ Le Grand Jardin island estate is a peerless getaway for those looking for a lap of luxury sanctuary
Île Sainte-Marguerite, off the coast of Cannes, has been an insider destination for the world’s most jetset thanks to La Guérite, the ultimate high-end restaurant and beach club on the French Riviera that’s only accessible by boat. Celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Ciara and Russell Wilson, and the Beckhams are all regulars and you’re likely to be privy to a singalong with Elton John, followed by dancing on tables, as the sun sets at this exclusive spot.
But now this claim to fame has been trumped, because the best-kept secret on the car-free island is hidden amid the lush foliage further inland. What most visitors don’t realise is that this protected wildlife reserve is home to a fully staffed, 12-bedroom, 14,000sqm estate set amid a verdant botanical garden, that can be rented by the week in its entirety, for those who are used to ultimate comfort, paired with complete seclusion.
In-the-know guests who book this hidden sanctuary will be whisked to the Ultima Cannes Le Grand Jardin by yacht from the Cannes marina which is just 10 minutes away. Alternatively you could opt to fly to the island via helicopter – before being ushered by electric car (the villa owns the only ones that are allowed on the island) past the gates of the residence.
The property, aspects of which go back to the 13th century, is steeped in history too. It is said that the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask, rumoured to be King Louis XIV’s half-brother, was kept imprisoned on the island. Napoleon was said to have stayed in the watchtower that provides a focal point of the property – just one of seven buildings that dot the premises and provide state-of-the-art accommodation. Later on, Picasso was just one of many artists that drew their inspiration from these natural surroundings with crystalline water, rocky inlets and scented forests.
It’s clear that the staff on hand are used to catering to every whim. From curated trips to surrounding hotspots to lavish breakfasts by the pool after sunrise yoga sessions and impromptu entertaining at night, no request is too difficult to fulfil. There’s an in-house spa that has perfected the art of pampering, and remember to find time to explore British artist Jason deCaires Taylor’s underwater sculpture garden.
There’s a deep appreciation for sustainability at the estate – and refocussing on the heritage of the area – too. Herbs, citrus trees and vegetables have been painstakingly researched and the grounds re-planted to highlight indigenous varieties, with the gardeners happy to impart their knowledge to guests of all ages.
What’s remarkable about this island getaway however, is the sensitive manner in which its history has been preserved, highlighted and celebrated, while ensuring interiors are sumptuous yet chic, in keeping with the demands of the most discerning clients. There’s even a soft pillow for your feet so your first step out of bed continues the comfort.
How many places let you be king of the castle, and give you the run of a private island on the Cote d’Azur at the same time? Only one. And that’s what makes Le Grand Jardin the ultimate holiday home.
For more information visit lgj-cannes.com
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From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s May 2023 issue.
