Cap d'Antibes, French Riviera

The launch of a Riviera legend

What a history! It all began with a Frenchman’s dream, a retreat for creative spirits on the glorious ‘Cap’. And they came, casual Picasso, reclusive Chagall and Scott Fitzgerald, screen goddesses and Cannes directors. They revelled in the carefree elegance and inspirational beauty.

The most fashionable 150 years on the Riviera

The heavenly setting above the rocks has captivated all at first sight. When Le Figaro’s founder, Auguste De Villemessant, first set eyes on ‘Le Cap’, he envisaged Villa Soleil, a place of inspiration for writers. Dashing Russian aristocrats Paul de Fersen, and then Alexis de Plestcheyeff, eventually brought his idea to life, and in 1870 Grand Hotel du Cap began her elegant history. It was visionary hotelier, Antoine Sella, who established a halcyon retreat for creative spirits and grand romantic encounters, the Riviera legend was born.