(Théoule-sur-Mer) March 18, 2024 – Château de Théoule is the latest opening from France-based Millésime Collection, whose deep-rooted mission is to elevate exceptional sites by transforming them while preserving their history. Staying true to the hospitality brand’s DNA, this iconic destination nestled on the breathtaking coastline of the Côte d’Azur, is just a swift 20-minute boat or car trip from Cannes and a 45-minute ride from Nice International Airport.
Open just in time for the warmer months, this exquisite 5-star hotel offers guests an unparalleled blend of luxury, serenity, and natural beauty, setting a new standard for opulence and relaxation on the French Riviera. A sanctuary where the azure waters of the Mediterranean meet the sky, Château de Théoule boasts its own private beach, La Plage Blanche, offering guests an exclusive escape to tranquility with the comfort and privacy that only this Maison can provide. Additionally, the property features a private boat slip, making it the perfect getaway for nautical enthusiasts who wish to explore the Riviera’s crystal-clear waters at their leisure.
RIVIERA RENAISSANCE
Originally a soap factory dating back to 1630, the Château de Théoule has lived many lives. At the end of the 19th century, the first renovation saw the light of day courtesy of Anguste Ferrouillat, child of an upper-class family of industrials from the silk business in Lyon. In 1910, Scottish Lord M. Harry Crowford put the finishing touches on the castle’s architecture, making it boldly Scottish with turrets and serrated ramparts. Converted to a private mansion, it was then left aside until it seduced the owners of Millésime, Alexandra and Philippe Monin, with its rich history, incredible potential and unparalleled location, such a balcony overlooking the Mediterranean.
Millésime worked alongside architecture firm ML Morand Legrix to update the original castle and build out the main villa. To carefully respect the 19th century structure and its inherent history within the region, the two collaborated with the Bâtiments de France architects on the restoration work. The Collection’s decorator Marie-Christine Mecoen chose to preserve much of the woodwork found in the castle, restoring and relocating it to align with the Château’s new design aesthetic.
MEDITERRANEAN BALCONY
The property is split into three distinct spaces that come together to create the Château de Théoule experience, celebrating the red rocks and vegetation of the surrounding Massif d’Estérel, as well as the fauna and flora of the Mediterranean’s shallow waters. The main Château and fishermen’s villa pay homage to the sun and the lush and sensory vegetation of the Riviera, whereas the more modern Art Deco villa, combined with the restaurant and pool area, subtly breaks down the hues of Théoule’s prized seabed.
The architecture and interiors have been meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking views from every vantage point. Each of the elegantly appointed rooms and suites provides a haven of comfort and luxury through the use of delicate textiles and materials, including custom linen curtains from Maison de Vacances, velvet vases and seating, as well as rattan light fixtures and hardwood floors throughout. A former antiques dealer, Marie-Christine Mecoen sourced a variety of antique furniture pieces for the property, as well as custom-designed a few items in collaboration with European artisans, such as Courant Sauvage, Jean Vier, Mis en Demeure and Labyrinthe interiors.
The 34 rooms and 10 suites, spanning 31 to 110 sqm and spread out across the original castle and villas, all boast sweeping views of the Bay of Cannes. Each room bears a color palette and name that harks back to the site’s history, medicinal herbs from the region with a special nod to head notes, heart notes and fragrance; a blue and violet room named IRIS, a red and pink room named FLEUR DE VALÉRIANE, a green room named FLEUR DE SAUGE. All come with KOS PARIS toiletries.
FEAST FOR THE SENSES
Open onto the gardens and blue waters of the Bay, Mareluna is the restaurant that celebrates the beloved flavors of the Mediterranean, from France to Italy, which seats up to 40 guests inside and 30 outside. Chef Francesco Fezza welcomes guests in the intimate and elegant setting of the Art Deco villa for a refined gustatory journey throughout the Riviera, emphasized by Mediterranean accents and a wine list offering only the finest vintages. This new concept boasts an Italian-inspired design with colorful mosaics, columns and a Julius Caesar bust as a statement piece.
PRIVATE BEACH
La Plage Blanche, open since 2022, is the elegant private beach nestled just below the Château’s suites. Fine sand, 90 pristine sunbeds, generous cuisine and the signature coastal atmosphere that can be found across the property, charms those seeking an intimate seaside experience.
The beach restaurant & lounge, which can seat up to 100, features items perfect for summer snacking, like a Pissaladière, various seafood platters, and a light Salade Niçoise, to fresh yet heartier dishes such as the Grilled Octopus with citrus fennel and chimichurri, or the local catch of the day. For dessert, the Baba Mimocello.
TOTAL WELLNESS
Millésime brings to Théoule its signature wellness concept, Éc(h)o Spa, in collaboration with the exclusive myBlend brand by Clarins, as well as luxury clean beauty brand KOS PARIS. Located in the heart of the Château facing the sea, the spa offering includes massages, skin and body treatments, as well as a relaxation area for guests to feel pampered and refreshed – featuring a sauna, steam room, along with one interior and two exterior Nordic baths.
WILD SURROUNDINGS
Surrounding the Château de Théoule is the stunning Massif de l’Estérel, a rugged mountain range that rises dramatically from the Mediterranean coastline, creating a striking contrast between the azure waters and the rich red hues of the rocks. Acclaimed for its dense vegetation, including cork oak and Aleppo pine forests, panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding countryside, l’Estérel provides a haven for diverse flora and fauna. Its picturesque hiking trails, rocky cliffs and hidden coves contribute to its allure, making it a perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and climbers alike.
EVENTS
From dawn to dusk, the Château de Théoule stands as the idyllic backdrop for an array of seaside events. The restaurant, private beach and villa rooftop, lend themselves perfectly for various occasions and celebrations.
For more information, visit www.chateau-de-theoule.com/en/
