The Provençal Bastide of Marais and Cocteau: A Historic Masterpiece and Unparalleled Luxury

The Côte d'Azur, with its sunny landscapes and rich cultural history, has long been a haven for artists and creatives. It is here, in the hinterlands of Cannes, that an exceptional Provençal bastide, once the residence of two French legends—Jean Marais and Jean Cocteau—stands. This historic home, now listed by Côte d'Azur Sotheby's International Realty, embodies the perfect marriage of Mediterranean living and discreet luxury. Today, this property offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history and artistic heritage on the French Riviera, as highlighted by AD Magazine.

A Jewel in the Cannes Hinterlands Spanning 15,000 sqm

Nestled at the heart of a vast 15,000 sqm estate, the bastide represents a true haven of peace. The estate is richly adorned with majestic cypress trees and ancient olive trees, timeless and evocative symbols of the Provençal region. As one strolls through this landscaped park, a saltwater pool emerges, the true gem of the property, bordered by Corsican river stones of rare beauty. These stones, carefully selected for their unique character and natural texture, add a touch of luxury and authenticity to this aquatic space.

This property, recently put on the market by Côte d'Azur Sotheby's International Realty, offers an idyllic living environment, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. The estate is an ideal refuge for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility, while still providing easy and quick access to modern amenities. Indeed, it is located just 30 minutes from the shimmering beaches of Cannes, renowned for their glamour and vibrancy, and from Nice International Airport, which offers convenient connections to major global destinations.

This privileged location allows one to fully enjoy the charms of the Côte d'Azur while benefiting from the tranquility of a countryside property, offering the best of both worlds. It is a place where time seems to stand still, inviting relaxation and contemplation, while also serving as an ideal base for exploring the cultural and natural treasures of the region.

The Legacy of Jean Marais and Jean Cocteau

Jean Marais, an actor, director, painter, sculptor, and potter, and Jean Cocteau, a writer, filmmaker, and poet, both left an indelible mark on the French arts scene. Their meeting in 1937 marked the beginning of a passionate love story and a fruitful artistic collaboration. The bastide, named "La Muse d'Orphée" in homage to Cocteau's film Orphée, is a testament to their love of the arts and beauty.

The architecture of the house reflects the simple yet sophisticated elegance that Marais and Cocteau appreciated. The main residence includes a master bedroom, a living room, a dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, and three additional guest bedrooms. A guest pavilion, located by the pool, offers three more bedrooms, perfect for hosting visitors in a luxurious setting. The entrance door, crafted by the art blacksmith Jean Jacques Tosello, is one example of the attention to detail and the owners' love for art and design.

A Bastide Hosting Icons of the Era

The bastide was more than just a home for Jean Marais and Jean Cocteau; it was also a hub of artistic and cultural life of the time. This exceptional place hosted numerous iconic figures, becoming a true crossroads of influences and creativity. Among the prestigious guests who passed through its doors was Gabrielle Chanel, the fashion icon and style visionary, who valued Marais's curiosity and frankness.

Pablo Picasso, the genius of Cubism, was also a regular visitor, bringing with him an unparalleled creative energy. Pierre Cardin, another fashion titan, was part of this exclusive circle, enhancing the property's cultural aura. These personalities, and many others, contributed to making this home a unique meeting place where creative minds gathered to share ideas and inspirations.

Sotheby's International Realty France Monaco: Excellence in Luxury Real Estate is globally recognized for its unmatched expertise in luxury real estate. Whether buying or selling a prestigious property, such as this Provençal bastide, the agency offers a bespoke service tailored to the specific needs of its clients.

The services offered include luxury real estate appraisals, high-end property management, and advice on purchasing prestigious real estate. For properties like this bastide, Sotheby's International Realty also offers post-sale services and insurance for non-resident owners, ensuring total peace of mind for investors.

An Unparalleled Investment in Luxury Real Estate

Acquiring a property like the bastide of Jean Marais and Jean Cocteau is more than just owning a house; it's investing in a piece of French history and culture.

This Provençal bastide is a true icon of luxury real estate, representing a refined lifestyle and a deep connection with the artistic history of the Côte d'Azur. Whether for a primary residence, a secondary home, or a rental investment, this property is a rare and precious opportunity.

For more information on this property or to explore other options, contact Côte d'Azur Sotheby's International Realty. Their team of experts is ready to assist you at every step of your real estate journey, ensuring exceptional service and an unparalleled experience in the world of luxury real estate.

Contact Frederic Barth, CEO of Côte d'Azur Sotheby's International Realty, to schedule a visit.