Magnificently Restored Historical Estate on Saint-Marguerite Island off Cannes, France

This estate is a rare triumph: a hidden sanctuary on the Cote d’Azur that’s eco-friendly, era-defining and rooted in the region’s colourful history. It’s the sole private property on the island of Sainte Marguerite and has been designed to kick all senses into action. Picture sweet-smelling citrus trees, tranquil and trickling natural pools and a 14,000m2 botanic garden that calls for slow strolls in the Mediterranean heat.

It’s all watched over by an old fortress and offers complete privacy from the outside world for a large group, despite being moments from the flashing lights of Cannes.

Arrive by boat to this 13th-century, private walled estate and enter a haven of your own. You will be in good company. Sainte Marguerite has long allured the world’s elite, with previous owners including Louis XIV and the 15th-century Dukes of Guise. Many believe the infamous Man in the Iron Mask, rumoured to be the brother of Louis XIV, was once held captive in the island’s fortress. Legend also has it that Napoleon once grazed his horses in the garden while cannonballs were prepared elsewhere on the island before being fired at passing ships.

Without hesitation, this is the most exclusive property in the South of France. Couple the history of not only Sainte Marguerite Island but the French Riviera, with the signature design, and the estate has more than one story to tell, with views that can’t help but make the heart happy.

There are 12 bedrooms across six separate buildings in the property: The Governor’s House, three cottages, a guest house, and the old fortress tower. Savour a moment in the sun-beaten days while exploring the garden and wine cellar. It has all been thoughtfully created with sustainable materials including rock flooring, white and grey marble and neutral beige and teak wood floors. Its clean-lined architecture is synonymous with the South of France, but the property’s significance runs much deeper than that.

You can reveal its medieval history as you host dinner for extended family and friends, and launch momentous parties that overlook an idyllic pool dotted with water lilies.

Wake up and smell the roses, strolling through an abundant garden to handpick ingredients for harvesting before each meal. Its sprawling fruit and vegetable beds are hemmed in with olive and lemon trees. Everything you need is on your doorstep, and it can all be prepared at a moment’s notice. Dine al-fresco on long tables adorned with roses and irises plucked from the gardens or tuck into citrusy cocktails at the sun-drenched outdoor bar.

Wellness

You might not notice it’s happening. Sink into a relaxed state of mind as soon as you arrive at the gates. It’s been designed to promote your wellbeing, from the elegant and airy rooms to the hot stone walkways that lead from the tranquil pools to the botanical garden. And, in true style, there’s also a hammam, sauna and various treatment rooms for you to prioritise your wellbeing.