In the heart of an exceptional archipelago, contemporary art takes center stage at the Fondation Carmignac in Porquerolles.
In this authentic Provencal mas, businessman and art lover Edouard Carmignac decided to pool his collections of modern art.. Villa Carmignacopened in June 2018, features 2,000m² of underground exhibition space and extends over 15 hectares of gardens where artistic creations blend and harmonize with the natural environment of the Parc National de Port-Cros.
During the day, the Fondation Carmignac transforms itself to host prestigious events after dark. Allow yourself a moment to feel and experience the emotions during an open-air cinema or one of the evenings at the Porquerolles Jazz Festival, then return to your yacht. If you’ve landed in Porquerolles by helicopter, you can still visit Mas du Langoustier after this timeless day out. With such a find and such intense emotion, the evening promises to be exquisite.
In practical terms, the Villa Carmignac is open from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm and Thursdays until 9pm.
A variation on Saint-Paul-de-Vence: the Maeght Foundation
The result of the relationship and complicity between artistic representatives Marguerite and Aimé Maeght and leading artistic figures, the
Maeght Foundation
was born. Once again, creations are magnified both indoors and out, thanks to the azure clarity so coveted by renowned artists. Founded in 1964, the Maeght Foundation is recognized worldwide for its exhibitions.
To fully appreciate the richness of this magical place, you can organize a private tour or reception. You can easily dazzle 20 to 450 guests.
A detour is a must for art lovers visiting the Côte d’Azur. To get there, rent your luxury car with Excellence. This mythical place is a great alibi for a trip in a convertible or supercar. The Maeght Foundation and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are less than an hour’s drive from Cannes and Monaco. If you’re staying in Saint-Tropez, take a helicopter to Nice airport and a driver will take you to your destination.
In practical terms, the Maeght Foundation is open all year round, every day from 10am to 7pm in July and August, and from 10am to 6pm the rest of the year.
Immerse yourself in the Belle Époque period on the Côte d’Azur with a visit to the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild was built in 1912 by the famous eponymous baroness, and this splendid Italian Renaissance residence is one of the region’s most romantic spots. Now a museum, the villa lives in harmony with its nine enchanting gardens, perfect for a trip back in time to enjoy with your partner or family for an afternoon or evening.
The place is brimming with intimate little nooks and crannies that add to its magic, such as the kiosks, pergolas, ponds and waterfalls that make up this enchanting and slightly nostalgic setting, giving it a timeless charm.
Better still, enjoy an exceptional experience with lunch on the grass in the French garden. This upscale picnic will enchant you and immerse you in the French art de vivre of yesteryear. And let’s not forget to mention the evenings, Mondays and Tuesdays in July and August, when the gardens sparkle under hundreds of candles set up along the paths and ponds of the Jardin à la Française, magnifying the setting with musicalities, concerts, ballets by two dancers from the Ballet de Nice, sparkling fountains, a champagne bar and meals under the sign of love. All in all, an enchanted interlude for an unforgettable stay on the Côte d’ Azur.
But what’s the best time to visit this jewel? The villa is open 365 days a year, with the following opening hours:
February 1 to October 31: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and until 7 p.m. in July and August.
November to January inclusive: weekdays from 2pm to 6pm, and weekends and school vacations from 10am to 6pm.
