It’s not every day that a piece of royal history goes up for sale on the sun-soaked Riviera. But Grace Kelly’s beloved hideaway—her legendary haven of peace—has just hit the market, offering a heady blend of luxury, memory, and Mediterranean charm that’s hard to match. Ready for a tour? Just try to resist falling under its spell (spoiler: Grace Kelly couldn’t!).
A Villa Steeped in Royal Legacy
Nestled between Nice and Monaco, in the heart of the Côte d’Azur, stands a villa anything but ordinary: Les Moulins du Villars. This magnificent property, once an old olive oil mill, wears its history proudly and has been painstakingly renovated to combine opulence with timeless allure. The prestigious Sotheby’s International Realty has now listed it for €11.5 million—a price that does justice to its exceptional character and to the illustrious princess who once called it her private refuge.
But the story of this villa and Grace Kelly (yes, the Grace Kelly) is written in the warm stones of its walls. In 1980, on an official visit accompanied by her daughter, Princess Grace discovered the property. It didn’t take long for the place to cast its spell: she instantly fell in love and struck up a lasting friendship with the owners. The following year, she returned for a solo holiday, proclaiming the villa her true « haven of peace » and weaving special ties with the resident family. Her fondness ran so deep that she gifted the owners several presents, among them two statues that still stand gracefully on the grounds.
An Idyllic Setting on the Côte d’Azur
The estate is set in Gilette, a picturesque village tucked between Nice and Monaco, and boasts scenery you’d expect from a Hollywood dream sequence. Stretching over 2.1 hectares, the south-facing domain forms a natural amphitheater hugged by a protected nature reserve. For nature lovers, it’s a slice of paradise: streams meander around the property, while the air is perfumed with olive trees, citrus, and cypress. Should you need more convincing, there are stunning panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness at every turn.
Perched at an altitude of 470 meters, the main villa benefits from not one, not five, but sixteen terraces—ideal for morning coffee, sunset Aperol, or, let’s be honest, losing count of which terrace you started on. The pure water supply comes directly from the nearby Source du Villars, a mountain stream, ensuring luxury with a dash of untamed freshness.
Architectural Brilliance and Modern Comforts
Decades of careful renovations have transformed the old mill into an exceptional home. In the 1990s, stonecutters fully rebuilt the villa’s walls, restoring the network of canals fed by mountain streams. More recently, architects from Cap Ferrat gave the property its current stylish flair, blending modernity with a deep respect for its heritage. Ancient mill artifacts are displayed both indoors and out, a nod to the villa’s layered past.
Inside, there’s no shortage of sumptuous space and amenities:
- The main villa spans 540 square meters across four floors, all accessible via elevator—no unnecessary stair-stepping here.
- Two living rooms, two kitchens (because, why not?), a wine cellar, and seven bedrooms, each with its own private bath.
- There’s a study, a dedicated cinema room, a laundry area, and annexes equipped for every eventuality.
- The fun continues with a party room, a fully appointed gym, and an infinity pool for those Riviera afternoons.
- If you prefer a dramatic entrance or just want to skip the traffic on the A8, a helicopter landing pad awaits.
A Lasting Refuge for Modern Times
Les Moulins du Villars isn’t just another luxury property—it’s a place where history meets the present, where every stone and stream whispers stories of past grandeur and serenity. The spirit of Grace Kelly lingers in its peaceful gardens and sun-drenched terraces, making this villa a standout for discerning buyers seeking a true sanctuary on the Côte d’Azur.
If you’re searching for a timeless home where the scent of cypress and a royal legacy mingle in the Mediterranean breeze, this villa might be your chance to write the next chapter of its remarkable story. In the meantime, keep daydreaming—the Côte d’Azur has rarely looked so inviting, or felt so full of possibility.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
