“Donizetti’s opera ‘La Favorite'” might seem an odd inspiration for a villa. Yet, here we stand before Villa Favorite in Cannes. Built around 1884 this villa whispers tales of ambassadors and maharajas. It embodies the rich history of the Côte d’Azur.
Villa Favorite was built for Maxime Outrey. He was a French ambassador to the United States and Japan. The name comes from Donizetti’s opera. It premiered in 1840.
Over the years, La Favorite changed hands. It even saw prestigious rental periods. Anna Thompson Dodge once leased it. She was the wealthy wife of an American car manufacturer. Later, Mr. Gruss-Gallieni acquired it. He was the son-in-law of Marshal Gallieni. He owned the neighboring Villa Wenden. It was later renamed Le Rouve.
Gruss-Gallieni wanted to expand his estate. He bought La Favorite. He demolished the top floor. This act ensured his view of the sea remained unobstructed. Le Rouve is now luxury flats. It sits just above La Favorite.
Rumor has it, a secret tunnel connected La Favorite and Le Rouve. It was built to facilitate the owner’s rendezvous with his mistress. In the 1920s, the Maharadja of Pudikopta owned the villa. He divided his time between Paris and Cannes. After his death, his wife Molly sold La Favorite.
General Weygand became the owner in 1942. In 1953, Jacques Loup tried to rebuild the top floor. His request was denied.
In 2012, the current owner stepped in. He had a bold vision. He added a garden level by digging out the basement. The interior was completely renovated. Only the original façade was preserved. This colossal project took five years. It required an investment of around ten million euros.
Today, the main house boasts 794 square meters of living space. It includes elegant reception rooms. There are five en suite bedrooms. A wine cellar, a study, and a laundry room complete the picture. A guest house and a caretaker’s cottage add to the luxury.
Two terraces and a rooftop offer 559 square meters. Here, one can enjoy the Côte d’Azur climate. Over the last few years, La Favorite has hosted events. These events were for luxury brands during the Cannes Film Festival.
La Favorite sits on 3,103 square meters of grounds. A swimming pool and fountain adorn the landscape. This creates an oasis. Its location offers views of the Mediterranean. It is a jewel of the Côte d’Azur.
One of the major assets is easy access to the beach. Residents can stroll to the sandy beaches and the Croisette.
Villa La Favorite embodies the elegance of Cannes. It is a witness to the past. It offers modern comfort and luxury. La Favorite continues to dazzle all who discover it. A true hidden treasure.