Cote d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is considered as one of the world’s most exclusive locations. The region extends from Saint-Tropez on the west to the French-Italian border, including the Principality of Monaco.
Cote d’Azur has gained Its popularity among the rich and famous for combining luxury, a stunning natural landscape and complete privacy.
The wonderful location has also caught the attention of film-makers throughout time. Here are 6 movies filmed along the unforgettable coastline along with some of our stunning properties in the region.
1. To Catch A Thief (1955)
The stunning French Riviera was the setting for the famous Hitchcock film ‘To Catch A Thief’ with protagonists Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. Both Nice and Monte Carlo feature in its scene where Frances reaches the hotel accompanied by her mother. The thrilling car chase scene on the Grand Corniche also includes the towns of La Tubie and Eze on the coast.
2. The Transporter(2002)
Jason Statham action-packed series The Transporter got us all on the edge of our seats. Frank Martin, a driver who delivers packages, suddenly receives a package that moves and everything changes. The film’s locations included Los Angeles, Paris and several locations across the Cote d’Azur such as Nice and St Tropez in.
Property 1: Villa Canoubwest
Did you know our stunning luxurious villa is actually close to the filming location? This ONE Authentic Properties’ compelling 6-bedroom property, a grand Mediterranean masterpiece in an exclusive area of St Tropez, with direct access to the sea and 8,000 square metres of landscaped gardens. Perfect for filming.
3. Swimming Pool (2003)
A successful and controversial erotic thriller, Swimming Pool is the story of a writer who travels to the south of France seeking solitude and uncovering much more. The film premiered in the 2003 Cannes Film Festival and was well-received by both critics and the public.
4. Never Say Never Again (1983)
“Shaken, not stirred”. Sean Connery starred in the famous adaptation of Ian Fleming’s ‘Thunderball’, with other locations in the UK and the Bahamas. The cool-headed 007 fights his way through the small streets of Villefranche Sur Mer, Nice. The main antagonist, Maximillan Largo, shows off his yacht in the bay of Villefranche, presenting the vivid, captivating landscapes of Southern France.
Property 2: Bayview Villefranche Sur Mer
Bayview is an eagle’s nest built against a hillside, almost sculpted from the rock itself. With five en-suite bedrooms, two fully furnished gourmet kitchens, sundeck and 2,800 square metres of landscape gardens, this property exudes plenitude and luxury, ideal for filming.
5. Goldeneye (1995)
Another Bond classic on our list, Goldeneye was the first time Pierce Brosnan played the iconic 007. Its list of locations included London, St Petersburg, Switzerland and France. The scene with Bond racing with the dazzling and dangerous Xenia are set in the Alpes-Maritimes, as well as the casino scene set in the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
6. Absolutely Fabulous (2016)
This entertaining comedy starring Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley as Edina and Patsy, respectively. The setting shifts the urban scenery of London to the sunny and colourful Cote D’Azur. The beautiful views of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat add a calm setting to the antics on-screen.
Property 3: Mas De La Rube
Our luxury Villa ‘Mas de la rube’ is closely located to St-Jean-Cap Ferrat in the luxurios private province of Villefranche-sur-mer. This property features 5 bedrooms, an indoor swimming pool and direct access to the sea. Its jaw-dropping views and scenic, private location make it an ideal place for filming.
7. The Love Punch (2014)
Another one featuring the dashing Pearce Brosnan and Emma Thompson, casting away his action-packed 007 for a more civil romantic comedy. After having his company and retirement snatched away, the pair decide to travel to France to steal a diamond as payback. The beautiful sights of Bijou Plage beach club, Cannes are present during the gatecrashing scene as well as the Cap d’Antibes, a traditional town overlooking Port Vauban, famous for its luxury yachts.
Extra…
Riviera (2017)
Sky’s TV drama series ‘Riviera’ is filmed and set on the luxurious Cote D’azur. The series follows the life of a rich and powerful banker and his wife, who both lead a remarkably lavish lifestyle and are linked to the underworld. Notable places seen are Nice bay and Sablettes beach.