Super Prime Property: True Waterfront Living on the French Riviera
A rare opportunity to own direct access to the Mediterranean on the Cap d’Antibes
True waterfront villas on the French Riviera are among the rarest residential assets in Europe. In prime coastal locations such as the Cap d’Antibes, strict shoreline protection laws and decades of limited supply mean that properties offering direct access to the sea are now virtually impossible to replicate.
Unlike “sea view” homes, true waterfront residences sit directly on the Mediterranean’s edge — where the water becomes an extension of the property itself. These homes are typically held for generations and seldom come to market, making each opportunity notable in its own right.
What Makes “Pieds Dans l’Eau” So Rare?
The French Riviera’s most prestigious coastline is now tightly protected. Modern planning regulations strictly limit new construction near the shoreline, particularly for private residences. As a result, the number of villas offering direct, private access to the sea is extremely limited — and shrinking with time.
In the Cap d’Antibes, one of the Riviera’s most discreet and exclusive peninsulas, true waterfront properties are especially scarce. The area’s combination of privacy, proximity to Monaco, Nice and Cannes, and natural beauty has made it a long-established favourite among international buyers seeking both discretion and long-term value.
Properties of this calibre are not simply homes — they are legacy assets.
Waterfront Living on the Cap d’Antibes
Owning a true waterfront villa offers a lifestyle that cannot be recreated elsewhere. Direct access to the sea allows residents to swim, paddle board or just head out for a morning walk down the shoreline, all while enjoying a level of privacy rarely found on the French Riviera.
The Cap d’Antibes remains notably low-key compared to neighbouring hotspots, attracting buyers who value tranquillity over visibility. Despite this sense of seclusion, the peninsula is perfectly suited for both permanent residence and seasonal living.
Situated between the old town of Antibes and Juan les Pins on the Côte d’Azur lies the Cap d’Antibes, a protected peninsula that has become synonymous with privacy, prestige, and old-world Riviera glamour, welcome to Super Prime Property territory.
Unlike much of the urbanised coastline, the Cap d’Antibes retains a low-density landscape of expansive villas and estates, verdant gardens, and delightful coves. The result? A market where super prime property dominates — and where true waterfront homes are among the most treasured in France.
The peninsula’s southern shore — often referred to as the Bay of Billionaires — is particularly emblematic of this super prime property segment. Here, the Mediterranean meets manicured lawns, and prized plots with direct sea access appear only sporadically on the market, these are amongst the most valuable estates in the world.
An Exceptional Waterfront Villa
This outstanding villa for sale in Cap d’Antibes exemplifies the very best of true waterfront living. Set directly on the Mediterranean, the property enjoys uninterrupted sea views and private access to the water, a defining feature that places it firmly within the super-prime category.
Designed to maximise its exceptional setting, the villa offers generous living spaces that open seamlessly onto terraces overlooking the sea. The layout prioritises light, privacy, and a constant connection with the surrounding environment, while mature landscaping enhances the sense of exclusivity.
Every aspect of the property reflects its unique position — from its orientation and outdoor living areas to the rare privilege of stepping directly from the garden into the Mediterranean.
- Location: Cap d’Antibes — one of the most desired addresses on the Riviera
- Style: Belle Époque villa by renowned French architect Emile Vaudremer
- Interior: 466 m² of refined living space
- Outside: Manicured gardens, private pool, parking, 300m2 of terraces including master suite terrace with jacuzzi
- Beach Access: Directly on the water with private access to a sandy beach
- Views: Uninterrupted panoramas across the bay toward Antibes, Nice, and the Alps
- Setting: Within walking distance to beaches, the old town, restaurants, and port life.
Built in the early 1900s and meticulously restored to the highest standards, this home is not just a residence — it’s a corner of Riviera history. Its proportions, architectural lineage, and literally waterfront position elevate it above most high-end coastal homes.
This is a true “pieds dans l’eau” property, situated right on the waters edge, with direct access to a sandy beach. It lies within easy walking distance to a port, public beaches, shops and restaurants, as well as the old town of Antibes. From most rooms there are uninterrupted sea views across the bay to Antibes, Nice, Monaco and as far as Italy with the breathtaking snow capped Alps behind.
Discover more about this home
What makes Villa Balzac particularly extraordinary — and almost mythically rare — is that properties of this calibre come to market perhaps once in a generation. A home with such provenance, direct sea access, and commanding views on Cap d’Antibes is a trophy asset in the literal sense. Discover more about this home here
A Long-Term Investment in Rarity
Super-prime waterfront properties on the French Riviera have historically demonstrated strong long-term resilience. Their value is underpinned not only by location, but by absolute scarcity — a factor that continues to drive demand among international buyers.
As regulations further restrict coastal development, existing true waterfront villas become increasingly irreplaceable. For discerning purchasers, this combination of lifestyle, privacy, and long-term value makes properties of this nature particularly compelling.
Discover More
Opportunities to acquire a true waterfront villa in Cap d’Antibes are exceptionally limited.
To discover the full details of this remarkable property, including its layout, features, and private viewing arrangements, please follow the link below or contact Home Hunts directly for further information.
Private enquiries are welcomed – Contact Tim Swannie for more information.
Home Hunts are here to help you to find your super prime property around France, Spain, Monaco or Switzerland. If you would like to speak to one of the team to discuss your needs or just to have a chat about the market, you can call us on +33 970 44 66 43 or send us a mail to info@home-hunts.com. If you just want to browse through thousands of beautiful French homes, visit our website at www.home-hunts.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram. or continue to follow this page
