VISIT - IN THE SECRET SANCTUARY OF LE GRAND JARDIN IN CANNES, ULTIMA COLLECTION'S ART DE VIVRE (France)
Hidden from view, on the enchanting island of Sainte-Marguerite, Le Grand Jardin reveals a suspended world, where every stone, every fragrance, every silence is a hymn to secret luxury according to Ultima Collection
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VISIT - IN THE SECRET SANCTUARY OF LE GRAND JARDIN IN CANNES, ULTIMA COLLECTION'S ART DE VIVRE (France)
Hidden from view, on the enchanting island of Sainte-Marguerite, Le Grand Jardin reveals a suspended world, where every stone, every fragrance, every silence is a hymn to secret luxury according to Ultima Collection
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Category: Europe - France - Exclusive experiences
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Article written by Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine on 2025-05-12
 The Ultima Collection property - Le Grand Jardin Cannes is a 14-hectare gem nestled on Sainte-Marguerite Island
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood / Ultima Collection
Our journey begins at the Cannes pier. As we step aboard, the hustle of daily life begins to fade. Within minutes of leaving the port, the city’s buzz gives way to the gentle breath of the sea.
Arriving at the Sainte-Marguerite jetty, we step into another world. A silent electric van awaits to take us to the far end of the island. The short ride, through preserved nature dotted with pines and eucalyptus trees, already hints at the rare privilege of discovering Le Grand Jardin.
Once the residence of the governors of Provence, this unique private estate has witnessed centuries of history, illustrious guests and enduring mystery. It lies just a few steps from the famous Fort Royal, once home to the enigmatic “Man in the Iron Mask”. Today, under the direction of Ultima Collection, the estate gracefully combines heritage with a contemporary vision of luxury. Lovingly restored, Le Grand Jardin is now far more than a villa. It is a Mediterranean sanctuary, a haven of silence and harmony reserved for just a handful of fortunate guests.
A charming first impression
The stone path leading to this 15th-century property winds between Mediterranean plants and contemporary sculptures by Grégory Bonnard, striking a contrast with the historic surroundings. Soon we are enveloped in the scent of jasmine, shaded by fig trees and bathed in light filtered through lush vegetation.
After passing through an ancient arch, the Governor's House reveals itself. This elegant Provençal manor opens its sky-blue shutters onto a botanical garden. It does not seek to impress but rather to enchant. Natural stone, old terracotta tiles and flourishing plants give the home a distinctly Mediterranean soul with subtle Italian influences, all reinterpreted by Ultima Collection in a resolutely modern spirit.
The art of hospitality, according to Ultima Collection
From the entrance, it is clear that nothing has been left to chance. The tour begins in the dining room, designed to host twelve guests in a refined yet convivial atmosphere. Here, stays are guided by an all-inclusive approach where every detail counts. A private chef creates custom menus to suit each guest’s desires, assisted by a discreet and attentive team.
The adjacent lounge displays a curated selection of contemporary artworks. Noble materials like marble, raw wood and linen are enhanced by a subtle signature scent that follows guests throughout the property. Furniture with clean lines, covered in natural-toned, soft fabrics such as raw linen, blond wood and limestone, reflects the craftsmanship behind this unique renovation. The space invites you to pause and disconnect.
The kitchen, designed as a true culinary studio, combines the charm of raw materials with the functionality of high-end equipment. It is a place for sharing, where the chef welcomes guests to explore Mediterranean flavours, pick aromatic herbs from the garden and taste wines from the nearby island.
Spaces crafted for privacy and contemplation
From the ground floor, a marble staircase leads to the main suite. At the landing, we stop before a koi-filled pond. This poetic touch invites contemplation, a central theme of any stay at Le Grand Jardin. The suite features a large walk-in wardrobe, a bright marble bathroom and, above all, a breathtaking view of the park and the sea.
The estate includes twelve suites spread across three cottages, a guest house, three poolside suites and a fortified tower. Everywhere, the same attention to detail prevails. Embroidered linen headboards, veined white marble bathrooms and handpicked decorative objects add to the charm.
From the main terrace, the magic is immediate. Below us, the Mediterranean sparkles as far as the eye can see. Facing us, the island of Saint-Honorat stands out clearly. The silver lines of Cistercian vineyards trace patterns against the deep blue sea. In the distance, the Estérel rocks glow red under the evening sun. This grand yet peaceful vista will linger long in the memory.
Our exploration continues through the estate, imagined as a private village nestled in a 1.4-hectare botanical garden. The estate’s tower catches our eye. Once a fortified structure, it has been transformed into a space for relaxation and entertainment. The game room on the ground floor adds a playful note to the freedom offered here. Upstairs, a suite under a six-metre-high ceiling reveals a panoramic terrace and a breathtaking view.
Experiences designed to delight the senses
A few steps through the garden bring us to the summer heart of the property: the pool area. The saltwater pool, heated and perfectly integrated into its natural surroundings, is flanked by wide, comfortable loungers and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Guests can enjoy open-air lunches, sip cocktails or host private evening events under the stars, all thoughtfully arranged by the Ultima team.
This haven of well-being continues at the wellness pavilion, surrounded by aromatic plants. Here, guests enjoy massages, customised treatments and yoga sessions facing the sea. A resident therapist ensures that each moment of relaxation aligns with a holistic approach, in harmony with the island’s rhythms.
To further enrich the experience, a private cinema room completes the estate. Intimate and comfortable, it features a popcorn bar and provides a timeless retreat for film lovers of all ages.
A philosophy of luxury rooted in discretion and nature
What remains with us is not just the luxury or prestige of the place, though both are undeniable, but a rare feeling. Here is a destination designed to embrace silence, space, the shadows of pine trees and the soft light of the Côte d’Azur. Le Grand Jardin is not merely a rental property. It is an immersive escape, a tribute to nature and the art of living, where guests savour the ultimate luxury of suspended time.
With Le Grand Jardin, Ultima Collection has reimagined the essence of luxury. Its philosophy is built on authenticity, sustainability and highly personalised service. The presence of a manager, private chef, discreet butler and responsive concierge ensures every wish is met, from a secluded beach picnic on Saint-Honorat to a yacht cruise along the French Riviera. This vision is also expressed through the estate’s environmental commitment, including energy autonomy, responsible water management and the use of local, recyclable materials.
This exceptional estate perfectly embodies the vision of Ultima Collection, a Swiss group founded in 2016. Each of its destinations reflects a new vision of ultra-luxurious hospitality. With properties in Gstaad, Crans-Montana, Megève, Courchevel, Geneva, Corfu and Cannes, the collection offers exclusive retreats where intimacy, design and tailored service are central. Ultima breaks with traditional luxury codes to create bespoke stays in extraordinary locations.
A lasting memory
As we prepare to leave this secret retreat, the sunset casts enchanting colours across the property, wrapping it in golden hues. Evening brings candlelit dinners under the stars, accompanied by the soft sound of waves. We leave the privileged guests to enjoy their time in peace, as we return to the sparkling lights of Cannes.
What remains in our memory is the enchanting interlude and heady fragrance of Le Grand Jardin, where the rare privilege of solitude is framed by a dreamlike setting. It is an island within an island, where luxury is measured by stillness, the beauty of simplicity and the feeling of being, just for a while, the guardian of a secret paradise.
 The Governor's House is the main building on the property
Photo credit © Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine
 The 15th-century property combines authentic and contemporary decorative elements
Photo credit © Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine
 Le Grand Jardin Cannes salle à manger
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 As for the main building's living room, it offers a delightful view of Le Grand Jardin’s exteriors
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 Here, as in traditional luxury hotels, every detail is designed to offer a haute couture experience
Photo credit © Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine
 Like every other suite, the tower suite offers premium comfort
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 The pool area is undoubtedly the most popular spot for guests during the high season
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 The place has an epic view of the tower, the Mediterranean, and the nearby Saint-Honorat Island
Photo credit © Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine
 Here, travellers can organize festive events or enjoy complete privacy in the only private estate on the island
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 The estate is a temple of serenity, offering guests a sense of wellness that can be felt at every moment and in every corner of the island
Photo credit © Vanessa Guerrier-Buisine
 Nature is omnipresent here, enhanced by the Mediterranean sun
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
 At night, Le Grand Jardin also offers a lively spectacle, where the lush vegetation takes on an enchanting appearance
Photo credit © Jacob Elwood
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