Tender Moonlight villa exterior with terracotta terrace, Théoule-sur-Mer, French Riviera, France

The villa's front facade showcases a traditional Mediterranean arched entrance opening onto a terracotta terrace furnished with lounge chairs, set against the dramatic rocky mountains of Théoule-sur-Mer.

Tender Moonlight open-plan dining room with fireplace, Théoule-sur-Mer, French Riviera, France

The contemporary open-plan dining room features a natural wood table surrounded by Wishbone chairs, with a suspended fireplace and statement pendant lighting creating an elegant, light-filled space.

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Tender Moonlight

VILLA • THÉOULE-SUR-MER, FRENCH RIVIERA, FRANCE

6 Bedrooms • 4.5 Bathrooms • Sleeps 12

Private PoolBeach AccessSea ViewGymTerrace

Tender Moonlight is a six-bedroom villa in Théoule-sur-Mer with extraordinary provenance and unparalleled French Riviera views. Built in 1926 by architect Barry Dierks, this historic property once welcomed Pablo Picasso, Noël Coward and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor as guests. The villa sits on a rocky outcrop with direct beach access via a private path, offering sweeping Mediterranean panoramas from both the terrace and private pool. Contemporary interiors feature an open-plan living area with a striking suspended fireplace, whilst maintaining the villa's storied character. The property includes a fitness room, elevator access and accommodates twelve guests across six bedrooms. Located between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël, Tender Moonlight provides both seclusion and easy access to the French Riviera's cultural highlights, making it ideal for those seeking a retreat with genuine historical significance and natural beauty.

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Best time to visit

summer

18-28°Cjun · jul · aug

peak crowdpremium value

Summer provides optimal conditions for enjoying both the private pool and direct beach access, whilst the villa's elevated position captures cooling breezes that make the Mediterranean heat more comfortable.

peak crowdpremium value

Late spring through early autumn offers the most rewarding experience, with May to September providing optimal weather for both the pool and beach access. Summer brings peak Mediterranean conditions but also crowds in nearby Cannes. September stands out as an exceptional month, offering warm sea temperatures and fewer visitors whilst maintaining excellent weather for outdoor dining and swimming.

winter

dec · jan · feb

Mild and generally sunny with occasional cool spells and rainfall. Pleasant for exploring the region though swimming may be too cool for most guests.

8-15°C

low crowdexcellent value

Rates are at their lowest and availability is generally excellent. The heated indoor spaces and fireplace make the villa comfortable even on cooler days.

spring

mar · apr · may

Increasingly warm and sunny with mild evenings. May brings reliably pleasant weather perfect for outdoor dining and early swimming.

12-20°C

moderate crowdgood value

May is particularly popular due to the Film Festival in Cannes. Book well in advance for this period as demand increases significantly.

summer

Recommended

jun · jul · aug

Warm to hot with abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall. Perfect Mediterranean climate with comfortable sea temperatures for swimming.

18-28°C

peak crowdpremium value

Peak season requires booking 4-6 months ahead. July and August command the highest rates but offer the most reliable weather and warmest sea temperatures.

autumn

sep · oct · nov

September offers excellent conditions with warm seas and fewer crowds. October remains pleasant though cooler, whilst November can be unpredictable.

10-22°C

moderate crowdgood value

September is often considered the best month, offering peak season weather with more reasonable rates and availability. October can still be excellent but weather becomes less predictable.

Why we chose it

The guest register reads like a cultural hall of fame, with Pablo Picasso and Noël Coward among the luminaries who found inspiration within these walls. Unlike most Riviera villas where historical claims are often embellished, this property's documented heritage is verifiable and extraordinary. The villa's position on a rocky outcrop creates a sense of dramatic isolation whilst remaining easily accessible to Cannes, offering both privacy and convenience that most coastal properties cannot match.

Reviewed by The Chosen Stay · 2026

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01The Architecture

Built in 1926 by architect Barry Dierks, Tender Moonlight exemplifies interwar Mediterranean architecture at its finest. The villa sits dramatically on a rocky promontory, with its stone construction and traditional proportions harmonising with the natural coastal landscape. Dierks designed the property to maximise the spectacular sea views, positioning the main living spaces to capture the full sweep of the Mediterranean…

02The Interior

The interior marries contemporary comfort with the villa's distinguished heritage. The open-plan living area features a striking suspended fireplace that serves as a sculptural centrepiece, creating a modern focal point within the traditional Mediterranean framework. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with natural light and frame the sea views that extend to the horizon. The six bedrooms are thoughtfully positioned to…

03The Outdoor

The villa's outdoor spaces maximise its enviable coastal position. The swimming pool is positioned to capture unobstructed Mediterranean views, creating an infinity effect with the sea beyond. Multiple terraces at different levels provide varied outdoor living options, from intimate dining areas to expansive entertaining spaces. The property includes direct access to a secluded beach via a private rocky path, offering…

04The Location

Théoule-sur-Mer occupies one of the French Riviera's most dramatic coastal settings, positioned between the red rock formations of the Esterel Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The villa sits approximately 20 minutes from Cannes, placing guests within easy reach of the Croisette, Michelin-starred dining and the region's cultural attractions. The nearby Château de la Napoule provides historical interest, whilst the calanques…

05Ideal For

Perfect for culturally minded families and groups who appreciate genuine historical provenance alongside luxury amenities. The villa suits those seeking privacy and exclusivity whilst remaining within reach of the French Riviera's sophisticated dining and cultural offerings. The rocky coastal setting requires supervision for young children, making it better suited to families with older children or adult groups.

Amenities

ElevatorPrivate PoolGymAir ConditioningWiFiParkingFireplaceBeach AccessSea ViewTerracePet FriendlyLaundryWasher

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TheChosenStay's Guide

dining

Restaurant Le Boucanier

A seaside restaurant offering excellent fish and seafood dishes with views of a medieval castle. The combination of fantastic food and historic surroundings makes it a standout dining experience.

24 minutes by car

experience

Château de la Napoule

This authentic château houses wonderful gardens and an arts museum, providing cultural depth beyond the typical coastal attractions. The peaceful atmosphere offers a perfect contrast to Riviera glamour.

22 minutes by car

activities

Calanque de Maupas

A stunning cove tucked between red cliffs with crystal-clear turquoise waters and excellent snorkelling. Less crowded than most beaches even in peak summer.

13 minutes by car

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Frequently Asked

Click the booking link to be taken directly to our booking partner, where you can check availability and complete your reservation.

Yes, the villa has direct access to a secluded beach via a private rocky path. The beach offers privacy and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is before 12:00.

The nearest commercial airport is Nice Côte d'Azur, approximately 1 hour 17 minutes by road. For private aviation, Cannes-Mandelieu Airport is much closer, though it has restrictions on aircraft size.

Yes, pets are welcome at the villa.

The villa is situated on a rocky outcrop requiring constant supervision of young children. It is better suited to families with older children or adult groups who can safely navigate the coastal setting.

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