Castellaras le Vieux: An exceptional private estate by Jacques Couëlle in the heart of the French Riviera

Perched in the hills between Mougins, Valbonne, and Cannes, nestled within a lush 13-hectare park, lies a place as discreet as it is captivating: Castellaras le Vieux. Conceived in the 1950s by visionary architect Jacques Couëlle, this private estate is far more than a residential development—it is a masterpiece of organic architecture, a livable work of art, a timeless haven in the heart of Provence.

An Address Steeped in History and Prestige

Behind its understated gates, Castellaras le Vieux reveals a world suspended in time. Here, every stone tells a story: from a Roman castrum to a neo-medieval castle rebuilt in the 1920s, and finally, to a private village born from the dream of a genius architect. Over the years, the estate has welcomed many prominent figures, including the Aga Khan, Elizabeth Arden, Ian Fleming, David Niven, and Charles Boyer. Even The New York Times has paid homage to this exclusive retreat with a glowing feature.

A Unique Architecture, Where Art Meets Nature

Designed by Jacques Couëlle, the master of architectural sculpture, Castellaras le Vieux comprises 82 Provençal-style houses, each one entirely unique, arranged around a central château transformed into a private club. With their organic lines, asymmetrical openings, and authentic materials—aged beams, weathered terracotta tiles, wrought iron from the era—each home exudes rare charm and character.

The architectural challenge? To create a village where every residence enjoys sweeping views of the sea, mountains, or surrounding hills, all while preserving complete privacy. Mission accomplished: here, no one sees their neighbor, yet all share a refined and harmonious lifestyle.

Jacques Couëlle: The Signature of a Visionary on the Riviera

A self-taught architect, Jacques Couëlle left a lasting imprint on the Mediterranean landscape with his freeform, organic style deeply inspired by nature. Nicknamed “the architect of the irrational,” he collaborated with Le Corbusier while carving his own path, sculpting homes directly into the rock and greenery. In addition to Castellaras le Vieux, Couëlle also designed the Domaine de Beaumont in Valbonne—once the Kennedy family's vacation residence—as well as several iconic villas in Théoule-sur-Mer, the Estérel, and the hills of Cannes and Saint-Paul de Vence. Everywhere, his style is instantly recognizable: homes conceived as works of art, halfway between modernist grottos and Mediterranean sanctuaries.

A Discreet and Refined Way of Life

Castellaras le Vieux offers a chic village atmosphere, with premium services that make everyday life effortless: a swimming pool, tennis courts, a clubhouse, garden maintenance, concierge services on request, enhanced security… Everything is designed to allow residents to enjoy their stay without a care. The estate operates under a unique cooperative model, with each homeowner holding shares proportional to the value of their property.

Just minutes from Cannes, the beaches, golf courses, and the region’s finest gastronomic addresses, this haven of peace strikes the perfect balance between cultural life, leisure, and serenity.

An Exclusive Opportunity on the French Riviera

Properties for sale within the estate are rare and highly sought after. Their distinctive architecture, prime location between Mougins and Valbonne, and the artistic legacy of Jacques Couëlle make them particularly coveted—whether as a second home or a long-term investment.

For buyers in search of a truly unique place to live, steeped in history and emotion, Castellaras le Vieux represents an exceptional opportunity on the Côte d’Azur.

Would you like to learn more about the villas currently for sale within the estate?

Our team specializing in the hinterland of Cannes at Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty offers tailored guidance to help you discover this extraordinary site in the best possible conditions.

Contact us today.