Villa Nellcôte is one of the most iconic and memorable places associated with the legendary rock band, the Rolling Stones. This incredible mansion on the South Coast of France served as an unforgettable hideout for the band in the early 1970s. With its bohemian and welcoming atmosphere, Villa Nellcôte witnessed legendary moments while the Rolling Stones recorded their classic album “Exile on Main St.”
The most striking feature of Villa Nellcôte is its eccentric décor. From the decadent style of the 1970s to exotic and oriental influences, each room in this mansion is full of personality and history. The rooms are brought to life with elegant furniture, unique artwork and quirky accessories, each room has its own unique atmosphere.
Discover the hidden details and stories behind every room in this stunning villa. From the extravagance of the recording studio to the laid-back outdoor spaces overlooking the Mediterranean, each space has its own story to tell.
Introduction to Villa Nellcôte
Villa Nellcôte is a stunning mansion located on the Côte d'Azur in the South of France. Built in 1899, the villa is a stunning example of Belle Époque architecture and sits on a large plot of land overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. However, it was in the 1970s that Villa Nellcôte became famous as the retreat of the Rolling Stones during the recording of their iconic album "Exile on Main St."
Terrace of Villa Nellcôte. Photo: Dominique Tarlé
History of Villa Nellcôte
The history of Villa Nellcôte dates back to the late 19th century, when it was built for a French aristocrat, Eugène Thomas, who named it Château Amicitia. In 1919, the villa was purchased by the Bordes family who renamed it Nellcôte. Its beautiful gardens and privileged location overlooking the blue French sea made it a coveted property.
During World War II, the villa went through a dark period and served as a Gestapo headquarters, but it was vacated before the Rolling Stones arrived. In fact, the musicians found traces of the Nazis, including a box of morphine and swastika decorations.
Mick Jagger and Keith Richards at Villa Nellcôte. Photo: Dominique Tarlé
Charlie Watts (left) and Keith Richards (right) on the stairs to the terrace overlooking the sea, 1971. Photo: Dominique Tarlé
Image at Villa Nellcôte. Photo: Dominique Tarlé
The Rolling Stones' connection to Villa Nellcôte
The Rolling Stones, one of the most influential rock bands of all time, were looking for a place to retreat and create a new album. If they decided to stay in the UK they would have to pay 93% income tax, so they found the perfect retreat in Villa Nellcôte, where they spent months immersed in music and bohemian life. The property became a meeting place for musicians, artists and celebrities. They spent countless nights recording, which resulted in the album Exile on Main St., which mixed musical styles such as traditional American, blues and country.
The iconic decor of Villa Nellcôte
Villa Nellcôte is renowned for its unique and extravagant decor. Each room has been carefully decorated to reflect the style and taste of the Rolling Stones. From the living room with its velvet armchairs and heavy curtains to the bedrooms with their vintage furniture and oriental rugs, the villa oozes character and charm.
The highlight of the Villa Nellcôte décor is the recording studio, where the Rolling Stones spent hours creating music. The studio, known as “the basement,” has impeccable acoustics and was designed with a unique sound in mind. Musical instruments, band posters and walls covered in colorful fabrics create an inspiring environment for music creation.
Image of the instruments. Photo/ Reproduction Reservation Riviera
Villa Nellcôte room. Photo: Dominique Tarlé
The architecture of Villa Nellcôte
In addition to its stunning décor, Villa Nellcôte boasts impressive architectural features. The mansion was designed in the Belle Époque style, with elegant facades and ornamental details. Its spacious terraces and balconies offer stunning sea views, while the gardens are an invitation to relax and unwind. appreciate nature.
External image of Villa Nellcôte. Photo: Gilles Dallière/Francis Amiand/Saint-Jean-cap-Ferrat
At the moment
View of the sea from Villa Nellcôte. Photo: David Exposito
In 2006, Villa Nellcôte was bought by a Russian oligarch, Viktor Rashnikov, who is also a friend of Putin, for 100 million euros. Some say that the Russian is not very kind to Rolling Stones fans who see the house as a historical monument.
In 2022, the villa was seized by the French government, following the Russian attacks on Ukraine, which examined several mansions of Russian oligarchs in search of relevant financial assets. As a result of the sanctions, they cannot be sold, mortgaged or even rented, making -as symbols of a wealth that cannot be enjoyed.
