France has long been a magnet for the rich and famous, offering a diverse range of attractions that cater to the discerning tastes of celebrities. From the timeless elegance of Paris to the sun-soaked beaches of the French Riviera, the country provides the perfect backdrop for indulgence and privacy. Many notable figures have become so enamored with France that they have established second homes or developed annual holiday traditions in the country.
In this article, we will explore the favorite French destinations of some of the world’s most famous celebrities, providing insights into their preferred retreats and the allure of these glamorous locations.
Leonardo DiCaprio’s love affair with the French Riviera
Leonardo DiCaprio is one of the most frequent visitors to the French Riviera, with a particular fondness for the iconic Club 55 on Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez. This legendary establishment has been a favorite haunt of the rich and famous since the 1950s and has played host to the likes of Brigitte Bardot. DiCaprio has been spotted at the club with a rotating cast of companions, including his mother and best friend Tobey Maguire.
When he is not soaking up the sun on the Riviera, DiCaprio can be found enjoying the colder climes of the ski mountains in Courchevel or exploring the Champagne capital of Epernay. The actor has even invested in a local eco-friendly business in the region, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable tourism.
Elton John’s summer palace in Nice
Elton John has been a resident of Nice since the 1990s, where he owns a lavish Belle Epoque-style property atop the Mont Boron hill. The singer has described the area as a wonderful part of the world that has been a significant part of his life for many years. The property, known as his summer palace, offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean and has played host to several of John’s close friends, including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
The singer and his family do not spend all their time holed up in their Nice sanctuary and can often be found enjoying the delights of other parts of France. Saint-Tropez is a particular favorite, where John, his husband David Furnish, and their two children can be found sailing the Mediterranean aboard luxury yachts.
Kate Moss’s French holiday itinerary
Kate Moss is another celebrity who has a deep affection for France, with the Ritz Paris serving as her home base whenever she is in the French capital. The supermodel has celebrated her milestone 50th birthday at the hotel and has been a regular visitor during Paris Fashion Week. Her long-standing association with the Ritz has earned her the distinct status of Queen of the Ritz Paris.
However, Paris is just one stop on Moss’s wide-ranging French holiday itinerary. The supermodel can often be found bringing her signature glam to the Côte d’Azur, where she is a loyal patron of hideaways like Club 55. Moss also enjoys wandering around the neighborhood’s swanky streets, soaking up the boho chic atmosphere.
The Clooneys’ Provençal retreat
Amal and George Clooney have taken their love for France to the next level by purchasing a lavish 420-acre property in Brignoles, a picturesque commune in the rolling wine country of Provence. The couple has been spending a significant amount of time at their 18th-century Domaine de Canadel estate, which offers them the privacy they crave away from the glare of Hollywood fame.
The Clooneys are not content to spend all their time at their Provençal retreat and can often be found exploring other local spots in southern France. Cotignac, a lesser-known hideaway just 13 miles from Brignoles, is a particular favorite of the couple. They have been spotted enjoying a meal at the Picotte Provence restaurant, demonstrating their appreciation for the region’s culinary delights.
