French Riviera and the Celebrity Connection
The annual international film and television festivals hosted in Cannes draws celebrities into town every year. However, that is not the only reason why the rich and famous flock to the French Riviera. The beautiful weather, breathtaking scenery, posh lifestyle and happening nightlife coupled with good security (read privacy) are what make the stars fall in love with the Cote d'Azur.
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie
The glamorous couple is now the proud owner of the Château Miraval in Correns after completing their 3 year lease-to-own procedure which started in summer 2008. This upmarket property features a well-equipped recording studio, 35 bedrooms, 30 fountains, 13 olive terraces plus a three mile driveway! Other celebrities who have previously rented this sprawling thousand-acre estate (worth $70 million dollars) include Sting, AC/DC and Pink Floyd.
Johnny Depp
This talented actor has also made a home for his family in the beautiful French Riviera. However, luxury is not the key here. The £750,000 private residence in Plan de la Tour serves as a refuge for Depp's family - a place where they can enjoy some solitude, away from the prying eyes of the media.
Irish Rock Band U2
U2 members seem to have taken a fancy to the lovely French coast too. The lead singer Bono has a villa on Eze bord de Mer's waterfront and U2's guitarist, The Edge, owns a property in the neighborhood as well. Another musical celebrity in the district is singer / songwriter Julian Lennon (son of Beatle's John Lennon and his first wife, Cynthia).
Elton John
Elton John's villa atop Mont Boron has a panoramic view of Nice. The award-winning singer/songwriter's opulent mansion (which he shares with gay partner David Furnish) is located in one of the most affluent areas in the Cote d'Azur.
And the list goes on... With so many celebs taking up residency at the French Riviera, what are the chances of bumping into one? Well, to be honest, not much. However, if you should ever be in the vicinity, just keep your fingers crossed. Who knows? You might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of your favorite celebrity!
