13 Mar Luxury Vacation Rentals in the French Riviera – Interview with Carlton International

Of course we wouldn’t turn down a night or two in a luxury or boutique hotel, but we’re always big advocates of boutique and luxury vacation rentals. Nothing beats the full features, conveniences and privacy or having your own lux suite, condo or villa. Just being able to stretch out by the pool, admire the view and act like you own the place (even if only for a week).

One of my favourite luxury destinations is the French Riviera, with it’s combination of luxury, history, culture, beautiful scenery and great weather it’s been a popular choice since forever. A big real estate agency handling some of the best properties in the area (and therefor the world) is Carlton International, based out of the beautiful seaside town of Antibes. We had the chance to ask them a few questions on their work dealing with some of the most coveted areas of land in the world.

LuxuryBranded: Of course you’ll face stiff competition considering the real estate you’re working with, what sets you apart from other luxury villa rental companies?

Carlton International: We have a large rental portfolio offering exceptional properties from St Jean Cap Ferrat to Saint Tropez. The portfolio has been developed over many years by building a relationship of trust with each of our owners (allowing us, for example, to negotiate the best deals and rental conditions for our customers).

Furthermore, Carlton International is reactive to the market, we recognise that our clients require a certain level of service as well as outstanding properties so every booking involves a custom approach and benefits from the outstanding concierge services our clients can access.

There are also our Five Star French Riviera Villa Hotels, these are a selection of our most impressive estates with added hotel luxuries on-site, such as chefs, butlers, chauffeurs, daily maid service and just about anything else the client could require.

Luxury Branded: The French Riviera has always been an international destination, how have you seen the landscape of the luxury travel industry changed in the last few years?

Carlton International: The luxury market is rapidly developing with the emergence of new economies in India, China and Brazil providing a growing number of potential customers for luxury tourism. The needs of our clientele become ever more demanding and pose new challenges for the key players in luxury tourism. Luxury is the art of living on pleasure and well-being; high quality services have become more important to our customers than the products we offer.

The ability to create an original universe, to continually surprise our customers, this is our idea of ​​luxury. Newly equipped with a professional concierge service we can offer our customers a new vision of holidays on the Côte d’Azur. It is now possible to deliver excellence and provide an exceptional stay with the exclusivity our clientele desire.

Luxury Branded: What are your typical clients and what are they looking for with their stay?

Carlton International: Our clients are many and varied but still have something in common: the pursuit of excellence. These are European and global high net worth individuals from very different backgrounds. We cater to industrialists, financial experts, sports stars, actors, singers…

For some customers, the purpose of a property is quiet, family get togethers or discovering the charm and relaxation of the Riviera. For others, the French Riviera is synonymous with festivity; they come to enjoy the nightlife of Cannes or Saint Tropez.

Luxury Branded: While the South of France should need no introduction, please share why it’s so amazing for those who don’t know.

Carlton International: This is one of the most beautiful tourist regions; the French Riviera is a mythical place that combines all pleasures. Beyond the Mediterranean climate, which is consistently mild and sunny, this area boasts a wide variety of attractions customers from different backgrounds enjoy. Some come to experience the coast, others in search of authenticity, prefer the hinterland. Indeed, the French Riviera is home to extraordinary landscapes and beautiful beaches as well as famous cities such as St. Tropez, Cap d’Antibes, Cannes, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat and charming small Provencal villages. Many water sports and theme parks provide activities to entertain families. Some take a luxury yacht off the Gulf of Saint Tropez, while foodies and wine lovers will be delighted by the Provencal specialties. The Riviera is also rich in nightlife with high society events throughout the summer in Cannes, St Tropez and Monaco.

Luxury Branded: Ok while every listing in your catalog are just spectacular, is there one that you can share that can even stand out among them?

Carlton International: By far the most spectacular estate we manage is The Carlton Estate (ref 455) set in the heart of a park of 30 hectares, planted with olive trees and lavender. It is in an amazing area enjoying panoramic sea views over the bay of Cannes.

The Carlton Estate

The property is just 20 minutes from the Croisette, 10 minutes to the Cannes Mandelieu Airport and 30 minutes from Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport and accessible by helicopter to the two helipads on the grounds. In fact there are four villas with a total floor space of 2000 m2, accommodating up to 32 people, in 16 rooms and suites.

The amenities are extensive, including a tennis court, a walking or jogging trail of four km, sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, fitness room, three heated swimming pools, conference rooms, offices and multiple lounge areas along with a nightclub.

As part of our villa hotel collection the property enjoys the benefits of a guardian and resident manager, two star Michelin chef, housekeeping, chauffeur services and our custom concierge services including everything from dinner reservations to visits from beauticians, masseurs or fitness instructors.

Luxury Branded: Thanks for your time and we hope to try out one of your properties in person one day! If you’re interested in renting a luxury villa or condo in the French Riviera, visit Carlton-International.com. You can also follow them on Twitter and Facebook.