The History Of
Domaine du Piol
Villa Olivade is located in Domaine du Piol. The Domaine began life as a beautiful French Provençal Hotel Called Le Cocard.
Situated just below the village of Saint Paul de Vence with an elevated position and steep escarpments, Le Cocard was a peaceful place to relax with spectacular 360-degree views to the coast of Antibes to the South, with Saint Paul de Vence and the Mountains to the North.
Le Cocard was frequently visited by many of the well-known artists of the time who stayed in the village. The Hotel & Restaurant, La Colombe d'Or still has the largest private collection of art from the likes of Matisse, Renoir, Picasso, Marc Chagall and others. All who were regular guests. The domaine was also used for the rooftop scenes of Hitchcock’s film ‘To catch a thief’.
Unfortunately, the hotel could not compete with La Colombe d’Or and a new hotel called Le Mas d’Artigny. Without financial investment and commitment from the owner, the Hotel eventually closed down.
A view of Domaine du Piol from the ramparts of St Paul de Vence
After closing, the Domaine was occupied by various institutions with a few permanent residents. However, the upkeep required was too much for those residents and the domaine started to deteriorate.
In 2001, Domaine du Piol was bought by two entrepreneurs. Many of the properties were in poor condition so they set about the task of renovating the main hotel and the surrounding villas around the perimeter of the Domaine. Villa Olivade was one of those villas and was purchased in 2002.
The renovation of the properties was strictly controlled to ensure that it was kept faithful to the structure and style of the original building. Right down to the style of the windows and the colours of the walls and shutters. The full-size open-air swimming pool was one of the major renovations that were beneficial to everyone.
Today, Domaine du Piol is now restored to its former glory. The views are still spectacular and all of the available properties are owned and used.
If you are looking for somewhere to stay on the French Riviera that is peaceful and quiet within walking distance of the beautiful village of Saint Paul de Vence, yet still have quick access to the rest of the Côte d’Azur, then Domaine du piol could be the ideal place for your holiday.
Getting to Domaine du Piol
Domaine du Piol is in the commune of Saint Paul de Vence. Nice airport is just 20 minutes by car. The 400 bus from the airport takes about 1 hour but is good value. There are plenty of Taxis available as well as Uber Taxis which are much cheaper. The major car hire companies are all located at Nice Airport. Make sure you book your car in advance. If you are arriving with just a bike, the Airport has facilities for you to build your bike and leave your bike box for the duration of your holiday.
You too can enjoy the domaine by renting Olivade for a vacation holiday.
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