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A magnificent century-old castle on the French Riviera, previously owned by a Russian oligarch, is now up for sale after years of legal battles. The Château de la Garoupe, located in Antibes, is situated on more than 24 acres of land and boasts direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that the sprawling estate, which served as the residence of a Russian oligarch, could potentially sell for over $100 million.
Encompassing a grand total of 14,000 square feet, the palatial main residence of the chateau is filled with luxurious amenities. The north side of the mansion is dedicated entirely to a drawing room, a music room, and a billiards room. Additionally, the primary bedroom features a dressing room and a vast terrace with breathtaking views of the sea. The estate also includes five guest rooms and a winter garden for added charm.
The outdoor spaces offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean to the south and the Gulf of Antibes to the north. One can easily step out for a refreshing swim in the sea, and for those who prefer poolside relaxation, the estate's pool and jacuzzi provide perfect opportunities to unwind. Furthermore, a recently added tennis court invites enthusiasts to practice their backhand skills.
Originally built in 1907 for English baron and parliamentarian Charles McLaren, the la Garoupe castle remained in his family until it was acquired by Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky in the 1990s. Berezovsky, a notable critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was among the first Russian oligarchs to invest in properties on the French Riviera. After a prolonged legal battle, the French government confiscated Berezovsky's former residence in 2015 as part of a money-laundering case. The estate is now being sold by AGRASC, France's agency for seized and confiscated goods, with an estimated value of $131.5 million, as reported by Nice-Matin newspaper. This century-old chateau, nestled in one of the most exclusive areas frequented by the wealthy and famous, represents a remarkable architectural and cultural heritage. Its acquisition offers a unique opportunity to own a prestigious residence with a rich history in an enchanting setting, as stated by Agrasc.
With its unrivaled location on the Cap d'Antibes and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, the Château de la Garoupe comprises a main mansion, five annexes, and extensive landscaped grounds spanning approximately 10 hectares. The main mansion, spanning about 1,300 square meters, features opulent drawing, music, and billiards rooms, a winter garden, and six guest suites. The estate also offers a pool, tennis court, jacuzzi, fountains, and gardens. The sale of this prestigious property follows an extensive court battle involving Berezovsky's creditors, including billionaire Roman Abramovich and Russian airline Aeroflot. The auction process includes initial bids due by June 17, scheduled visits in September, and final offers to be submitted by October 6.
The Château de la Garoupe, once a cherished retreat for a Russian oligarch, presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of French Riviera history and experience the epitome of luxury living in an enchanting and exclusive setting.
Références :
1. Afp. (2023, June 2). Côte d’Azur: L’ex-château d’un riche Russe va être mis en vente. 20 Minutes. https://www.20min.ch/fr/story/un-chateau-saisi-aux-proches-dun-richissime-russe-va-etre-mis-en-vente-224422581861
2. Sunday Times E-Edition. (n.d.). PressReader. https://times-e-editions.pressreader.com/article/282673281768676
3. Latham, T. (2023, July 10). Robb Report. Robb Report. https://robbreport.com/shelter/homes-for-sale/chateau-de-la-garoupe-sale-1234861115/
