FAQs
Villa Hippocampo FAQs
What is unique about Villa Hippocampo on the Côte d'Azur?
Villa Hippocampo offers a luxurious stay with a floor-to-ceiling window-filled modern design. It has open airy and spacious living areas with unsurpassed expansive views of the yacht-filled harbor and Mediterranean Sea beyond. The villa offers an infinity pool overlooking the famous Golden Triangle, one of the most sought-after views on the French Riviera. Its prime location on the cliffs of Villefranche-sur-Mer enables quick and easy access to the local restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and beaches as well as the best attractions of the French Riviera. We do not know of any other villas with a combination of water views and walking access to all of the village activities.
How far is Villa Hippocampo from the popular destinations in the Côte d'Azur?
Villa Hippocampo is just 30 minutes from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers flying in from around the world. Its perfect location in Villefranche-sur-Mer makes it easy to explore iconic destinations like Monaco, Cannes, Eze, St. Paul de Vence, Antibes, Mougin, Grasse, and Nice. Whether you’re looking to soak in the region’s rich history or enjoy world-class dining and shopping or use it as base to explore the Côte d’Azur, Villa Hippocampo is a gateway to everything Côte d’Azur has to offer.
Is Villa Hippocampo ideal for large groups or families?
Definitely! Villa Hippocampo is designed with families and groups in mind. The spacious living spaces provide room for everyone to relax, while the multiple bedrooms ensure privacy and comfort. While the outdoor spaces offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, you’ll also find inviting dining areas and a private pool. If you’re traveling with children, let us know—we’re happy to provide the little touches that will make your stay effortless, from baby equipment to family-friendly games. This villa isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place to create memories together.
What amenities are included in the luxury rental of Villa Hippocampo?
Villa Hippocampo is a place for luxury and comfort and offers a range of amenities to make your stay truly extraordinary. You can start your mornings with Nesspresso by the pool or terrace gazing out at the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea. Villa Hippocampo offers a fully equipped kitchen and access to a list of top private chefs. Luxurious bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and bespoke toiletries, high-speed internet to keep you connected, and housekeeping services to ensure your villa stays pristine. A concierge is also available to arrange everything from event tickets to exclusive local experiences such as yachting or cooking lessons. Villa Hippocampo is more than a villa—it’s your private escape into the splendor of the French Riviera.
How much would it cost to rent Villa Hippocampo?
The cost of renting Villa Hippocampo varies depending on the time of year and the length of your stay. Each booking is tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring you get the most out of your time here. To receive a personalized quote and explore availability, simply reach out to us. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your experience is seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable.
Amenities FAQs
Is cleaning included?
Yes, the villa will be cleaned twice weekly. Additional housekeeping is available at an additional charge.
Are paper goods and cleaning products provided?
Yes, the pantry is well stocked with paper products such as paper towels, tissues, and toilet tissue. Cleaning products and detergent for washing clothes is also provided.
Why choose a private villa over a hotel?
If you are looking for privacy (pool, garden, dining, living space), tranquility, customized service, better nightly rates per person, extraordinary views, and a one of a kind experience, you can find that only in a private villa rental on the Cote d’Azur.
Is there maid service?
The villa rates include cleaning twice weekly. Additional cleaning, including daily service, can be arranged at an additional charge.
Is there concierge service to help us make reservations, arrange activities and the like?
There is a personal concierge and villa manager who was formerly the Concierge at the Prince’s Palace in Monaco. He can make reservations, procure tickets, arrange for personal chef service, yoga lessons, private massage, transportation and most other requests you may have while staying at the villa. The concierge does not charge for his services, only the services he procures for you (which are charged at cost.) However, a generous gratuity is always appreciated for a job well done!
Logistics FAQs
Where can we park?
There are two rooftop spaces at the entry gate level. There is also an enclosed garage space for a small to medium sized car and plenty of free on street parking for extra cars and guests.
How long a drive is the villa from the Nice airport?
Without traffic, it usually takes about 25 minutes. With traffic, it can take as long as 45 minutes during rush hour in non- summer months.
Can we reach the villa without a car?
There is great public transportation in Nice and near the villa. However, the last few minutes on foot include a set of stairs which would pose a huge challenge for those carrying luggage. If you have not rented a car, we suggest using a taxi or UBER (which is very dependable and economical in Nice.)
Where do you suggest we do our grocery shopping?
There are several large well-stocked supermarket chains within ten minutes of the villa. We like to get the basics (and wine) from these stores and shop for produce, baked goods, meat and fish from small local stores and markets which have the freshest and highest quality goods one can find—just about anywhere on the planet! There is a list of these stores at the villa.
How far is it to drive to Italy?
It is about 45 minutes to the Italian border, just 15 minutes further than Monaco. Although there is a checkpoint and you should carry your passport “just in case”, cars are rarely stopped and you would barely notice that it is an international border. If you don’t want to drive, the train takes you to the seaside town of Ventimiglia in about 30 minutes and dozens of other towns beyond on the Italian Riviera. Most train stations are a very short walk from the center of the Italian Coastal towns.
Is the villa accessible?
Due to having four stories, the villa is not “accessible” and would not be a good fit to anyone where stairs present a challenge.
Will I need a Car?
The Village of Villefranche, its restaurants, shops and the beaches are easily accessible on foot. There is also a bus stop a five minute walk away and the train station about 12 minutes’ walk from the villa. Buses and trains are a very convenient, economical and efficient way to travel. However, there are so many beautiful villages, especially away from the coast, that are worth visiting that renting a car for at least part of your stay is highly recommended.
What is it like to drive on the French Riviera?
The streets and highways are generally in great condition, but the lanes are narrow on the highways and roads leading into villages can be quite narrow for two cars. There are lots of turns and French drivers are known to drive fast and not always in their lane! With a little bit of caution, experience and patience, driving should not present much of a challenge. However, parking may! The spaces in underground parking garages are notoriously small and require a bit of courage and dexterity to master. Renting a smaller car will pay you endless dividends!
Do most people speak English?
You can always find someone who understands English, especially in the more popular villages. But once you leave the main villages, shopkeepers and restaurant owners may have a limited vocabulary. It is rare, however, where you would have a problem due to not being able to speak French.
Support FAQs
Who do we call if we have any questions or issues?
The villa manager will always be available to answer questions, to address any issues and of course for emergencies. You will have his number and he is very responsive.
What if we need medical care?
The villa manager can be very helpful in helping you to find needed medical services. The healthcare system in Nice is quite advanced (the main hospital in Nice is where Angela Jolie chose to deliver her twins). We highly recommend medical insurance in case of an emergency but the cost of doctor’s visits is quite inexpensive compared to the US. There is also a list of emergency numbers prominently displayed in the kitchen and in the master bedroom.
Client Policies FAQs
Are pets allowed?
No. We love pets but the villa is not suitable for them. There are no obvious “pet relief” areas on any of the villa levels or on the street in the neighborhood. Additionally, several of our regular guests are allergic to pets.
Are parties allowed?
No. Parties, events, or large gatherings are strictly prohibited at the villa to maintain the peace and privacy of our guests and neighbors.
How many guests are allowed?
The number of guests is limited to those registered at the time of booking (8). Please ensure the correct number of guests is included in your reservation to avoid any issues during your stay.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-In: 4 pm Saturday
Check-Out: 11 am Saturday
We kindly ask that you adhere to these times to allow for proper cleaning and preparation for the next guests. If you require a late check-out or early check-in, please contact us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate based on availability.