Château de la Moutte

The Château de la Moutte: A Romantic Jewel in the Heart of Saint-Tropez

Timeless Elegance at the Heart of the Peninsula

Nestled within the splendid peninsula of Saint-Tropez, surrounded by a lush park adorned with majestic palm trees, the Château de la Moutte emerges like a romantic gem. A living witness of the 19th century, this historic treasure invites a journey through time with its refined architecture and meticulously maintained gardens.

An Extraordinary Heritage in Legacy

The tale of the château dates back to the 19th century, when the Martin de Roquebrune family erected the Château des Salins in 1856. Four years later, in 1860, Emile Ollivier, a renowned statesman, lawyer, and last Prime Minister of Napoleon III, was enchanted by this Provençal bastide located between Salins Beach and Saint-Tropez. Eager to make it his "family nest," Emile Ollivier acquired it with his first wife Blandine, the eldest daughter of the famous composer Franz Liszt and writer Marie d'Agoult.

The Château de la Moutte then underwent a remarkable transformation. Emile Ollivier initiated extensive renovations, adding two majestic wings to the central body of the château and creating an enchanting gallery in the northeast. This architectural campaign, completed in 1866, bestowed upon the château its current appearance, adorned with facades inspired by the original Château des Salins. Molded windows, cornices, intermediate bands, and angle chains in imitation stonework exude timeless elegance. Lattice railings crown the facades' summits, adding a touch of originality and refinement.

A Sanctuary for Art and Culture

The Château de la Moutte overflows with history and culture. It was the perfect haven for Emile Ollivier, seeking retreat from the bustle of Paris. An accomplished politician and fervent republican, he marked his era by joining the Bonapartist government to pursue his liberal reforms. After his political career, Emile Ollivier dedicated himself to writing, producing seventeen volumes of his political testament "L'Empire libéral," while maintaining a vibrant correspondence with intellectuals and eminent political figures of his time.

The château's splendor and enchanting setting inspired many artists who stayed there. Thus, the Château de la Moutte became a true sanctuary for the fine arts, particularly music, in harmony with its illustrious owner's spirit. Every summer, the Nuits du Château de la Moutte illuminate the château's cool courtyard with open-air concerts, providing exceptional acoustics and allowing artists to engage with their audience in an intimate and enchanting setting.

The château's library houses an exceptional literary treasure with its 4,500 volumes. It ranks among France's most remarkable private libraries. Stately busts of Molière, Napoleon, Lamartine, Socrates, Seneca, Cicero, and Machiavelli solemnly overlook this reading and research room. Original editions inscribed by famous writers such as Victor Hugo, Alfred de Vigny, Frédéric Mistral, Ivan Turgenev, and many others grace its shelves. This library reflects Emile Ollivier's era and his love for the arts and culture.

A Site of Memory and Current Discoveries

The Château de la Moutte is also a place of memory, bequeathed to the Conservatoire du Littoral by Emile Ollivier's granddaughter, Anne Troisier de Diaz. Managed by the city of Saint-Tropez, this enchanting estate continues to shine, bearing witness to an extraordinary historical and cultural heritage.

Today, the Château de la Moutte preserves its former grace and continues to awe visitors with its romantic ambiance and close ties to arts and culture. Partially listed as a Historic Monument, this exceptional site undoubtedly remains one of the most precious treasures of Tropezian heritage, captivating souls in search of inspiration and beauty in the heart of the French Riviera.

Rich Experiences for Today's Visitors

Today, the Château de la Moutte in Saint-Tropez transcends its role as a mere historic residence. It has transformed into an essential destination for visitors seeking cultural experiences and escapism. The varied activities offered at the château provide a journey through time, blending history, art, and contemporary entertainment.

Guided Tours and Cultural Events

The château opens its doors for guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the lavishly decorated salons, the exceptional library, and the enchanting gardens. Passionate guides unveil captivating stories of the château and its illustrious occupants, immersing visitors in the romantic atmosphere of the 19th century. Cultural events such as art exhibitions, intimate concerts, lectures, and film screenings also take place within the château.

Concerts and Festivals

The Domaine de la Moutte honors its musical heritage. Every summer, the Festival Les Nuits du Château de la Moutte presents a diverse program of open-air concerts in the château's courtyard. Internationally renowned musicians perform in an enchanting setting, creating unforgettable evenings under the stars.

Weddings and Private Events

The Château de la Moutte is a perfect setting for fairytale weddings and exclusive private events. Romantic gardens, elegant salons, and a history-laden atmosphere create a unique ambiance for celebrating special moments. Many couples choose this enchanting location for their weddings, leveraging the château's beauty to forge lasting memories.

Workshops and Artist Residencies

The Emile Ollivier estate continues to inspire contemporary artists. Creative workshops and artist residencies are regularly organized at the château, offering emerging and established talents the unique opportunity to draw from the site's history and beauty to nourish their creativity.

Outdoor Activities

Beyond cultural visits, the Château de la Moutte's park invites visitors to relax amidst lush vegetation. Peaceful walks in the gardens, romantic picnics, and meditation sessions allow visitors to reconnect with nature and savor the tranquil serenity of the estate.

Wine Tastings

The preserved vineyards of the Emile Ollivier estate continue to produce fine wines, bearing witness to the site's viticultural heritage. Wine tastings are organized to allow visitors to savor local grape varieties and appreciate the passion surrounding winemaking in the region.

The Château de la Moutte in Saint-Tropez has evolved to meet the expectations of contemporary visitors while preserving its historical and cultural legacy. Through its diverse activities and varied artistic program, the château continues to captivate and enchant all those who have the privilege to discover it, perpetuating the magic of a place imbued with romance and history.