A blend of heritage, creation and nature
The tapestry of time
La Rocabella has its origins in the avant-garde vision of Jules Paitin, an entrepreneur in the field of metallurgy. In 1898, Paitin decided to reorient his life to create a haven of creativity, elegance and communion with nature.
He entrusts this mission to Hans-Georg Tersling, the architect of Empress Eugénie, who is seduced by the Pradet seascape. Tersling then designed an estate combining the grandeur of the neoclassical style with romantic architecture.
Thus was born La Rocabella, which became, during the first half of the 20th century, a popular artistic and literary salon in the south of France. Many artists, writers and intellectuals of the Roaring Twenties stay there.
After the Second World War, Rocabella experienced an unexpected turn by becoming a summer camp for the children of SNCF railway workers.
In 2000, the decorator Patrice Nourissat undertook the restoration of La Folie to restore it to its former charm. Since 2020, the entrepreneur JB Rudelle has been accelerating the renewal of the estate with major works to restore Rocabella to its historic mission: a creative residency in symbiosis with the sea.
An exceptional filming location
If Rocabella seems familiar to you, it's no coincidence. The estate has served as the setting for numerous cinematographic works. With its private cove, its magnificent park with century-old pines, and its interiors with Belle Époque, Art Deco and Roaring Twenties atmospheres, Rocabella embodies the charm that makes the Var a popular place for filmmakers.
More than fifteen feature films have been shot here. Recently, we can mention”Downton Abbey II“(2022), inspired by the famous series. The estate has also hosted shootings of French films such as”An ideal man“(2014),”Les Estivants“(2018),”The Man Who Sold His Skin“(2019) and”The Origin of Evil“by Sébastien Marnier (2022).
Built to combine privacy and professional requirements, the estate is fully equipped to meet the needs of film productions, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience. La Rocabella also contributes to this artistic tradition by organizing residencies to write and shoot documentary films.
A haven of creativity and well-being
In Rocabella, the vision is to offer an exceptional environment of well-being and inspiration for its customers and residents.
“The beauty of the world is only the promise of happiness,” said Stendhal, and that is precisely what Rocabella aspires to offer. The decor, gardens and panoramic sea views provide an inspiring environment that is conducive to collaboration and relaxation.
The dedicated team at Rocabella works passionately every day to create an atmosphere where every detail enriches the experience. Their aim is for residents to find in Rocabella an ideal environment for creation and exchange; centered on generosity, inspiration and conviviality. Rocabella is truly a unique place where art and nature meet to create a sanctuary of peace and creativity.
An ecological commitment
Embracing the Mediterranean, Rocabella recognizes its responsibility towards the fragile marine ecosystems that surround it. Located in harmony with the Port-Cros Marine National Park, we are proud to carry the Esprit Parc label, a symbol of our commitment to nature and environmentally friendly practices.
Our domain regularly hosts residencies and workshops dedicated to sustainable development and climate transition, promoting education and awareness of these crucial issues. These events bring together experts, enthusiasts and professionals eager to contribute to a greener and more responsible future.
Among our initiatives, we have implemented rigorous waste management practices, the use of ecological cleaning products and the promotion of local biodiversity.
Our gardens are maintained in a sustainable manner, by giving priority to local species and by reducing the use of pesticides.
By choosing Rocabella, our customers participate in a wider project of respect and preservation of the environment, thus contributing to the protection of the natural beauty of our planet for future generations.