He had the wit , the charm , a certain self-esteem and a taste for beautiful things . Saint Petersburg-born playwright Sacha Guitry , like many other artists , was fond of the sunbathed Riviera landscapes - to the point of living in a sumptuous Cap d ’ Ail villa on the coastal path leading to the Principality of Monaco . Built in 1904 and known as Villa Gioia Mia , Sasha renamed it ‘ Les Funambules ’ ( tightrope walkers ) alluding to his childhood spent in the actors ’ family . He wrote his many plays here , full of caustic and devastating humour . This haven of tranquility , greenery and breathtaking Mediterranean views , gave him comfort and inspiration .

A park was eventually created above this Belle Epoque house , named after the writer . These charming gardens are paying homage to the natural elegance of this extraordinary man .

As soon as you take Boulevard François de May , an imposing banana tree will catch your attention . As you slowly descend towards the sea , you are greeted by the Aleppo pines , holm oaks and a carob tree with its dry seeds serving as a carat standard for jewellers . You will then see a beautiful ‘ cycas revoluta ’ ( dwarf false palm ) planted in the midst of endemic ferns and delicate greenery . A small path takes us under a pergola topped with fragrant jasmine , continuing into typical Mediterranean plantations : olives , carob trees , agaves , aloes , myrtles and succulents ...

When you head back , enjoy the view of the snow white ‘ Les Funambules ’ facade standing out against the azure sea . The famous film by Sacha Guitry then comes to mind : ‘ Let ’ s make a dream ’...

PARC SACHA GUITRY Boulevard François de May , Cap d ’ Ail Open from 8 a . m . to 6 p . m .

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