Grace Kelly's Provençal estate is an unexpectedly maximalist jewel – listed for $12.5 million

A villa frequented by Grace Kelly, later Princess Grace of Monaco, is currently on the market for $12.92 million – and its interiors are equally as exciting as its Provençal postcode. 

The Philadelphia-born actress, who married Rainier III, Prince of Monaco, was known for her impeccable taste, and this is seen in her evident in her choice of vacation homes, not least in this historic property named Les Moulins du Villars. The 14th-century estate, formally an olive oil mill, spans 2.1 hectares in a quaint village in Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur – a location that became one of the princess’s favorite destinations in the final years of her life.

With its surrounding troves of olive groves and views of the surrounding nature reserve, Les Moulins du Villars is one of the most iconic properties currently listed in Cote d’Azur – and one of the world's best homes. Here, we take a tour.

Count Jean Fernand Joseph Gouin de Roumilly purchased the villa in the 1970s before Princess Grace frequented the property in 1980 with her daughter Princess Caroline. Reportedly, she often visited with gifts, such as statues, that remain in the property today. 

Atop a maze of citrus trees, the main villa consists of four floors – two living rooms, two kitchens, four family bedroom suites, two guest suites, and a Bollywood-style television room. The villa, rebuilt in 2012, has retained its original rustic charm while playing with contemporary design trends in its interiors. 

Most significantly, maximalism reigns supreme in the grand living spaces that flirt with a regal purple color scheme – possibly a nod to its royal Monégasque history. 

This maximalist aesthetic continues into the sleeping areas, many of which play with over-indulgent prints we might never have expected to have seen in such a residence.

Alongside the main home, the estate includes several other buildings, including a semi-restored ruin dating from Roman times named 'The Sanctuary.' This ancient flower mill is now used for parties, musical soirees, and seminars, but there's no reason why the party can't also spill out poolside. 

The swimming pool terrace comes complete with views of the village of Gilette and the Latti Valley alongside an outdoor living room space that boasts ample shade from the southern French sunshine.

Naturally, the estate also includes a tennis court, a helicopter landing pad, and a stone-built four-car garage.

Despite its natural surroundings, the home is only one hour’s drive from Nice, famously associated with Hollywood greats, both in Grace Kelly's golden era and in the contemporary day.

Peter Illovsky of Cote D’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty currently holds the $12,500 million listing.