It's an old fortress on a tiny island, surrounded by pine trees and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea: The Fort de Bregancon has been the very private holiday retreat of French leaders for decades. And now it's open to the public, report ABC News.
Socialist President Francois Hollande has decided to break with tradition and to show it to the masses for the first time instead of vacationing there, as a symbol of a toned-down presidential lifestyle in tough economic times.
The stylish villa is located on one of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of the French Riviera.
Visitors can walk in the salons, the dining room and the president's office, but shouldn't expect the marble, gilding and elegant parquet floors you find in many French palaces. Instead, white walls and simple tiles on the floor, in the local Mediterranean style, make it look like a family house.
"It is also the charm of the place: The president can live like ordinary people do, in a simple environment," said Bernard Le Magoarou, administrator of the fort.
Built in the Middle Ages, it became state property during the French Revolution. Gen. Charles de Gaulle made it the official residence of the Republic after spending a memorable — if not very pleasant — night in it in 1964.
Read more of this report from ABC News.