Step inside Audrey Hepburn’s former home in Switzerland

In the picturesque village of Tolochenaz near Lausanne lies La Paisible - the ‘peaceful place’. This remarkable 18th-century Swiss estate was a discreet and serene retreat for Audrey Hepburn for more than 3 decades, with the actress calling it home from 1963 until her passing in 1993. A few years later her sons sold the estate to the current owners, who in 2001 sensitively renovated the property to preserve the estate’s beauty, imbued with charm and elegance befitting the film and fashion icon.

Now on the market, La Paisible offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Hepburn’s legacy in the prestigious Lake Geneva region, known for its outstanding natural beauty and high standard of living. This sought-after location attracts discerning buyers worldwide, drawn not only by Switzerland’s reputation for personal and economic safety but also its unmatched privacy.

While tax is a key draw, it was the desire for improved privacy and security that came top in a recent survey of high-net-worth individuals and their motivations for relocating according to Knight Frank’s European Lifestyle Report - aspects that Lake Geneva delivers on all fronts, from security and schools to employment, tax and lifestyle.

Situated in a tranquil village yet easily accessible from key transport hubs, La Paisible offers the ideal balance of privacy and convenience. “Just a short drive from Lausanne - a dynamic alternative to Geneva with excellent schools - this charming country home provides a vast flat plot, exceptional seclusion, and ample space for a large family,” says Alex Koch de Gooreynd, Partner in Knight Frank’s International Residential Property team. “With property prices nearly 40% lower than Geneva and the airport just 35 minutes away, Lausanne is an increasingly attractive option for international buyers.”

This cherished home spans approximately 1,000 sq m across 3 levels, encompassing 12 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, with exquisite and unexpected features to be uncovered at every turn. Beautiful terracotta and oak parquet flooring, along with gorgeous fireplaces, speak to the building's rich history. Meanwhile, modern updates ensure a comfortable, contemporary living experience, seamlessly blending the old with the new.

Hepburn’s presence, too, is subtly woven throughout. A plaque outside the house bearing her name speaks to the property’s significant heritage, while the white rosebushes, reportedly a gift from fashion house Givenchy, still bloom in the back garden. The connection with nature extends across 16,000 sq m of magnificent parkland adorned with century-old trees, further adding to the seclusion of its unique setting. Carefully placed away from the main house is a heated pool, while the expansive estate includes two indoor garages and outdoor parking for 15 cars.

As Koch de Gooreynd describes, the property is truly one of a kind. “The home’s timeless architecture, a sought-after feature among ultra-high-net-worth families, only adds to its appeal. It’s easy to see why Audrey Hepburn adored the environment, where she enjoyed both complete privacy and breathtaking surroundings.”

Price on application. For further details, please contact Alex Koch de Gooreynd.