Red is breathless with anticipation at the thought of photographing one of the year’s most exclusive events: the debut of Chanel’s annual High Jewelry Collection, when the illumination of the stars is brought to earth and shines on those fortunate enough to own one of the pieces.

One lucky couple will experience the magic of CHANEL’s 2026 High Jewelry Collection debut at La Pausa, a villa steeped in history, artistry and the creative spirit of Gabrielle Chanel.

Following a meticulous restoration overseen by architect Peter Marino, La Pausa has reopened as a private home and site for cultural creation, inspiration and education, continuing CHANEL’s commitment to the arts. La Pausa was the only house entirely imagined by Gabrielle Chanel, at a moment when the French Riviera was the epicenter of modern art and the international social scene. Built in the hills of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin in 1928 as an emblem of Chanel’s success and independence, the villa represented a true pause from her business and social activities in Paris.

It served as a beloved second home for Mademoiselle Chanel, where she enjoyed some of her happiest moments—entertaining, playing tennis, dancing, relaxing and hosting a wide range of guests. Many of the leading artists of the era stayed at La Pausa in an artist residency avant la lettre, including Salvador Dalí, who spent four remarkably productive months at the villa in 1938. At La Pausa, Chanel cultivated an art of living that balanced elegant relaxation and invigorating freedom, notable for its break from the traditions and protocols of the early 20th century.

With La Pausa, CHANEL extends CHANEL Heritage Sites, an initiative to restore and activate places of cultural significance in Mademoiselle Chanel’s life. The villa is a private residence and open by invitation only—making this experience an extraordinary privilege, rarely offered and truly once-in-a-lifetime.

Beyond the exclusive presentation of the 2026 High Jewelry Collection, the winning couple will be immersed in a world of refined luxury throughout their stay on the Côte d’Azur. The experience includes Michelin-starred dining, an elegant global welcome cocktail and a black-tie gala evening hosted by CHANEL. Guests will enjoy spa visits, a private driver at their disposal and a program of CHANEL-curated activities designed to celebrate art, beauty and savoir-faire—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Riviera.

This exceptional lot will provide an experience bathed in light, and enable you to share that light with our children through your generous winning bid.

Insider’s Info

This trip is for one (1) couple. It is date specific and must be taken Wednesday, May 6-Sunday, May 10, 2026. Roundtrip airport transfers and ground transportation throughout the trip are included. CHANEL will plan select meals with the winning bidders; these meals include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Additional meals and beverages are not included. Gratuities are only included for the CHANEL-hosted dinners and activities. Additional gratuities are the responsibility of the winning bidders. Curated activities will be based on the winners’ preferences and planned with the CHANEL team.