Epstein's Secret Hunt for Ultra-Private Swiss Villas Revealed in New Files
Newly released documents from the Epstein Files reveal that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein explored buying two high-end Swiss villas in 2010. One of these was Villa Rose, a sprawling estate in Meggen, Lucerne, once owned by the late commodities trader Marc Rich. The deal, however, never went ahead.
The Villa Rose property, covering 10,200 square metres, included a boathouse, staff quarters, landscaped gardens, and a wellness facility. Former U.S. basketball executive David Stern acted as an intermediary, offering the villa to Epstein on behalf of Marc Rich. Stern emphasised the estate's high-security features and complete privacy in his communications.
A real estate firm had initially described the property to Stern, unaware that he would pass the details to Epstein. Stern suggested handling the sale discreetly, without involving an agency, due to his close ties with Rich.
Epstein also inquired about a second lakeside estate on Lake Zug in the canton of Zug. The real estate advisor linked to this property later confirmed Stern's inquiry but stated she had no contact with Epstein. She was unaware of any connection between Stern and Epstein until the documents surfaced.
The attempted purchases highlight Epstein's interest in acquiring secluded, high-security properties in Switzerland. Neither deal progressed beyond initial discussions. The revelations come from documents now part of the public record.
