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The Most Floral Villages of the French Riviera
These medieval villages remain the definitive examples of a quaint coastal heritage, where precisely curated gardens and floral alleyways illustrate a timeless, quiet splendour.
Bormes-les-Mimosas
Bormes-les-Mimosas is a beautiful medieval hilltop village tucked into the mountains, offering phenomenal panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline. Named after the vibrant mimosas that bloom in late winter, the village is also known for its lush displays of bougainvilleas, hydrangeas, and roses during late spring and summer. When visiting, wander through the labyrinth of narrow alleys and discover the village’s pastel-coloured houses, ancient fountains, and picturesque squares, or climb to the top for astonishing views of the coast and the Hyères Islands. Bormes-les-Mimosas features quintessentially Provençal stores, including art galleries and boutiques selling ceramics, hats, and artisanal wicker bags. If you’re visiting from Saint-Tropez, a rental car is highly recommended, as the journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
Mougins
Mougins is a charming, yet quiet medieval hilltop village, cradled in the mountains with a particular circular layout. It features narrow, quaint cobbled streets, stone archways, and flowery alleyways filled with art galleries, boutiques, and small squares with fountains. While at Mougins, take a moment to enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and glimpses of the Bay of Cannes to the south, while exploring its many restaurant terraces. For convenience, note that the village offers an open-air parking lot that is free of charge.
Èze Village
Perched high up in the mountains, the village of Èze offers a fairy-tale view of the French Riviera coastline from its narrow, flower-adorned streets and ancient stone archways. A primary highlight is Le Jardin Exotique at the top of the village, which provides an unforgettable panoramic vista of the Côte d'Azur and Cap-Ferrat. If visiting, an early morning arrival is recommended to avoid crowds for photography, though walking through the village at night is also a special experience to consider.
Grimaud
Grimaud is a peaceful heaven located just 20 minutes from Saint-Tropez, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Gulf. During late spring and summer, the village is exceptionally beautiful, featuring lush displays of vibrant purple bougainvilleas that adorn its limestone houses and narrow cobbled alleys. Dedicate some time to fully explore its many picture-perfect corners, before relaxing at the Place de l’Église. If you are driving, note that the village provides metered open-air parking at both the main Grimaud lot and the Place de l’Église.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Enclosed in medieval walls, the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence is celebrated as one of the most beautiful mountain-top villages on the French Riviera. It is best to visit between 8:30 am and 9:00 am to enjoy the quiet, narrow streets and flowery corners before tourist buses arrive. The village is well known for its many lively art galleries and the picturesque ancient square featuring the Grande Fontaine. For parking, spaces are available at the underground Parking Indigo Saint-Paul-de-Vence or via metered street parking on Route des Serres.
Discover the Guide
The French Riviera is home to several of the most picturesque villages in all of Europe.
Learn more about these and many other with the 14-day French Riviera Digital Travel Guide, complete with day-by-day itineraries, suggested locations to stay, eat and discover, as well as essential travel tips to consider before your visit.