The Mimosa Route | Saint Maxime

Every year, from January to March, the Côte d’Azur is draped in a coat of brilliant yellow thanks to the Route du Mimosa, a 130 km tourist route stretching from Bormes-les-Mimosas to Grasse. Winding its way between the coastline and the forested hills, this route offers a unique experience where the azure blue of the sea blends with the vibrant yellow. Ideal for a winter getaway in a mild climate, it allows you to discover the region’s treasures: authentic villages, exceptional local produce, a festive atmosphere and unexpected heritage.

A historical introduction to the Côte d’Azur

The mimosa, native to Australia, first appeared on the slopes of the Croix des Gardes in Cannes around 1880. Its introduction is likely linked to the arrival of the prominent winter visitors of the time, such as the Duke of Vallombrosa, the Marquis de Morès and Lord Brougham. The Society for Horticulture and Acclimatisation played a major role in promoting it, enabling the mimosa to spread rapidly along the Côte d’Azur.

Very quickly, mimosa growers sprang up throughout the region, particularly in Mandelieu, Pégomas, Tanneron and La Roquette. From the stations in Cannes and Mandelieu, bouquets and mimosa plants were dispatched to all the major cities of France and Europe, popularising this golden flower which had become emblematic of the Côte d’Azur.

The mimosa belongs to the genus Acacia and the order Mimosales. This plant has a wide variety of uses:

– Cut flower for bouquets and decorations

– Ornamental plant for gardens and rockeries

– Defensive hedges or windbreaks

– Soil stabilisation and sand retention

There are currently around 800 known species, but it is estimated that 1,200 species may exist worldwide, each offering its own shade of yellow and delicate fragrance.

Events centred on the mimosa

Sainte-Maxime and the Mimosa Route invite you on a colourful, sensory journey amidst the sea, sunshine and golden flowers, for an unforgettable getaway in the heart of the winter French Riviera.

Mimosa can be found lining the roadsides and along the walking trails. It also blooms near homes and in the neighbourhoods on the outskirts of the town, a real feast for the eyes.

The Mimosa Parade

Sainte-Maxime kicks off the parade season on the Côte d’Azur with a colourful spectacle! This year, twelve floats represent the twelve months of the year, offering a festival of creativity and colour. An unmissable celebration that showcases the mimosa and the town’s vitality.

The narrow streets of Sainte-Maxime

Part town, part village, the historic centre of Sainte-Maxime is home to charming squares and waterside terraces. Strolling through its narrow streets means immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere of Sainte-Maxime, blending Provençal traditions with the Mediterranean way of life.

Nature walks and guided tours

To discover Sainte-Maxime in a different light, opt for guided tours or original walking routes. These itineraries allow you to rediscover the town’s architectural and natural heritage, whilst learning about the secrets of the mimosa trees and the local biodiversity.

The covered market

The covered market is the perfect place to awaken your senses. Stroll through the aisles to discover local produce, take in new aromas, meet passionate producers and sample the authentic flavours of Provence.

The mimosa treasure hunt

For enthusiasts and the curious alike, botanical treasure hunts offer the chance to explore the vast diversity of the Acacia genus. Nursery owners, growers and collectors are working to acclimatise new, surprising and original species, much to the delight of nature and botany lovers.