Senior Vacation Guide: Bormes-les-Mimosas, France

One of our favorite places in France to visit in the spring, (which normally on the French Riviera, begins sometime in February), is a “perched” medieval village called “Bormes-les-Mimosas.” It means “the Sunny One” and it’s an accurate description because of the flowering trees called “Mimosas” that line the streets and lean out over stone walls -their yellow blossoms are as bright as the sun itself.

And another reason is that no matter what time of year you’re visiting the French Riviera, the beauty of Bormes-les-Mimosa will be sure to please. The sun beats down on the pink-tiled houses that crowd together on both sides of its narrow winding streets and alleyways. The window boxes, glazed ceramic pots, and gardens overflow with jewel-colored flowers.

You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time or walked into one of the paintings of an old master when you walk past medieval houses overgrown with purple bougainvillea or step under an old stone archway into a secret garden! Its title of the “village of flowers” is certainly well-named, and everywhere you turn, you will see photo opportunities!

Bormes still has the imposing remains of a castle and the rampart walls that protected it during the Saracen invasions. 

To those familiar with this quiet little village, one of the most fascinating aspects of Bormes-Les-Mimosas are its narrow little alleyways that lead to secret places filled with unexpected treasures. 

Walk along a narrow alley and turn through a narrow archway and you might find a bubbling fountain, called the  Place l’Isclou d’Amour with the flowing water making music for the birds and a lazy cat napping out in the warm sunlight. 

Or walk up a cobblestone staircase and find yourself in a tiny public garden, on the Rue de l’Horloge.

Turn another way and head up a narrow pedestrian walkway and you’ll come across a comfortable old bench that invites you to sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, the bay and the Golden Iles in the distance, or the Massif des Maures mountains.

The nearby coast has always played a very important part in the rich history of Bormes-Les-Mimosas. In fact, one of the most famous fortresses in the area, “Le Fort de Brégançon ” has been one of the official residences of the president of the French Republic since 1968. It sits 35 meters (115 ft) above the Mediterranean Sea and is connected by a short causeway to the mainland.  Brégançon offers complete privacy and security as well as beautiful gardens, a thick forest, and a private beach, away from the curious and prying eyes of onlookers and the paparazzi alike.
Bregancon is a favorite weekend and summer get-away of the president, his family, and visiting heads of state or celebrity guests.

You’re invited to a party! Bormes-Les-Mimosas is a must-see to add to your vacation itinerary for the sights, sounds, and colors that can only be experienced during the festival time! 

Throughout the spring and summer months, Bormes-Les-Mimosas is one of “the” spots for the true music lover of classical and folk music concerts, many held outdoors, or in the church and at other venues.

Proud of its rich heritage, culture, and traditions, the villagers organize several other large-scale events throughout the year, including the “Festival of the Mimosas” in January, the traditional “Corso Fleur” that attracts thousands of visitors every year in February (and which, for those of us who live here, really heralds the coming of spring!)

In May the “Sports en Lumiere” celebrates sports for everyone and is a great time to see many of France’s top-level athletes. 

Autumn means a celebration of the grape harvests with the “Santo Coupo” and there’s even a car rally in October, for visitors who enjoy a little more excitement. 

And finally, Bormes-Les-Mimosas shouldn’t be missed if you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera in December, because the entire village is transformed into a living “crib” as it is called, and celebrates Christmas and the little Santons figures that Provence is known for along with traditional costumes, food, and fun for everyone.

Looking for a break from the crowded beaches of the French Riviera, or the wall-to-wall people packed into Saint Tropez during the summer months? 

Come to the harbor of Bormes-les-Mimosas and sit at a sidewalk cafe, sipping on a cool drink, and watch the yachts and sailboats coming in and out of the harbor. The harbor offers picturesque views and a wonderful way to cool off from the heat.

Then you can lazily wander along the coastal footpaths to find hidden little creeks and beautiful sandy beaches that are remarkably uncrowded, for being on the French Riviera.

Or, if you prefer a little more excitement, you can enjoy the many amenities of the Golden Isles where you can try scuba diving, water-skiing, windsurfing, or sailing.

Bormes-Les-Mimosas is also a haven for painters, potters, ceramists, and artisans who work with silk, leather, wool, wood, and metal. 

You’ll also find soap makers who sell their hypoallergenic soaps, and other vendors who set up shop on the little alleyways in the summertime and offer real bargains for those who want to take a little of Provence and the “Sunny One” home with them!

About the Author

Learn all about where to go and what to do in the French Riviera from an American who lived there for 16 years. Discover the best places to eat, stay and shop. Why settle for an ordinary vacation, when you can create an extraordinary one? Cheryl and Alain Antier have spent almost 17 years of their marriage traveling, and they share their favorite places with you on this blog!