Private driving tour
8/9 hours
Your hotel or cruise ship
English, French & Spanish
A/C minivan up to 8 guests
Moderate
Starting in Hyères, a beautiful town with medieval features, you will see the city walls, the ancient gate, the Templar’s tower, and the Saint-Paul church. Nearby, the luxurious Sainte-Claire garden will give you a sense of the mild climate there.
The town is quite hilly but going to the top is worthwhile. The bravest will discover the Villa Noailles and its Cubist garden, home of the Noailles family in the beginning of the 20th century, who were patrons of the arts and friends of Picasso, Dali, Giacometti, and many others.
The Noailles entrusted the construction of the house to the architect Mallet-Stevens. It is a completely modern construction reflecting the new concerns of the wealthy, creating a new way of life. It is now a museum open to visitors. While climbing up the streets to the Villa, you will have great photo opportunities of the spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea, the islands, and red tiled rooftops.
Nearby, built on the slopes of the hill, Bormes-les-Mimosas is a hilltop village that appears to hang over the valley. It is named after the Mimosas trees (a type of Acacia) that can be found everywhere.
The trees are breathtaking when in full bloom during January and February. All year round, the different species of flowers create a burst of colors when you walk through the streets.
At the top, you will discover the remains of the medieval castle and enjoy the gorgeous view of the coast. On request: wine tasting of Côtes de Provence wine and/or a beach stop during the season
