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Capital of the mimosa, Mandelieu-la-Napoule is a very popular seaside resort on the Côte d'Azur. Enjoying maximum sunshine most of the year, Mandelieu enjoys an ideal location along the Mediterranean, at the foot of the Tanneron massif and Esterel, between Cannes and Saint-Tropez.

The coastline of the commune is composed of long beaches and red rocky coves nestled in the hollow of the garnet mountains, facing the bay of Cannes and the Lérins islands (where pines and eucalyptus trees line the turquoise sea). Fishing, diving, sailing, rowing, yacht hire, zodiac trekking, jet-skiing, parachute, kayaking or catamaran, the sporting and nautical experiences will be multiple during your stay in Mandelieu. With its 3 kilometres of coastline, the city has several fine sandy beaches. If three of them are private (and therefore paying), the others are free and well maintained (Mandelieu has the Blue Flag). The beaches of Château, La Rague and Les Sables d'Or are certainly the most beautiful beaches of the resort. The coves bordering the Massif de l'Estérel are made of small pebbles, immersing in transparent water, perfect for swimming. For memories engraved for life in your memory, board the boat Cala Rossa for a day of swimming with dolphins. In the Pelagos sanctuary, nearly 25,000 protected dolphins rub shoulders with turtles and whales, which you will have the chance to approach during this excursion : young and old will have stars full of them !

Illuminating the streets of Mandelieu between January and March, the mimosa is a real institution in the commune which lives at the rhythm of the flowering of these small suns. In February is held the "Festival of Mimosa", during which Mandolocians celebrate this yellow flower : gatherings, shows, excursions and election of the "Queen of Mimosa" are part of local folklore. A real miniature sun when autumn comes, this flower is at the origin of many walks in the region, such as the famous Mimosa Route. Almost 130 kilometres long, between Bormes-les-Mimosas and Grasse, it is very appreciated by holidaymakers who can thus on foot, by bicycle or by car, discover superb contrasting landscapes, made of blue and yellow, through forest massifs and coastal roads. A multitude of hiking trails also cross the Tanneron Massif, nicknamed the "largest mimosa forest in Europe" : thus, facing the sea, you will discover superb panoramas in the middle of flowering shrubs. Hiking and green tourism enthusiasts will have a field day in Mandelieu : the "Corniche d'Or" along the slopes of the Esterel is one of the most beautiful roads in the region. Overlooking the sea, it offers magnificent views of Pointe de l'Aiguille, Pointe du Cap Roux and Pointe de l'Esquillon. The San Peyre ("sacred mountain" of Mandelieu according to Maupassant) as well as the coastal path will offer you beautiful walks, for young and old. The most daring walkers will embark on the ascent of the slopes of the Esterel, to try to observe from its summit (Mont Vinaigre), a sumptuous spectacle on the Côte d'Azur.

Do not miss the visit of the castle of Napoule : this building with its feet in the water is one of the emblematic figures of the city. Old military fort witness of history (it underwent looting, invasions, revolutions of all kinds and wars), it was bought by an American painter and sculptor who gave it back life at the beginning of the 20th century. Fantastic place, renowned for its sumptuous receptions and its strong cultural appeal, it now hosts concerts, exhibitions and artistic events. Renowned for its romantic gardens, its art studio is also worth a visit thanks to the many collections it houses.

Finally, this elegant seaside resort with its enchanting decor is popular with golfers: the city has a prestigious green facing the sea, dotted with centenary pines, where amateur and experienced golfers can indulge in their favourite sport in an idyllic setting. Another chic and unmissable activity in Mandelieu : the casino. Slot machines, disco, table games and shows await players in a trendy and festive atmosphere to enjoy the holidays until the end of the night.

More information about the region :

Côte d'Azur

Provence

Activities and Events

During a hike on the Esterel, admire the superb landscapes that plunge into the Mediterranean Sea.

The city's most prestigious artery, it offers a sublime panoramic view of the Esterel and the Cap d'Antibes.

From Cannes, embark for Saint Honorat, in the heart of the Lérins islands and discover fabulous landscapes.