Bonjour! Welcome to Bormes-les-Mimosas, one of the most beautiful flower villages on the French Riviera. Hidden between the hills and the sea, this picture-perfect destination bursts with flowers, charm, and beauty. Bormes offers a perfect blend of cobbled streets, colorful facades, scenic views, peaceful atmosphere, and a rich historical heritage. If you’re after a quiet escape, this hidden gem on Cote d’Azur is the place you’re looking for. But be aware – it will seduce you with its charm from the first steps! Let’s explore things to do in Bormes les Mimosas, France.
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Bormes les Mimosas, France FAQ
Bormes les Mimosas village is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in the Var department in Southeastern France. It sits on a hillside at about 150m a.s.l, somewhere between Saint Tropez and Toulon.
Bormes les Mimosas is definitely worth visiting – especially if you love charming medieval villages, scenic views, and colorful flowers. And it’s officially named one of the most beautiful villages in France! Bormes is a perfect destination for a day trip or a peaceful weekend getaway.
Bormes is best known for its floral beauty, especially the vibrant yellow mimosa flowers that bloom between January and March. It’s also officially recognized as one of France’s most flower-filled villages and marks the starting point of the Route du Mimosa – a scenic flower route in the Var region.
One day is enough to explore all the main highlights of the village, including its old town, gardens, and viewpoints. But if you want to relax, explore the surrounding areas, and maybe even enjoy the beaches, we recommend staying in Bormes for at least 3 days.
If you want to experience the famous mimosa bloom, the best time to visit Bormes les Mimosas is from January to March. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and still beautiful floral displays around the village.
About mimosa flowers
The mimosa flower is a symbol of sunshine and the arrival of spring in southern France. They typically bloom between January and March (some varieties can flower year-round), filling the landscape with bright yellow blossoms, golden glow, and sweet, delicate fragrance.
Mimosas were originally brought from Australia in the 18th century and quickly became an iconic part of the landscape in Provence and the French Riviera. Today, you’ll find them in many places along the scenic 130km long Route du Mimosa, which stretches from Bormes to Grasse.
But mimosa flowers are definitely most celebrated in Bormes les Mimosas, a village that proudly carries their name. Here, you can admire them blooming throughout the village and in surrounding areas. In Bormes you can also come across two interesting events each year: Mimosalia (January) – perfect for garden enthusiasts, and the Mimosa Festival with the famous Flower Parade (February) with flower-covered floats and a flower battle.
If you want to learn more about mimosa traditions, events, and their connection to local cuisine, cosmetics, and perfume, visit the bormeslesmimosas.com website.
Things to do in Bormes les Mimosas, France
Bormes village streets
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Bormes les Mimosas is to explore its enchanting medieval old town. And there is no better way to uncover the village’s treasures than by slowly wandering through its picturesque streets. Built on a hillside, Bormes is a maze of cobblestone lanes that wind their way up to the ruins of a castle, offering beautiful views and an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Bormes les Mimosas old town is a delight to explore where pastel-colored houses adorned with flowers, quaint little squares, covered passages, art galleries, and cozy cafes await you at every corner. There, you’ll also find friendly cats eager to be pet and amazing views over the surroundings. Bormes is mostly pedestrianized, making it even more pleasant to explore – just let yourself be carried by its beauty and charm.
Among Bormes les Mimosas streets, you’ll find points of interest like Place Saint-François, Place Gambetta, Place Poulid Cantoun, Place de l’Isclou d’Amour, Rue Carnot, Rue Rompi Cuou, Saint-Trophyme Church, Castle of the Lords of Fos, Place Pouverin, Museum of History and Art, Gonzalez Park, or the scenic Bormes viewing terrace. Soon, we’ll take a closer look at some of them.
Bormes Tourist Office is located in the heart of the village, on Place Gambetta. Be sure to visit to pick up a map and get some tips, including ones about the official Bormes tourist circuit covering all must-see sights.
Streets & squares in Bormes les Mimosas
Bormes-les-Mimosas is a village made for wandering, filled with flower-covered alleyways, historic charm, and lovely corners at every turn. Here are some of the most beautiful and iconic streets and squares you won’t want to miss:
- Place Saint-François – the village’s main square, from which you can admire views of the village and surrounding hills. Here, you can find remains of a windmill and visit the 16th-century Saint Francis Chapel with its old cemetery.
- Place Gambetta – a small square at the village entrance, home to the Tourist Office, a hotel, and some restaurants and cafés. It’s a great starting point for your visit.
- Place Poulid Cantoun – one of the most picturesque squares in Bormes, filled with flowers and featuring remains of ramparts and an 18th-century Clock Tower.
- Rue Carnot – main and liveliest street, lined with tall pastel-colored houses, small shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Place de l’Isclou d’Amour – a tranquil little square with a historic fountain, surrounded by cuberts (covered stone passages), colorful flowers, and wonderful views over the village, sea, and coastline.
- Place Pouverin – a quiet, flower-adorned square, surrounded by colorful façades and featuring relics of the village’s successful agricultural economy (a stone mill and the remains of an old olive oil mill).
- Rue Rompi Cuou – commonly known as the ‘ass-breaker street’, leading to the lower part of the village via 83 steps. It’s filled with small art galleries, covered stone passages, and plenty of blooming flowers.
These are just some of the village’s highlights. Be sure to get lost in its maze of streets and let your curiosity guide you. You’ll likely come across even more secret corners, hidden terraces, and flower-filled alleys. It’s definitely one of the very best things to do in Bormes les Mimosas France!
Viewpoint over Bormes les Mimosas
For the best panoramic views of Bormes village, head just below Place Saint François where you’ll find a spacious terrace overlooking the village and the surrounding hills. Trust us, you don’t want to miss this spot – the view of Bormes les Mimosas from a distance is absolutely stunning and captures its charm well.
Here, you’ll also find the “Bormes les Mimosas” sign, which, together with a scenic backdrop, makes it a perfect spot for photos. This is one of the most Instagrammable places in the village and a must-stop for visitors, making it one of the top things to do in Bormes-les-Mimosas, especially if you’re chasing beautiful views and memorable moments.
Saint-Trophyme Church
Saint-Trophyme Church was built in the late 18th century in a Romanesque style, replacing the older chapel within the castle grounds that became too small for the growing village. It’s located in the heart of Bormes-les-Mimosas, right at the beginning of Rue Carnot, making it easy to find during your walk through the old town.
The church is modest yet elegant, with a distinctive bell tower that’s visible from many places around the village. It’s a lovely spot to take a break from the exploration and enjoy a moment of tranquility.
Castle of the Lords of Fos
Castle of the Lords of Fos (fr. Le château des Seigneurs de Fos) is located at the highest point of Bormes les Mimosas. It was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and once served as the seat of the counts of Provence. It has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1931.
Unfortunately, the castle isn’t open to visitors. But it’s still absolutely worth the walk! You can wander around its perimeter and enjoy one of the best viewpoints in Bormes with magnificent views over the village, Mediterranean coast, and the nearby island. The path is a bit steep, but the views make it one of the most rewarding things to do in Bormes les Mimosas.
Museum of History and Art of Bormes
Are you into art and history? Then one of the best things to do in Bormes les Mimosas for you is visiting the Museum of History and Art (MHAB). It’s located at the far end of Rue Carnot in the building of the old Town Hall, which also served as a school, prison, and courthouse back in the 18th century.
Inside, you’ll find a collection focused on 19th- and 20th-century artists who lived and worked in the region, alongside exhibits that showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of Bormes. One of the museum highlights is the HistoPad, an interactive tablet that takes you on an immersive journey through 2400 years of history with realistic reconstructions.
Entrance to MHAB costs €8.5 for a normal ticket, €6.5 for a reduced one, and it is free for children under 7 years old (July 2026). For current prices, opening hours, and online tickets, visit the musee-bormes.com website.
Botanical Gardens
The village is also home to several beautiful gardens. The most popular one is Gonzalez Park, a botanical garden dedicated to Australian flora. It features over 500 plant varieties from around the world, including numerous types of mimosa. It’s a peaceful place to relax that earned the ‘Remarkable Garden’ title in 2015.
Cross the road and you’ll find yourself in Cigalou Park, extending across hillsides with pergolas, eucalyptus-lined paths, century-old cedars, and palm trees. It’s another wonderful place to enjoy nature and take a quiet break.
Bormes seaside areas
If you have more time to spare, don’t miss the coastal side of Bormes les Mimosas which is home to beautiful beaches, peaceful coves, and even the French President’s summer residence. We didn’t get to explore it all ourselves, but it’s definitely worth adding to your list.
Bormes beaches
If you’re looking for a moment of seaside relaxation, Bormes has a beautiful 17 km stretch of coastline with sandy beaches and hidden coves. La Faviere Beach is the most popular, offering fine sand, clear waters, and plenty of facilities. For a more peaceful experience visit Estagnol Beach known for its white sand and shady pine forest. Other nice beaches include Cabasson Beach (which offers views of Fort Brégançon) and Pellegrin Beach.
Fort de Brégançon
Just a short drive from the village, on a 35-metre-high rocky peak, you’ll find 15th century Fort de Brégançon. It was originally built as a defensive stronghold and since 1968 has served as the official summer residence of French Presidents.
Fort de Brégançon isn’t open for visitors all year-round, but it can be visited during certain periods through guided tours organized by Bormes Tourist Office. For more information, visit the bormeslesmimosas.com website.
How to get to Bormes les Mimosas, France?
Bormes les Mimosas is located about 40km from Toulon, 35km from Saint Tropez, 30km from Port Grimaud, and 20km from Hyeres. The most convenient way to get to Bormes is by car, either yours or rented.
Parking in Bormes les Mimosas
In Bormes les Mimosas it’s best to leave your car in the town’s main paid parking lot – Parking Saint François, located just below Saint François Square and a few steps from the entrance to the village.
To Bormes les Mimosas by public transport
Public transportation to Bormes-les-Mimosas is somewhat limited and might be tough, especially outside the high season. The fastest, and actually the only, way of getting directly to Bormes is by bus. You won’t have too much trouble with it from nearby towns like Toulon, Hyeres, or Saint-Tropez. To learn more about bus connections that might interest you, visit the regional transport website Zou or rome2rio.com website.
As for trains, unfortunately, there is no train station in Bormes. The closest one is located in Toulon, about 40 kilometres away, and from there you can take a bus or taxi to the village. To learn more about train connections that interest you, visit the sncf-connect.com or rome2rio.com website.
Camping in Bormes les Mimosas
If you’re traveling by camper, places like Camp du Domaine and Caravaning Saint Clair might interest you. They are located very close to Bormes village.
Visiting Bormes les Mimosas, France- Summing up
As you can see, Bormes-les-Mimosas truly deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France. It’s more than just a pretty village – it’s a place that enchants you with colors, scents, and scenic views. Bormes may not be the most famous stop along the French Riviera, but that’s exactly why it feels so special.
We hope our guide to things to do in Bormes-les-Mimosas has inspired you to visit this beautiful corner of southern France. Enjoy your time!
Our opinion about Bormes les Mimosas
For us, a visit to Bormes les Mimosas village was a day trip from nearby Bandol, where we lived for a few weeks. We visited it in mid-November, and during that time, the town was incredibly peaceful with only a handful of other visitors around. Exploring everything we wanted took us about 3 hours.
Although we were in Bormes in late autumn and couldn’t see the mimosa in bloom, we still really liked the village. Actually, it even exceeded our expectations! We loved how authentic and tranquil it felt. Bormes isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another but about slowing down and enjoying the moment.
We really liked strolling around the medieval streets and admiring views. We can only imagine how magical this hidden gem on Cote d’Azur must be during the blooming season! Hopefully, we’ll return one day to see it in full color!
Restaurants, accommodations, and map
Check out various recommended places below.
Where to eat in Bormes-les-Mimosas?
Here are your best, high-rated options in Bormes-les-Mimosas:
