Mimosa Forest in the South of France

Each winter, the southeast of France is transformed by one magical tree...the mimosa. It is a dazzling display, as literally millions of mimosa trees come into bloom. Mimosas have a beautiful perfume...delicate and honeyed - filling the air. 

Last year, we explored Mandelieu-la-Napoule and the year before Bormes-les-Mimosas. We are checking off the route town by town and this year, we went to discover the incredible Mimosa Forest, starting in Tanneron. 

Between the Mediterranean coast and the Esterel mountains, the Mimsa Forest spans several thousand acres across the Tanneron massif. Mimosa is not actually native to Provence, it was introduced from Australia in the 19th century, but it has thrived in the region's mild and temperate climate. 

The village of Tanneron is at the heart of this forest. From here, the trees of golden orbs stretch as far as one can see in every direction. They grow wild here (whereas in some towns along the coast—Mandelieu-la-Napoule, for example, they are cultivated), so exploring the forest is an immersive experience in nature. 

There are many well-marked walking loops of various distances in the forest and the best way to experience the full beauty of these trees is walking among them. 

The mimosa season is short-lived and can vary from year to year, based on winter conditions. Blooms typically begin in January and peak in February. Mid-February is when trees are at the fullest, with the hillsides painted in gold. 

The Route du Mimosa site is a great way to track the blooms if you're planning a trip to the region or to find out more on the specific walking paths and where to start.

Taking in the Route du Mimosa in February in the south of France is a unique and unforgettable experience.