The Tanneron Massif
The Tanneron Massif is the cradle of Mimosa cultivation.
This area is shared between the Var and Alpes-Maritimes departments. Mimosa can be seen year-round, but is particularly beautiful from mid-December to March, the flowering season. The Tanneron Massif covers more than 5200 hectares, including 1100 hectares in Mandelieu. A remarkable and fragile natural site!
Walking tours
The Grand Duke – the “queen” hike, the unmissable!
Located on the lower slopes of the Tanneron mountain, the Grand Duc communal forest, managed by the French National Forestry Office (ONF), offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Mediterranean. Covering 93 hectares, it boasts some 30 kilometers of marked trails and paths, allowing visitors to enjoy exceptional views of the coastline and discover the unique flora of this massif. Picnic tables are available at the starting points of the hiking loops . It's the perfect route in winter to enjoy the blooming mimosa with family or friends .
Secret walks
The La Vernède walk offers a botanical discovery punctuated by spectacular views of the Mediterranean.
The most curious will be surprised to discover that a stone's throw from Place de Capitou - THE mimosa-growing district of Mandelieu - paths take walkers directly to the heart of the mimosa forest.
Other routes start from Capitou by taking the GR 51, which then leads into the Grand Duc forest. Don't forget to pick up the HIKING BROCHURE: "The 15 most beautiful hikes starting from Mandelieu" – available for €5 at the Mandelieu Tourist Office.
Bike tour
It is another advantage to be able to change the plant decor according to the seasons in this exceptional site.
- Starting point: beginning of boulevard Paul Tarascon
- Point of arrival: entrance sign in the Var department
- This segment is 7.5 km long with 450 m of elevation gain.
Car tour
- Departure to Mandelieu-la-Napoule on the departmental 92 with a view of a magnificent panorama of the coastline, the Lérins islands, Cannes and its surroundings, the Summit of the Alps.
- During the journey, you will enter the forest of Mimosa, in the heart of the Massif.
- Arrival at the village of Tanneron you can visit the “Chapelle ND de Peygros”, the mimosa forcing factories and their local products.
- Resumption of the winding road D38, offering you many panoramas on the oak forest, mimosas, eucalyptus, on the Siagne Valley and the chain of Southern Alps.
- Arrival at Lake of St Cassien for a break of freshness and relaxation.
- Resumption of the road towards Mandelieu-la Napoule via the A8.
