Mougins Côte d'Azur, the village and the artists

What to see in Mougins?

Mougins is undoubtedly one of the most precious gems of the French Riviera hinterland. Located just fifteen minutes from Cannes, this superb medieval village rises elegantly among umbrella pines, centuries-old olive trees, and slender cypresses. Nestled in the heart of a protected environment, surrounded by the vast Valmasque forest park, which covers 427 hectares, Mougins has preserved a remarkable quality of life and natural heritage. From its promontory, rising to 260 meters, the village offers an exceptional panorama of the Bay of Cannes, the Lérins Islands, Grasse, and the Prealps.

Upon arrival, you will be immediately captivated by the authentic charm of its cobbled streets, delicately adorned with flowers and lined with magnificent old houses. The sculpted doorways, the carefully restored stonework, and the elegantly decorated windows bear witness to a refined way of life where every detail delights. On the outskirts of the village, sumptuous properties can be glimpsed, hidden behind vast, lush Mediterranean gardens.

Mougins est également une destination culturelle et gastronomique de premier plan. Le village compte plus de quarante restaurants, dont certains de renommée internationale, deux golfs réputés, ainsi qu’une vingtaine de galeries d’art et ateliers d’artistes. La visite de la vieille cité permet de découvrir ses fontaines, l’église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur, la chapelle Saint-Barthélemy, le Musée de la Photographie et l’Éco’Parc de Mougins. Tout au long de l’année, de nombreux événements animent le village : expositions, festivals d’art, rencontres gastronomiques, marchés provençaux et manifestations culturelles qui renforcent son attractivité.

In Mougins, the excitement of the coast blends harmoniously with the serenity of the hinterland, offering a unique, warm and deeply captivating atmosphere.

mougins cote d'azur visite et découverte

Mougins and the artists

Mougins has long maintained a close connection with artists and leading figures in culture, making the village a renowned source of inspiration. Drawn by the light, the serenity, and the exceptional natural setting, painters, sculptors, writers, and photographers have found a haven conducive to creativity there. Pablo Picasso, who spent the last years of his life in Mougins, perfectly embodies this strong relationship between the village and art.

Mougins was also marked by the presence of André Villers, a renowned photographer and close collaborator of Picasso. Settling in Mougins, Villers produced a significant portion of his work there, developing a unique vision where photographic experimentation engages with the spirit of the place. His internationally acclaimed work testifies to the vibrant artistic scene that once animated the village. Even today, Mougins perpetuates this cultural heritage through its numerous galleries, artists’ studios, and exhibitions, making the old town a true artistic hub on the French Riviera.