DESCRIPTION
On the border with Var, Mandelieu-la-Napoule has definite charm. Nestling between the famous red rocks of the Esterel and Tanneron Massifs with the sea at its feet, the “town of mimosas” attracts visitors seeking the countryside and tranquillity. Its mild Mediterranean climate makes it a choice destination. Backing onto the Massif, Mandelieu also provides a gorgeous panorama from where, in the morning when the weather is very fine, you can sometimes make out the outline of the far-off island of Corsica.
HISTORY
Life in this area started in prehistorical times. However, the history of Mandelieu really begins with the arrival of the Celts in the region. At that time, the Ligurians who occupied the coast willingly greeted this people from the North who brought some useful know-how with them. In this way, the Celto-Ligurians resulted. Next came the Phoenicians, who attempted to obtain a monopoly over the coast. The Celto-Ligurians engaged them in war but were soon subdued by the Romans who were called to the rescue by the inhabitants of Marseilles. These latter were then able quietly to take over the area. Numerous battles and wars followed. Mandelieu and la Napoule, which were two separate towns at that time, were repeatedly destroyed. Only in 1836 did the two towns unite. Gradually, Mandelieu-la-Napoule grew. With the coming of the railway, which was built towards the end of the Nineteenth Century, international aristocracy flocked here. In addition to its natural charm, in particular, its golf course made the town famous. Every year, as the “town of mimosas,” it fittingly celebrates the appearance of the first buds.
ENTERTAINMENT
Mandelieu-la-Napoule puts on the
Fête du Mimosa. every year. Other
events take place throughout the year, such as the
GR51 and a
treasure hunt organised at the Château de la Napoule.
Apart from the
Château de La Napoule which now houses a collection of art open to the public, Mandelieu is also known for its capacity to accommodate ships, being the largest harbour in the region. There is the
Port communal du Riou,
Port de la Rague,
Port Inland,
Port de la Napoule, and the private ports of
Cannes Marina and
Marco Polo. As far as walking is concerned, the town’s setting provides you with lots of options:
sentier botanique (the botanical path) and
natural parks such as the
Parc de San Peyre,etc.
SPORTS
Mandelieu-la-Napoule is known and recognised for
golf. However, its geographical setting (between the Esterel and Tanneron Massifs, with La Siagne and the sea) means it offers many more activities including: sailing, rowing, water skiing, diving, and other
water sports (it has been a "
Station Nautique" since 1987); walking and hiking, climbing... and, of course, tennis and
golf.
LOCATION AND DIRECTIONS
Mandelieu-la-Napoule is located between
Cannes and
Théoule-sur-Mer, close to
Pégomas,
Mougins and
Grasse a little higher up. The town is also halfway between
Antibes and
Fréjus.
By air :
closest airport is obviously
Cannes - Mandelieu. however, it caters mainly for private flights. Otherwise,
Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport is only around 35 minutes away.
By road :
Take exit 40 (Mandelieu-Centre) or exit 41 (Mandelieu-La Bocca) off the A8 motorway. You can also take the RN7 or RN98.
By train :
The closest TGV station is at
Cannes, 7 kms away.
See all Hotels in Mandelieu-la-Napoule.
