A Cultural Journey Through the Cote d’Azur
When thinking of the south of France, it’s easy to conjure images of stunning beaches and clear blue waters, but this mesmerizing region has much more to offer. Tucked away among the picturesque landscapes are captivating hilltop villages, each with its own unique charm. One such gem we discovered was the old village of Mougins, a place steeped in art and culture. Mougins is a haven for art enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant art scene with galleries showcasing a myriad of artworks and its streets adorned with beautiful sculptures, all of which contribute to the village’s enchanting allure.
Situated around 15 minutes inland from Cannes, Mougins offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Côte d’Azur. Despite its proximity to popular tourist destinations, Mougins maintains a serene atmosphere, free from the noise and crowds of large tour buses, allowing visitors to truly unwind and immerse themselves in its hidden-gem ambience.
You can pick up a map from the Tourist office to navigate Mougins, but instead, we allowed ourselves to be captivated by the charm of the winding cobblestone streets, pretty squares, hidden passages, art galleries, workshops, boutique shops, fountains, restaurants, museums, churches, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, eventually uncovering everything at our own pace.
One notable feature is the absence of cars in the old part of the village.
Mougins has captivated numerous artists, but Pablo Picasso became the village’s most renowned resident. The celebrated Spanish painter and sculptor spent the final 12 years of his life in Mougins (1961-1973). His home was just a stone’s throw away from Notre-Dame-de-Vie Chapel, and his studio was situated in the heart of the village, in a building that now houses the Tourist Office. This sheds light on why Mougins is so immersed in art and why there is an abundance of art galleries and workshops in this beautiful village.
Mougins is situated in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region in Southeastern France and is a short drive from popular places like Cannes, Grasse, Antibes, and Nice.
The easiest way to get to Mougins is by car. The nearest airport is Nice, about 25 mins from the village. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus connection to the village, so your best option is to take a taxi or get to Cannes via train/bus and then take a bus/taxi to Mougins.
There is a large car park right next to the entrance to the village, which is free.