Is Bormes-les-Mimosas the Hidden Gem of the South of France?

Jan 25

After a splendid time in Mallorca, our Virgin Voyages Barcelona to Civitavecchia cruise made its next stop in Toulon, France. Located on the French Riviera, Toulon is renowned for its significant naval base and large Mediterranean port. It is also historically notable for the siege of 1793. Eager to explore beyond the bustling port city, we opted for an excursion ("shore thing" in Virgin lingo) that promised a mix of history, nature, and culture:

"A Village, Vineyard and Views."

Book this Shore Thing

TravelMore Tip: Toulon is not available right now for future ports, however it is very close to Marseille, so you can easily have a similar experience.

First Stop: Bormes-les-Mimosas

After arriving in the South of France, we exited our boat and boarded a large tour bus to start our journey. The bus was nice and air-conditioned, and our local guide shared details about the region during the ride. This adventure took us through the scenic Massif des Maures—a rugged mountain range cradling the azure Mediterranean as we headed to the small village of Bormes-les-Mimosas!

Medieval Charm and Scenic Splendor

Bormes-les-Mimosas was quite simply, charming. This medieval village, not related to the popular brunch cocktail despite its bubbly-sounding name, clings dramatically to a mountain slope. As we arrived in the town center, we were welcomed with a lovely market full of vendors and tents selling everything from local meats, cheeses and olives, to home made jewelry and crafts.

We meandered through the steep cobblestone streets, soaking in the rustic charm and sun-drenched vistas that define Provence. The walking tour offered us a glimpse into the timeless lifestyle of the village, with its floral-laden balconies and quiet, sun-dappled squares.

We grabbed some cappuccino and biscotti at a local café and sat on the patio to wait for the other group members before loading back up and heading to a wine tasting!

A Taste of the Provençal Countryside

Next, a short drive brought us to Domaine de l’Anglade, a picturesque vineyard and winery nestled within the Provençal landscape. Here, we delved into the world of winemaking during a comprehensive vineyard tour. Surrounded by rows of lush vines, we learned about the grape varieties unique to this region and the intricate process of wine production.

The highlight was undoubtedly the wine tasting session, where we sampled several of the estate’s finest wines - they are known for their Rose. Paired with an assortment of local snacks—savory tapenades, crisp baguettes, and regional cheeses—the flavors of France truly came to life.

Why This Excursion?

This excursion is a perfect choice for those looking to experience a slower, more immersive travel pace. Away from the typical tourist paths, Bormes-les-Mimosas and Domaine de l’Anglade offer a genuine slice of French country life that is both enriching and relaxing.

Final Thoughts

As we journeyed back to Toulon, the serene beauty and the rich tastes of the day lingered on. This tour not only highlighted the diversity of the French Riviera but also reminded us of the value of exploring the less-trodden path.

Ready to experience The South of France with Virgin?

Contact us today and let’s plan your dream vacation! Whether you’re visiting iconic landmarks, savoring authentic cuisine, or exploring hidden gems, we are here to help you create the perfect itinerary. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime—book your trip now!