There is something special about celebrating nature's seasonality. Take, for example, the mimosa forests of the Côte d'Azur. For 50 weeks a year, the trees provide shade for people and respite for birds after the long Mediterranean crossing. But for just two weeks or so, each year from late January to mid-February, they have an explosion of bright yellow flowers that transform coastal hills into a carpet of colour and fragrance.
Although not native to Europe, the mimosa tree is perfect for the dry, sunny climate and rocky soils of the Riviera. These trees do not require much water and they retain their leaves year-round. Their flowering season is short, but spectacular.
The Mimosa Trail is a series of wild forests, ordered plantations, and suburban parks and gardens, stretching from the town of Mandelieu-La Napoule on the coast, east of Cannes, towards the hinterland hilltop town of Grasse. The route runs through historic villages such as Mougins and Pégomas.
The fragrance of the mimosa flower is subtle but distinctive. It is their vibrant, bright yellow colour, however, that attracts hikers to this trail every year in late Winter. The small, round yellow flowers grow in bunches, like grapes, and last for only a couple of weeks before they start to lose their colour, turning brown and eventually falling or scattering in the wind.
The best way to see the Mimosa trail is to head towards the Tanneron nature reserve. Exit the coastal A8 motorway at Cannes, and head north-east on the D3 road. The walking trails around Tanneron and the Siagne river are well signposted. Take a bottle of water, as facilities in the forest are limited, and the Riviera's weather can be quite dry and warm, even in Winter.
You'll be joined by a steady stream of hikers from the Riviera's towns. Seeing the mimosa forests in their full yellow splendour is a popular activity in February. The colours are bound to brighten moods, and to remind everyone that Spring is just around the corner.
Love seasonality? Find out why the Riviera is a year-round destination.
Thinking of your next retreat? Choose the Riviera as your next destination.
Photos: Scorcio.it