This low-lying, ravined mountain range extends to the sea with promontories, deep creeks, headlands and beaches. Its fire-red colours form a striking contrast with the indigo blue of the Mediterranean. The Corniche d’Or coastal road running between Cannes and St-Raphaël is a great way of exploring the area. Mandelieu-la-Napoule, the mimosa capital, Pointe de l’Esquillon and Pointe de l’Observatoire headlands and the small resorts of Anthéor, Agay and Boulouris make pleasant stops along the way.

Reopened in 2008, this museum extends over nearly 3,500m². The extremely modern interior was designed by Frédéric Jung. Highlights include a “scented” video screening; presentation of plants used in the perfume industry; rotating chronological exhibition of the 50,000 pieces in the museum’s collection (of particular interest are Marie-Antoinette’s travel essentials and the game of Koh-Do (literally the “way of the incense”)); plus an impressive collection of bottles.

The Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard perfume factories offer free guided tours in an atmosphere saturated with warm, floral scents. The best time to visit is during the week to watch the production and packaging of eaux de toilette, perfumes and soap first-hand, and see the collections of old bottles and tools.

This museum pays tribute to three generations of Fragonards: Jean-Honoré, the father; his sister-in-law Marguerite Gérard; his son Alexandre-Évarisre; and grandson Théophile. The real painter of the family was undoubtedly Jean-Honoré Fragonard (1732-1806) and you can see a copy of his delicate The Progress of Love here. The original, which was rejected by the Duchess du Barry, is in New York.

The very lively market that takes place in this square sells Provençal herbs and all kinds of lettuce.