Castel Sainte-Claire

Castel Sainte-Claire is a villa on a hill near Hyères featuring Mediterranean gardens and remains of medieval city walls on its grounds. The building now houses the administrative offices of a national park and its gardens are open to visitors year-round.

The villa was founded in 1820 by a French naval officer who discovered a famous ancient statue. Later it became the residence of a well-known writer who gave the gardens their current character.

The gardens display subtropical plants and cacti arranged according to a design from 1927 that reflects the vision of its former resident. Walking through different planted areas, visitors can see how nature is cultivated here according to a specific aesthetic.

The gardens can be explored year-round without major obstacles or special preparation. The property sits on a hill, so visitors should expect some slopes when moving between different areas.

The property contains the tomb of a French naval officer, positioned next to a medieval tower. This unusual arrangement connects the site's modern history with its ancient defensive structures.