Mougins

Background 

Mougins is perched on a hill a short distance behind Cannes. Surrounded by forests and woodland the picturesque old town was built around the remains of the 14th century fortifications and is now considered to be one of the prettiest villages in the region. The prospering perfume industry of the neighbouring town of Grasse helped Mougins gain fame and fortune in the 19th century, but it was the arrival of the avant-garde painter Francis Picabia in 1924 that prompted the beginning of Mougins’ transformation into a chic destination. Picabia began inviting his acquaintances to the town and over the years Mougins attracted some of the most famous figures of the 20th century including Yves Saint Laurent, Jean Cocteau, Christian Dior and Pablo Picasso, who spent the last 12 years of his life living in a villa on the outskirts of town. Mougins has also developed strong links with the culinary world and now boasts more than 50 restaurants amongst which are some of the top dining establishments in France.