House of Paul Bourget / Le Plantier de Costebelle garden

This park, created by Baroness Pauline Husson de Prailly in 1857, is planted with extraordinary exotic species imported from all over the world (Chilean Jubeas, Cypriot Arbutus, Ravena Rivularis, and many more...).
The estate is an important part of the Côte d'Azur's historical, architectural and plant heritage.
Historically, prominent personalities linked to the plantier, as well as their prestigious entourage of wealthy overwinterers, came to enjoy the setting of this magnificent acclimatization garden. Queen Victoria stayed here for 5 weeks in 1892, during her stay in Hyères. Paul Bourget, a renowned writer, made it his home in 1896 and welcomed many writers, including Edith Wharton, Joseph Conrad, André Gide and Henry Bordeaux.
Today, the passionate owners have taken great care to maintain and preserve this magnificent garden as it should be, with its unique original species, as well as the historic residence and adjoining chapel. They offer visitors a personal tour of the garden, lasting around 1 hour, which can be booked in advance.
For garden enthusiasts, this site is also an opportunity to discover a well-preserved and highly protected area for Hermann's tortoise, which is very present in the estate's paths, as your host will show you, much to the delight of visitors.
Reservations required.