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Molinard: A Perfume Legacy in Grasse

Discover the art of French perfumery at Molinard in Grasse, where you can explore a historic factory, create your own signature scent, and immerse yourself in a world of fragrance and elegance.

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Step into the fragrant world of Molinard, one of France's oldest perfume houses, established in Grasse in 1849. This family-run institution offers a captivating journey through the history of perfume making. Explore the meticulously preserved 19th-century factory, complete with a distillery designed by Gustave Eiffel, and discover a stunning collection of vintage perfume bottles. Participate in a hands-on perfume creation workshop, guided by expert perfumers, and craft your own signature scent from a selection of exquisite essences. Molinard provides an immersive and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to delve into the artistry and heritage of French perfumery in the heart of the world's perfume capital. It's a sensory delight and a chance to connect with the timeless elegance of fragrance.

A brief summary to Molinard Grasse Centre

  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Book your perfume creation workshop in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Allow ample time to explore the museum and factory, as there's much to see and discover.
  • Consider visiting during the flower harvest season (May-September) to witness the fields in full bloom and experience the freshest scents.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to reorder your custom-blended perfume online, ensuring you can enjoy your signature scent for years to come.
  • Combine your visit to Molinard with a stroll through the charming old town of Grasse, exploring its other perfume houses and historical landmarks.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Molinard Grasse Centre is located on Place aux Aires, a central square in the old town. From most points within the center of Grasse, including the main bus stops (e.g., Charabot, Avenue Thiers, Centre, Square Du 11 Novembre, Gare Routiere, Grasse Centre Ville) it's easily reachable on foot. Orient yourself towards the old town and follow signs for Place aux Aires. The square is known for its restaurants and shops, making it a readily identifiable landmark. The walk is generally flat, but some streets in the old town are narrow and cobbled.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Gare Routière (bus station), walk towards the old town, following the main road (Boulevard Gambetta) for a few minutes. Turn right onto a smaller street leading towards Place aux Aires. Several bus lines serve stops within a short walking distance of Place aux Aires, including lines 5, 650, 660, F, and 8. A single bus fare within Grasse typically costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Grasse. Request a drop-off at Place aux Aires. Be aware that due to the pedestrianized nature of the old town, the taxi might not be able to drop you directly at the entrance, but rather at a nearby point from which you can easily walk the final few meters. A short taxi ride from the Grasse train station to Place aux Aires will cost approximately €10-€15.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of Place aux Aires is limited due to its location in the pedestrian zone. The closest parking options are Parking Notre Dame Des Fleurs and Parking de la Roque. Parking Notre Dame Des Fleurs is about a 3-minute walk away. Parking de la Roque is about a 5-minute walk away. Parking fees typically range from €1.90 per hour to €12.80 for the whole day. Consider using the Pôle Intermodal parking, located near the train station, and then taking a connecting bus to the city center (€1.50 per ticket).

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Discover more about Molinard Grasse Centre

Molinard Parfumerie, nestled in the heart of Grasse, the world's perfume capital, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of French perfumery. Founded in 1849, this family-run Maison has been crafting exquisite fragrances for over five generations, blending tradition with innovation to create scents that capture the essence of the French Riviera. Hyacinthe Molinard established his small shop in the heart of Grasse to sell floral waters, quickly gaining international recognition. Queen Victoria was among his clientele. In the early 1900s, Molinard moved to its current location, a Bastide Provençale, whose metal framework of the distillery was designed by Gustave Eiffel. This marked a new industrial era for the Maison. The location includes a factory-laboratory, a museum displaying legendary bottles signed by Baccarat, and more. Stepping through the doors of Molinard is like stepping back in time. The historic factory, meticulously preserved, offers a glimpse into the traditional techniques of perfume making. Visitors can wander through the original distillery, marvel at the antique machinery, and learn about the intricate processes involved in extracting and blending scents. The on-site museum showcases a stunning collection of vintage perfume bottles, each a work of art in its own right, reflecting the evolution of fragrance design over the decades. Molinard distinguishes itself by offering visitors the unique opportunity to become perfumers for a day. The perfume creation workshops, led by expert "Noses," provide a hands-on experience in crafting personalized fragrances. Participants can choose from a vast array of high-quality essences and learn the art of blending top, middle, and base notes to create a scent that reflects their individual style and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned fragrance enthusiast or a curious novice, the workshops offer an engaging and educational experience. The Molinard experience extends beyond the factory walls. The company also operates a boutique in the center of Grasse, on Place aux Aires, allowing visitors to easily access their exquisite perfumes and related products. This central location makes it convenient for tourists exploring the old town to immerse themselves in the world of Molinard. Molinard's commitment to quality and innovation has earned it a place among the most respected perfume houses in France. The Maison continues to use traditional techniques alongside modern technology to create fragrances that are both timeless and contemporary. From sourcing the finest ingredients to employing skilled artisans, Molinard maintains a dedication to excellence that is evident in every bottle. Visiting Molinard is more than just a tour or a workshop; it's an immersive experience that engages all the senses. The fragrant aromas, the historical setting, and the opportunity to create your own perfume combine to create a truly unforgettable experience. It's a chance to connect with the rich heritage of French perfumery and to discover the artistry and passion that goes into creating some of the world's most beloved fragrances. Beyond the perfumes themselves, Molinard offers a range of related products, including soaps, lotions, and candles, all infused with the Maison's signature scents. These products provide a way to extend the Molinard experience beyond the visit and to bring a touch of French elegance into everyday life. Molinard's legacy extends beyond its commercial success. The Maison has played a significant role in preserving the traditions of perfume making in Grasse, ensuring that this unique art form continues to thrive for generations to come. By opening its doors to the public and sharing its expertise, Molinard contributes to the cultural heritage of the region and inspires a new generation of perfumers. Whether you're a seasoned fragrance aficionado or simply curious about the world of perfume, a visit to Molinard is an essential experience in Grasse. It's a chance to step back in time, to engage your senses, and to discover the artistry and passion that goes into creating some of the world's most exquisite fragrances. Molinard offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of French perfumery.

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