Castel Sainte Claire

Before it was a castel, Sainte Claire was a convent of Poor Clares erected in 1634 on the western side of the old castle's second enclosure.
In 1849, Olivier Voutier, a naval officer and renowned archaeologist - he was the discoverer of the Venus de Milo in 1820 during a mission to the Cyclades - bought the ruins and had the present building constructed. He led a discreet life here, essentially as a family, and welcomed famous winter guests such as the composer Ambroise Thomas (1811-1896).
In 1927, the Castel was bought by the American novelist Edith Wharton, who had the present botanical garden laid out, with its many exotic species. She lived there for 10 years. During this period, the property became a place of residence for the many Anglo-Saxon writers and academics who made up her entourage. After her death, the Castel changed hands several times until the Municipality purchased it in 1955. It was then put to many uses: luxury hotel, local radio station, insurance company.
Since 1990, it has been leased to the Parc national de Port-Cros, which houses its administrative services.
The garden, with a surface area of 6,500 m2, is located on the heights of the town and enjoys a breathtaking view of the Hyères roadstead. The garden has been awarded the national "Jardin Remarquable" label.