Villa Théo in Le Lavandou, French Riviera

Located on the Varoise coast, Villa Théo in Saint-Clair, near the Lavandou hotel, is an exceptional art centre. The former residence of Théo Van Rysselberghe, this historic villa is a cultural treasure of Le Lavandou. Testifying to the artistic, literary and architectural importance of the region, the villa hosts a variety of annual exhibitions. Built in 1910, the house reflects the resort architecture typical of the Côte d’Azur in the early 20th century. Many artists and writers, including André Gide, Matisse and Jean Cocteau, stayed here. Renovated to become an art centre, Villa Théo presents permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Visit the Villa Théo in Lavandou

The Villa was built by Théo van Rysselberghe on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The building was designed by the painter himself and was his home until his death. The Villa Théo, located in Le Lavandou on the Côte d’Azur, has been open to the public since 2007. The site is now an art centre and a place of remembrance. It is also a place of creation and temporary exhibitions of classical and contemporary works.

The artist’s studio has been preserved, and has become an exhibition space on the first floor. The 2ᵉ floor will be reserved to host artist residencies. Painting courses are also organised at this venue in the Saint Clair district, 1.5 kilometres from the centre of Le Lavandou.

The garden of Villa Théo in Le Lavandou has been restored, along with its wash-house. Open-air concerts are regularly held here on a small esplanade set aside for the purpose.

The painters’ path in Saint Clair, Lavandou

In the early 20th century, neo-Impressionism significantly influenced the evolution of painting. In Saint-Clair, near Le Lavandou, two major figures of this movement, Henri-Edmond Cross and Théo Van Rysselberghe, found refuge to work and spend their winters.

Their presence has also attracted many writers. The “Chemin des peintres” offers a 2.5km walk in their footsteps, punctuated by reproductions of their workscreated at the Lavandou. This route, which passes through evocative locations such asAvenue Van Rysselberghe and Rue des Dryades, can be completed in 1 hour or with a guide.

Discover the “painters’ path” and walk the 2.5 kilometres to follow in their footsteps and discover reproductions of their paintings and the seafront overlooking the beaches.

Stay at the Grand Hotel Moriaz in Le Lavandou and discover the Villa Théo. We offer rooms with sea views and a beach reserved for our charming hotel.