guide
The Var can be discovered through its typical villages such as Saint-Tropez, Hyères and Bormes-les-Mimosas, its cultural sites such as the Fréjus episcopal group or Le Thoronet abbey, and its natural landscapes around the Verdon Gorge. Hiking, beaches, marine parks and Provençal cuisine round out this overview of the department's must-sees.
Unless you actually move to the Var, your biggest challenge will be narrowing down which sights and activities to enjoy. Why not choose one of the wonderful seaside campsites and take the time to explore this coastal department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur ?
Here is a small selection of destinations and visits to plan into your itinerary.
The Var is full of typical villages and towns with plenty to see.
Gassin, Tourtour, Seillans, Bargème… the list of charming villages in the Var goes on.
Your route should include at least the following:
Follow the Route de la Corniche Sublime, which lives up to its name. It starts at Comps-sur-Artuby and winds its way along the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon. Plan a few stops at the Balcon de la Mescla and the Pont de l’Artuby to admire the breathtaking panorama.
The department is home to areas of unspoilt biodiversity. The Parc marin de Port-Cros, off the coast of Hyères, is even the oldest in Europe. Closer to the shore, the island of Porquerolles and the Île du Levant hold some lovely surprises in store.
The Var, bathed in sunshine for much of the year, promises plenty of outdoor activities.
Between its mountain ranges and the Gorges du Verdon, hikers, mountain bikers, and climbing and rafting enthusiasts are guaranteed to find something to enjoy. The Sentier Blanc-Martel (14 km) or the climb up Lachens (1,714 m) are perfect for experienced hikers. For more of a challenge, walkers can take on Mont Vinaigre, the Pic de l’Ours or the Balcons du Cap Roux. Also discover the trails of the Estérel and Sainte-Baume massifs. Walks along the coastal path between Saint-Raphaël and Bandol are truly enjoyable. Canoeists will love the Lac de Sainte-Croix or the stretch between Lac d’Esparron and Lac de Quinson.
The white sandy beaches of the Var are among the finest in Europe. Head for the postcard-perfect scenery of Plage de l’Estagnol (Bormes-les-Mimosas) or Plage de l’Escalet (Ramatuelle). And don’t forget the legendary beaches of Pampelonne and Bonne Terrasse in the Bay of Saint-Tropez. To soak up the sun in complete peace and quiet, head for the islands instead (Porquerolles, Embiez…).
The south of France is inseparable from its colourful, flavourful cuisine. Bouillabaisse, aïoli, tapenade… don’t leave the region without tasting them. Bring home some AOP rosé wines and iconic Provençal products (AOC figs, olives, IGP flower honey, calissons…).
All that’s left to do now is book one of the many waterside campsites in the Var.
Draguignan, Saint-Tropez, Hyères, Gassin, Bormes-les-Mimosas as well as Tourtour and Seillans are among the department's must-sees.
The Route de la Corniche Sublime, with stops at the Balcon de la Mescla and the Artuby bridge, to admire the largest canyon in Europe.
The Blanc-Martel trail (14 km), the ascent of Mont Lachens (1,714 m) or the Cap Roux balconies suit keen hikers, while the coastal path between Saint-Raphaël and Bandol offers a gentler walk.
The Port-Cros marine park, off Hyères, is the oldest in Europe; the islands of Porquerolles and du Levant round out the visit.
Bouillabaisse, aïoli and tapenade, accompanied by AOP rosé wines and local products such as AOC figs, olives and IGP flower honey.