In Var, there is a town with 2,400 years of history. This place is Hyères, some twenty kilometres east of Toulon. Known as "the palm tree town", Hyères has lost none of its historical charm. To explore, wander the picturesque side streets of the old medieval town perched on the Castéou hill.

Enter through the Porte Massillon gate, which marks the entrance to the historic centre, then wander around to see old houses with colourful façades, brightly coloured market stalls or a vaulted passage under the old ramparts. At the top of the hill is the castle of the Lords of Fos, built in the 11th century. The town developed around it as time went by. Now in ruins, the medieval fortress offers visitors stunning views over the Bay of Hyères and the Maures Massif!

For a well-deserved break, head to the beautiful Place Massillon where you can sit out on one of its pleasant café or restaurant terraces.

As far as religious heritage is concerned, you can choose between the 12th-century Chapel of St. Blaise, also known as the Templar Tower, which has been converted into an exhibition space, and the 13th-century Church of St. Louis in the Romanesque and Gothic styles. Inside the latter are 19th-century organs, a beautiful stone altarpiece, a marble Madonna and a Christ on the cross from the 17th century. The Collegiate Church of St. Paul, meanwhile, is in the Provençal Romanesque style and dates from the 12th century. It possesses one of the biggest collections of ex-votos in the country and is enhanced by splendid stained glass windows and altarpieces.

Hyères also has some wonderful gardens and parks. Don't forget to take a stroll in one of its remarkable gardens, such as the Saint-Bernard Park with its exotic and Mediterranean plant species, located in the heights of the medieval city, or the Olbius Riquier Park featuring colourful flowerbeds, palm trees and exotic plants. You also have the Sainte-Claire Park which overlooks the town, with subtropical species flowering all year round. You'll be treated to many delightful colours and scents! Finally, the garden of the Villa Noailles is a must-see: in addition to its Cubist area and Mediterranean garden, you'll find an avant-garde residence from the 1920s where patterns of cubes mingle with light effects.

South of the town centre, a stone's throw from the sea, the archaeological site of Olbia is the only preserved site of its kind on the Mediterranean coast. An exceptional place, therefore, where excavations have unearthed thermal baths, cobbled streets, sanctuaries and dwellings, and established that the settlement dates back to the 4th century BC. From May to October, put on a mask, flippers and snorkel to explore the underwater archaeological trail and admire the wonders of this protected area!

Continuing eastwards, the Hyères salt marshes promise landscapes of rare beauty. The fauna and flora are particularly abundant: more than 200 species of birds and 300 varieties of plants. A joy for nature-lovers…

Finally, to round off your visit to Hyères, head to one of the town's pleasant beaches. The long, beautiful expanses of fine sand, like those of L'Almanarre or La Capte, are ideal for swimming and sunbathing!

Linked to the mainland by two 5 km long sandy inlets called tombolos, the Giens peninsula is a must-see if you are spending time in Var. This little stretch of land offers an array of wild coasts, coves, beaches and pine forests. It's a very pleasant place to take a stroll and soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. Walk around the charming Provençal village of Giens, linger in the picturesque and traditional little harbours like Port du Niel, or enjoy a variety of activities in or on the water. Known for its long, sandy beach and regular wind, the famous Bay of L'Almanarre is particularly popular with kitesurfers. Sheltered from the Mistral, La Capte beach will delight families with children, with its fine sand and shallow waters making it ideal for bathing!

Surrounded by the two tombolos, the salt marsh and pond of Les Pesquiers are home to a bird sanctuary populated by migratory species. Binoculars at the ready! When it comes to walks, the coastal path will lead you to the treasures and secrets of the Giens peninsula.

At the very end of the peninsula, at La Tour Fondue harbour, you will find the pier for the Golden Islands of Porquerolles, Port-Cros and Le Levant.

Nestling in one of Europe's most beautiful harbours, Toulon shows the influence of both its medieval past and its maritime history. Let's start our tour with the extremely picturesque old town, which boasts a rich architectural heritage. The typical narrow streets will lead you to the 18th-century Church of St. Louis, with a Neo-Classical façade and a superb cupola with lanterns. Then you will come to the charming Place Puget where the astonishing Three Dolphins fountain stands, covered with lush greenery. A few streets from there, Toulon Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds) is an 11th-century building that was later extended in the 17th century. Its beautiful Classical façade is decorated with Baroque motifs and gives way to an interior that is both Romanesque and Gothic. At a height of 36 metres, its bell tower is crowned by a wrought iron campanile dating from 1740. Continue discovering the city by experiencing all the scents and flavours at the daily market on Cours Lafayette, a must if you really want to immerse yourself in Toulon's Provençal atmosphere. The beautiful opera house overlooking Place Victor Hugo should also be included in your tour itinerary.

Cronstadt quay, running along the harbour and dotted with shops, restaurants and cafés, is a very pleasant place for a stroll. Here you can see the Darse Vieille, the old inner harbour created during the reign of Henry IV, and the new one, the Darse Neuve, built by Vauban at the end of the 17th century. There is also the Royal Tower, a listed Historic Monument that tells a chapter of the city's maritime history. Initially a defensive structure, it later became a prison, then an annex of the National Naval Museum, before it was bought by the city of Toulon in 2006. A landscaped park has been created by the sea to offer a pleasant place to stroll, with a stunning view of Toulon's harbour! Next, why not opt for a guided boat tour of the harbour? On this pleasant boat ride you can learn more about the military port and its impressive ships.

Towering over the city, Mount Faron is a must-see Toulon landmark. This limestone massif culminates at 584 metres above sea level and offers a magnificent view over the rooftops of the maritime city, the immense harbour and the Saint-Mandrier peninsula! To reach the top, climb aboard the cable car and once you get there, follow one of the maintained trails to enjoy the various viewpoints.

Toulon also has several interesting museums such as the National Naval Museum (Musée National de la Marine), entirely devoted to the history of the French Navy and offering a large collection of models and paintings. Entry is via the old Porte de l'Arsenal gate. The Toulon and Region History Museum will take you on a journey through the city's past with its paintings, etchings and old documents. On Mount Faron, the Memorial to the Landings in Provence, inaugurated by General de Gaulle in 1964, tells the story of the Allies' liberation of South-East France in August 1944.

After all those discoveries, take a well-earned rest on one of the city's beaches, such as Plage du Mourillon. Enjoy a spot of shopping on Rue des Arts, with its cluster of art galleries, artists' studios and creators' shops. Finally, don't forget to stop for lunch and sample some bourride, a soup made from aïoli and white fish.

Between land and sea, the charming village of Bormes-les-Mimosas in Var is a visual treat enhanced by colours and fragrances from all over. This old hilltop village dates from the 12th century and reveals many medieval treasures. Wander the flower-filled streets and covered passages, slip down the alleyways, stop for a while on the adorable little squares decorated with fountains, and admire the various views before you. Here, the Golden Islands; over there, Le Lavandou.

Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, the castle of the Lords of Fos also offers a stunning view of the Hyères Islands as well as the Favière marina. The latter is also a lovely place for a seaside stroll. You may also find your way to the Church of St. Trophymus, built in the 18th century and inspired by the Romanesque style, or the Chapel of St. Francis of Paola, another Romanesque-influenced building dating from the 16th century. In the heights of Bormes-les-Mimosas, you can discover the charming 12th-century Chapel of Our Lady of Constance once you have travelled up the old way of the cross starting at the castle. Featuring an orientation table, this site perched at an altitude of 324 metres offers a superb view of the surrounding landscapes.

Hidden behind the pine forests and garrigue scrubland, the coves and sandy beaches await you. A path along the coast will help you discover the wild and unspoilt landscapes. In this area you will find the Fort of Brégançon, summer residence of the Presidents of the Republic.

One of France's official villages in bloom, Bormes-les-Mimosas boasts an exceptional floral heritage. Over 700 plant species have been recorded there including 90 varieties of mimosa. During their flowering period in winter, the village holds a festival in the last weekend in February, the Grand Mimosa Procession, with a parade of magnificently decorated floats!

Between the Mediterranean Sea and inland Provence, more precisely between Fréjus and Hyères in Var, the Maures Massif is a mountain range with a lot to offer visitors. First there are the diverse landscapes of maquis shrubland, stone pines and forests of chestnut trees and cork oaks. All are ideal for a nice walk, bike ride or horse ride. Then there are pretty villages fragrant with the scents of Provence, like Collobrières and La Garde-Freinet. The Maures Massif is also home to abundant protected animal species like Hermann's tortoise. Squirrels, badgers, lizards, tawny owls, Eurasian eagle-owls and peregrine falcons share this preserved environment.

Take the Corniche des Maures, a wonderful road that runs alongside the sea between Lavandou and the Saint-Tropez peninsula. It is dotted with pleasant seaside resorts like Cavalaire-sur-Mer or Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, great places to relax.

Don't forget to travel up to the Signal de la Sauvette, the mountain range's highest point, at an altitude of 776 metres. The view from there over the verdant mountains, the Iles d'Or islands and the Giens peninsula is magnificent! Take the opportunity to visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Angels, located nearby and consisting of a chapel, small convent and cloister.

Surrounded by pine forests and perched proudly on its cliff, La Cadière-d'Azur is a totally charming Provençal village in Var. What does it offer? Its rich medieval past, its location overlooking the Bandol vineyard and its incredible view of the Paluns plain, the Sainte-Baume Massif and the Mediterranean Sea.

Fall in love with its pretty streets, narrow, sloping and adorned with flowers, its old dwellings, fountains, Clock Tower and remains of the ramparts including three doors: the Porte de la Colle, Porte Mazarine and Porte Saint-Jean. The latter dates from medieval times and still has its wooden leaves.

Take a little walk to the 16th-century Church of St. Andrew, whose hexagonal bell tower contains the oldest bell in the department of Var. If you appreciate old buildings, La Cadière-d'Azur also has several chapels.

Along the winding streets, craft shops invite you to discover all the skills of the region. The village is also the starting point for several walks to the heart of the AOP Bandol vineyard.

Perched on a promontory at an altitude of 250 metres, Le Castellet is renowned for its famous Paul Ricard motor racing circuit where prestigious Formula 1 and motorbike races take place. Yet this village in Var has no shortage of charm and offers many attractions. Nestling in the heart of the Bandol vineyard, its medieval, picturesque and authentic character makes it a great place for a walk. Entrance is via one of the two fortified gates, the Portalet or the Grand Portail, then you go along one of the cobbled, flowery streets. Admire the old stone houses, browse the many craft shops, relax on the shady squares and discover some lovely heritage.

The castle, which now houses the town hall, dates back to the 15th century and its esplanade offers a splendid view of the Sainte-Baume Massif and the vineyards below. Not far away, you will find the Trou de Madame, one of the many openings created in the ramparts, whose name means "Milady's Postern". From there you can enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. The Church of St. Saviour dates back to the 12th century.

Nestling between the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and the Maures Massif, Grimaud is a charming village whose medieval character is still very much in evidence. Perched on a hill, the first thing you see when you arrive is its castle. Built in the 11th century, this feudal structure (of which some imposing ruins remain) offers a stunning view of the coast and the wooded hills of the Maures Massif.

Boasting some well-preserved heritage, Grimaud contains a plethora of pretty little cobbled streets in bloom, village squares, archways and restored period homes. In the old village, you can also see the beautiful Church of St. Michael, built in the late 12th century in the Provençal Romanesque style. It houses a fresco from 1850 depicting St. Michael, St. Peter and St. Bartholomew, as well as contemporary stained glass windows made in 1975 by the jeweller Jacques Gautier.

Near the village, starting from the Saint-Roch mill, the path to the Fairy Bridge (Pont des Fées) will delight lovers of country walks, with its peaceful setting and stunning view of the castle!

At the gates of the Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Park, in the department of Var, the little town of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume possesses the biggest Gothic building in Provence! This superb and unusually large monument is the basilica. Erected between 1295 and 1532, it was unfortunately not completed as the portal and bell tower were never built.

Its fame has spread beyond our borders for its crypt contains the relics of St. Mary Magdalene. Yet the basilica also has many other wonders such as a 16th-century altarpiece with 16 panels depicting the Passion of Christ, a carved walnut choir with 94 stalls, and sarcophagi from the 4th and 5th centuries. The monumental organ, built in 1773, has no less than 2,960 pipes.

Monday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
Tuesday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
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Thursday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
Friday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
Saturday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM
Sunday: 07:30 AM – 07:30 PM

Nestling in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Var, Port Grimaud is a wonderful lakeside town and an ideal place to relax. In the '60s, architect François Spoerry began landscaping the marshes in order to build a marina. And what a success it was! It's no surprise that it has earned the "Heritage of the 20th Century" label.

Criss-crossing canals, quays lined with Provençal houses with colourful façades, covered passages, bridges here and there: you stand before an incredible array of architecture. Walk up close to the houses and see how prettily decorated their façades are: trompe-l'oeil frescoes, carvings and other striking details! Inspired by the Camargue style, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi is reminiscent of the Church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer with its solid appearance. Inside, the stained glass windows by Vasarely, depicting the movement of the sun at different times of day, are a curiosity in themselves. The building's other attraction is the view from its bell tower. Up there, a superb view awaits you, including Port Grimaud, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the plain, and in the distance, Grimaud and its castle!

Continuing your walk, you will come to Port Grimaud 2 and Place François Spoerry, where you can see a monumental fountain as well as buildings with white and blue ceramic decorations.

Before you head home, don't miss the chance to board an electric boat in order to admire the charms of Provence's little Venice from a different angle.

Delightful small port, Cassis benefits from an exceptional environment by being situated inbetween the Canaille cape cliff and the famous creeks. It is a really charming place to stay in the summer with its narrow streets and squares, its houses with colourful facades, its quaysides, its lively cafe terraces and its beautiful beaches.

Numerous boats in the Cassis port offer various tours on the sea, in particular to visit the creeks.

The picturesque medieval village of Ramatuelle is a charming and typically Provençal destination in the Var countryside. Perched in the foothills of the Castellas Massif and overlooking the Bay of Pampelonne, it stands out for its tranquillity and authenticity. The village centre is remarkable for its unusual spiral layout. As you walk along the winding streets, you will notice architecture typical of the Mediterranean villages. Admire the succession of porches, passageways, little squares and pretty flower-adorned houses around the craft shops.

Ramatuelle has some interesting sights such as the 19th-century Eiffel steps on Place Gabriel Péri, the old prisons built during the reign of Napoleon III, the 17th-century Font-d'Avaou washhouse, the Chapel of St. Anne and the Church of Our Lady.

In the summertime, the village is busy with various well-known events such as the Ramatuelle Festival, Musiques en Liberté and Jazz à Ramatuelle.

Near Cassis, the Canaille mountain and its scenic Corniche de Crêtes coastal road, majestically overhanging the sea, is an unmissable way to admire the beautiful coastal countryside. The high cliffs that plunge into waters offer wonderful viewpoints of the sea, the islands, the creeks and the coast.

It is on the Canaille cape and at the Grande Tête that the cliffs are the most impressive. Being respectively at 362 metres and 399 metres in height, these two steep cliffs are the highest in France! The vertiginous height takes your breath away! Dedicated viewpoints allow to take advantage of the site.

Aubagne is the clay city par excellence. It is famous for its old pottery tradition that dates from the Gallo-Roman period. In the narrow streets of the town, shops sell Christmas Nativity figures, ceramics and potteries. The terracotta Nativity figurines are made in numerous workshops in the city.

Founded in 1146, Thoronet Abbey in Var is one of three Cistercian abbeys in Provence, along with those of Silvacane and Sénanque.

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean forest, in an isolated spot in the hinterland of the Maures Massif, it is a real architectural gem. It's interesting to note that it was built according to an ancestral technique, which consisted in laying cut stones without mortar. This construction process has helped to give the place a sense of serenity that is very conducive to meditation...

The beauty of the church with its clean lines, the cloister with its twin arches and the chapter house with its sculpted capitals, is particularly striking. Yet that is not the Romanesque abbey's only attraction. Indeed, the acoustics in its church create a very long resonance time - one of the longest in the world! - and make it a major centre for Gregorian chant. The concerts held there are always highly acclaimed.

Monday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM, 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM

Situated between Var and Bouches-du-Rhône, the Sainte-Baume Massif is both a major place of pilgrimage and a favourite site for hiking. In the heart of the massif lies the Sainte-Baume national forest, dominated by a high, rocky cliff. Its landscapes are a patchwork of beeches, maples, Scots pines and lime trees. It's a really nice place to cool down in the summer!

It was in one of the massif's caves that Mary Magdalene spent the final part of her life. Nestling deep in the countryside, this place has now become a sanctuary where the saint's relics are preserved. Many pilgrims travel there for private prayer after walking along a footpath for around 45 minutes.

The Sainte-Baume Massif also enchants nature-lovers and ramblers. Be sure to discover the icehouses, a set of gigantic holes dug into the ground where the water turned to ice in winter. The massif is also suitable for mountaineering: climbers should be sure to take the Pic de Bertagne route in order to enjoy an unobstructed view of the Alps and the sea!

Nestled at the foot of the massif is Saint-Pons forest, in the municipality of Gémenos. It contains many springs and a Cistercian abbey built in the 13th century.

A wonderful setting in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the Calanques National Park is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage. Covering 8,500 hectares, its land portion is spread over three municipalities, which are Marseille, Cassis and La Ciotat, while its sea portion accounts for 43,500 hectares. The only national park in Europe to include land, sea and peri-urban areas, it is a place of incredible biodiversity, with nearly 140 protected terrestrial animal and plant species as well as more than 60 marine heritage species!

The mosaic of scenery contained within this magnificent territory is extremely attractive for visitors who love sightseeing and hikes. Its landscapes are absolutely unique, with its coastal massifs interspersed with calanques (narrow, steep-walled inlets), its submarine canyon, and its many islands, including the island of the famous If Castle, a 16th-century fortress made famous by Alexandre Dumas in his novel The Count of Monte Cristo.

Walking through the Calanques massif is a journey of discovery through breathtaking landscapes, a coastline where urban life is never far away, but where the wild and secret coves alternate with nature trails that offer many wonderful walks. Along the way, you will be amazed by the majesty of these limestone cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. The Calanques of Devenson, En-Vau, Morgiou, Sormiou or Sugiton, to name but a few, are magnificent examples of this. Visiting the Calanques Park is also a great way to experience the joys of swimming in crystal clear waters, admire the local fauna and flora, and enjoy sports activities such as hiking, climbing, scuba diving, kayaking or stand up paddleboarding!