BREAK ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA, IN THE DEPARTEMENT VAR
Expectations vary when you want to make your holiday a success: relaxation, exploration, quality of time spent with family or friends, memorable experiences, discovery of new cultures, stress reduction, adventure. Is all this possible in Hyères? We won’t tell you otherwise: Hyères-les-Palmiers, the Giens Peninsula and the Golden Islands are a wonderful combination of Mediterranean flora, paradisiacal beaches, Victorian architecture, culture, history and Provençal lifestyle.
This section has been developed, without being exhaustive, in order to help you prepare your stay in one of our establishments, camping or renting in Hyères, in the Var. From towns to villages, from beaches to coves, from stalls to markets, from squares to gardens, the programme can be bright, dense, joyful, tasty, educational, instructive, relaxing, refreshing, rejuvenating… Here are some keys to making your holiday a success. Don’t hesitate to consult our interactive map to plan your stay on the Giens Peninsula.
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VAR, A LAND OF DIVERSITY
The department Var is an ideal tourist destination throughout the year due to its pleasant climate and abundance of sunshine. It ranks as the second most wooded department in France after the Landes. There are many opportunities for walks or hikes along its magnificent coastline (432 kilometres of coastline), every day can be an opportunity for a new excursion, with beaches, rocky capes, and superb wild coves that never cease to surprise visitors. For the less sporty, the fine sand invites you to relax during your holidays on the Côte d’Azur (French Riviera), which stands out for its transparent and turquoise waters, creating a real invitation to laziness. In addition, the Var hinterland is not lacking in charm, offering another equally attractive facet of the region.
The many hilltop villages are real picturesque treasures. Walking through their cobbled streets, you can’t help but be charmed by the authenticity of these places: the facades of the old houses, the small squares sometimes adorned with fountains, the remains of ramparts or a castle, and many other curiosities to discover.
The Var department also has exceptional natural sites, such as the spectacular Verdon canyon (Gorges du Verdon), a popular place for kayakers and canyoning enthusiasts, the Sainte-Baume, a place of pilgrimage with the cave that sheltered Sainte Marie-Madeleine during her last years, Port d’Alon with its trap and its coastal path (Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer), as well as the Port Cros National Park, located off the coast of Hyères, with its Golden Islands (Porquerolles, Port-Cros, Le Levant) where pine forests and cliffs abound with wild fauna and flora.
Magnificent beach of tiny pebbles, a great starting point for hiking and snorkeling.
Beach located at the end of the Parc des Chevaliers. Magnificent panorama of the harbor of Carqueiranne.
Small sandy beach accessible from the Parc des Chevaliers, at the western tip of the Giens peninsula.
Small beach accessible from La Tour Fondue following the coastal path (around 10 minutes). Nice panorama of the island of Porquerolles.
This superb beach, sheltered from the winds and facing south. It is reached by the coastal path a few minutes from the Tour Fondue pier (for Porquerolles). The water is turquoise and the sand is quite fine.
Magnificent fine sand beach where the water is shallow, making it possible to walk a long distance. Ideal with children!
Long, narrow sandy beach located opposite a protected bay, ideal for swimming, windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Discover a 100% natural adventure course above the sea. In the red rocks of the Estérel, departing from the small port of Poussaï in Saint-Raphaël.
Natural swimming pool fed by the river “Bresque”. Swimming authorized but not supervised. Pets not accepted.
The coastal path, starting from the east of Argentière beach to Fort de Brégançon, offers you a beautiful 9 km walk with a postcard landscape with the blue of the Mediterranean Sea on one side, the vines of the AOC Côtes de Provence – La Londe on the other.
Archaeological artifacts and prehistoric exhibits in a remarkable museum designed by Norman Foster.
Private castle from the 11th and 17th centuries with its French garden inspired by the designs of Le Nôtre. It is inhabited and richly furnished (paintings, tapestries, period documents). Guided tours.
A discovery trail illustrating the originality of the vegetation, the close dependency relationships between man, the coastal forest, water and the mine. A network of trails allowing the discovery of generous nature and exceptional panoramas on the Giens peninsula, the Hyères islands, the great harbor and the Toulon mountains.
A hermitage whose origins date back to the 12th century, it is still inhabited by a dozen monks. Visible from the outside after a nice walk. Chapel accessible to visitors.
This sporty hike allows you to discover the Aiguilles de Valbelle and its dolomitic rocky peaks which emerge through the oak grove. A site guarded by the Chartreuse de Montrieux, an abbey of Carthusian monks.
Numerous hiking trails are within your reach in this renowned forest, protected for several centuries, exceptional for the variety and quality of silvicultural species. Lovers of ancestral legends and spiritual tourism, take your shoes!
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).
Reach inaccessible places at the foot of the cliffs of the Giens Peninsula, explore hidden coves and sea caves, creating unique memories. Departure possible from many areas (Badine, Almanarre, Tour Fondue, Darboussières, Port Auguier, etc…).
An activity which consists of walking in the water, a relaxing way to discover the beaches of Hyères. Departure from Badine Beach. Photo: (c) Hyères Tourisme
Paddle along the coast at your own pace, while enjoying the seascape. Departure from Beach La Badine.
Paddle along the coast at your own pace, while enjoying the seascape. Departure from Beach La Badine.
Wing Foil is a very popular nautical activity that combines a foil board and a wing kite. You can glide over the water, powered by the wind, while using the wing to control your direction. It’s a unique experience that provides a feeling of total freedom.
For wind and speed lovers, windsurfing is an exceptional option. Hyères is renowned for its ideal wind conditions, making it one of the best places in France to practice this sport, particularly in Almanarre.
Here’s another thrilling option for thrill seekers. With your board and a kite wing, you can soar above the waves, performing spectacular jumps and aerial maneuvers (for the more experienced). Almanarre Beach Kite Zone.
Snorkeling, suitable for the whole family, is a perfect activity for those who want a lighter experience. All you need is fins, a mask and a snorkel to explore the shallow reefs along the coast. You can swim among colorful fish, sea urchins and marine plants while soaking up the sun.
Snorkeling, suitable for the whole family, is a perfect activity for those who want a lighter experience. All you need is fins, a mask and a snorkel to explore the shallow reefs along the coast. You can swim among colorful fish, sea urchins and marine plants while soaking up the sun.
Landscapes worthy of the most beautiful postcards. The turquoise water licks the white sand of the beaches and small coves lined with limestone rock. This exceptional territory offers magnificent panoramas with the Mediterranean in the background. A must in the region, when access to trails and forest areas is authorized (ask our services).
Although located slightly outside the Var, this village is famous for its earthenware and its spectacular location under high cliffs. Photo: (c) Christian Charlier
Known for its medieval architecture and its proximity to the Argens river, it is a picturesque village. Photo: (c) C. MOIRENC / Tourisme Dracénie
A village perched on a hill, with a well-preserved medieval castle and charming streets. Photo : (c) Julien Fordy / OMTAC Grimaud
A medieval village classified among the most beautiful villages in France. Its cobbled streets and stone houses are typical of the region. Photo: (c) Pays de Fayence Tourisme
A charming village perched on a hill, offering spectacular views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Its narrow streets and stone buildings add to the Provençal charm. Photo: (c) OT Ramatuelle
In the city center, the Halles de Toulon have rediscovered their original vocation: punctuating Toulon life around good local products. In this iconic building in the city, 25 independent craftsmen and food traders are reinventing this friendly and warm place to live from Tuesday to Sunday.
Open from May to September, this outdoor amusement park offers classic games and rides for the whole family.
Transform yourself into an investigator in a Victorian atmosphere made of stars and cogs.
Embark on two exciting worlds: “The Execution of Sherlock Holmes” or “The Strange Disappearance of Sam Tucker”.
Put yourself in the shoes of a robber (Le casse du casse), or find yourself locked in a hotel like no other (Hostel).
Family property with an olive and wine-growing past since 1867.
The Martini family is happy to welcome you to introduce you to their estate, the Olive Grove of Moulin de l’Esquirol, located in Le Pradet.
Located in La Moutonne between Hyères, Carqueiranne, La Crau and Le Pradet, the Halles Milona smells of Provence with its warm spirit where it is good to get together!
Located at the foot of Villa Noailles, Parc Saint-Bernard occupies a privileged place and offers a marvelous panorama of the horizon.
Go back to medieval times during a walk in the old town, “Vieux Hyères”. Pass through Porte Massillon and enter this ancient fortified town as far as Place Massillon and the Tour des Templiers which dominates it. Cobbled streets, porches, old doors and flower-filled houses will guide your wanderings in all seasons.
The gentle discovery route “Le Pas de Saunier” was officially inaugurated at the Salin des Pesquiers in Hyères. This 1.6 km long natural trail now allows walkers and cyclists to travel within this exceptional natural site, owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral managed by the Métropole Toulon Provence Méditerranée. Photo: (c) Métropole TPM
Domaine d’Héliopolis, one of the most popular naturist destinations on the Mediterranean coast.
15 hectares dedicated to Contemporary Art. Come and discover a farmhouse blended into the landscape whose exhibition rooms are lit by a water ceiling, surrounded by a garden inhabited by around fifteen sculptures. Photo: (c) Fondation Carmignac / Esprit Parc National
Interpretation Center for the territory of the Port-Cros National Park (permanent exhibition). Remains of a fort dating from the 17th century and offering views of the island of Porquerolles, with beaches nearby.
At the Port du Niel or the Port de La Madrague, boat rental (with or without a license), sea kayaks and paddles!
2 windmills dating from around the 15th century, renovated in 1995. They are the pride of the village and are located about fifteen kilometers from Lake Sainte-Croix.
Hike in the last wild plain of the Var, in the heart of the Plaine des Maures nature reserve.
The permanent exhibition of the Departmental Museum of Var is presented as a naturalist journey to the heart of the department. On two levels, the collections are revealed to let you get closer to the fauna and flora, and understand the eventful geological history of Provence.
Since the opening of Moulin du Haut Jasson in 2004, Olivier Roux has passionately produced exceptional olive oils.
A short walk that can enhance an afternoon, with beautiful panoramas all around Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, and a pleasant route first along the edge of the vineyards, then under the pines, then on a rocky ridge, ending by descending the famous sand hill.
A natural gem of the commune of La Seyne-sur-Mer, Cap Sicié is to be discovered or rediscovered through numerous hiking trails. At the top of the massif, the Notre-Dame du Mai chapel offers the walker a splendid view of the sea and the massif.
The “Maison de la Céramique Architecturale – Terra Rossa” is located in Salernes, a town known for its artisanal tradition of earthworks, in particular the manufacture of the famous terracotta tiles. From a former tile manufacturing factory, a vast ensemble was created, uniting old buildings and new constructions in astonishing harmony.
Confiserie Azuréenne, located in Collobrières, a peaceful village nestled in the heart of the Maures massif, is the capital of Chestnuts! For more than half a century, it has perpetuated the French tradition and ancestral artisanal know-how around chestnuts. Candied chestnuts, chestnut cream, candied fruits, cooking products or other sweets, a multitude of products for gourmands and gourmets.
Natural cave dug by erosion (baumo, in Provençal language), which has become one of the oldest places of pilgrimage in the Christian world: Sainte Marie-Madelaine is said to have lived there for thirty years of her life. The only way is to come on foot. It takes 45 minutes to walk. Pets prohibited.
Mount Faron (Faro in Provençal) dominates with its 584 meters of white limestone the most beautiful harbor in Europe. Far from being the highest point, it nonetheless remains the most famous. At its feet stretch Toulon and the harbor, the coast from the Îles d’Or to La Ciotat, the Mediterranean as far as the eye can see. Access possible by Cable Car (Téléphérique). Depending on your wishes: outdoor activities, visit to the zoo or the Provence Landing Memorial.
Walk in the heart of the Massif des Maures to discover the largest Dolmen in the Var. Orientation table allowing you to discover an exceptional panorama. Regulated access depending on the opening of the massifs (inquire with our services).
This is a collective tomb from the end of the Neolithic (around 2500-2000 BC). This monument is unique because the burial chamber is circular (1.80 meters in diameter).
Created at the end of the First Empire, the National Maritime Museum of Toulon is located next to the Clock Tower of the arsenal. A true memory of the Toulon arsenal of which it preserves the majestic monumental gate (1738), the museum illustrates the maritime tradition in the Mediterranean through an exceptional collection of models of ships and galleys.
Put on your helmet and enter the galleries of the old copper mines. The originality of the Museum is undoubtedly the lively nature of the visit where you can feel life underground and discover the history of miners and mineralogy in a fun and captivating way. A fascinating adventure for young and old. An exceptional site located at the top of Cap Garonne with a panoramic view of the Hyères Islands and the Toulon harbor, and all around numerous hiking trails.
This museum retraces, along a fun tour, the history of bauxite mining in the Var.
A picturesque village nestled at the foot of troglodyte cliffs. It is surrounded by vineyards and has a beautiful shaded square.
In the heart of the Mazaugues forest, a beautiful hike leading to the Pivaut ice house dating from 1880. This heritage, restored by the department, bears witness to an ancestral activity that has now disappeared.
Famous for housing the relics of Mary Magdalene, one of Christendom’s most revered saints. As a result, the basilica attracts pilgrims and lovers of Gothic art. History buffs are particularly interested in the architecture with its extraordinary dimensions of this “third tomb of Christianity”.
This hike allows you to visit the village of Carcès, Lake Carcès and the splendid Caramy Falls. To be done in spring, when the water flow is high.
Lake of Esparron-de-Verdon, with an area of 328 ha, is one of the wildest in Verdon with its landscape of coves and cliffs.
Explore this 2.6 km round trip route near the town of Callas. This easy route is a very popular place for walking, so you will probably meet people during your excursion (ideal in spring or late season, as summer is often dry). Dogs are welcome and can be let loose in certain areas.
On the borders of Provence, Saint-Tropez charms with its colorful little port, its old town, its fine sandy beaches and its shaded coves. Renowned for its jet set evenings, the city is also a concentrate of history and culture, the incarnation of a glorious past : Citadel, Annonciade Museum, Museum of Gendarmerie and Cinema… Photo: (c) OT Saint-Tropez
An oasis of greenery and freshness, crossed by the Argens, this site is renowned for its cliffs among climbers, and for its ecological qualities. The walk leaves the small village of Châteauvert, runs along the Argens to discover this magnificent valley.
Educational refuge which allows visitors to contemplate around fifty species of turtles resulting from abandonment or administrative seizures, in an area close to their natural environment.
On more than 5 hectares, come and discover many species of rare animals and exotic plants.
Welcome to Domaine du Rayol, a protected natural area of 20 ha, owned by the Conservatoire du Littoral, at the foot of the Massif des Maures and facing the Hyères Islands, in the Var, between Le Lavandou and Saint-Tropez.
This Cistercian monastery built in the 12th century is renowned for its very particular acoustics and is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture in Provence, sober and elegant. Peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.
Whatever the season, the town of Castellet offers, under a generous sky, the riches of its centuries-old heritage, the flavors of its land, the shade of its squares, alleys and the authentic charm of its different hamlets.
Nestled in the foothills of the Verdon at an altitude of 600 meters, Ampus, a village of character, reveals itself and the Provençal soul appears obvious. An invitation to stroll along the water path then the stations of the cross before taking some time in one of the village squares.
This monastery belongs to the Carthusian order. Founded in the 13th century, it is renowned for its isolation and tranquility. The Chartreuse, also called Notre-Dame de Clémence de la Verne, is a place of spiritual retreat and meditation, attracting visitors in search of calm and spirituality.
Set off to discover 2 magnificent waterfalls in a setting worthy of the greatest adventure films.
Housed in the Villa Jules Verne, which was occupied by Jules Verne’s son and grandson, the museum presents collections acquired in China, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia and India by French collectors, often sailors. Toulon, and which were bequeathed to the City of Toulon. Free entrance. Photo : (c) Annabelle Lhuillier-Bonnal
Embark on a guided tour of Toulon harbor, the most beautiful harbor in Europe, you will discover a large part of the buildings of the National Navy.
The largest market in Provence in the heart of the city: fruits, vegetables, flowers, textiles…
The Cours Lafayette market, 1 km long, is in itself a place to stroll and discover the Provençal atmosphere! All year round, producers and retailers are the daily meeting place of Toulon residents to delight our taste buds! Cours Lafayette and Rue Paul Lendrin (“petit cours”), Place Louis Blanc, Rue de Lorgues and Place Paul Comte.
This medieval village is famous for its picturesque streets and flower-filled houses. It also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Photo : (c) Guillaume Roumestan / OT Bormes-les-Mimosas
A precious stone set in rock, Bargème is perched in the sky at nearly 1,100 meters above sea level. From this eagle’s nest we discover an unforgettable panorama. Dominated by the silhouette of a Romanesque church and the ruins of a feudal castle, this “Village of Character” made entirely of stone has retained all its character. Photo: (c) Alain Vert
Villecroze has retained its medieval village spirit with its arcades, narrow streets, fountains and church. To the north of the village stands a cliff from which a 35 meter high waterfall flows which waters the Grottes garden and overlooks a magnificent 2.5 hectare park.
Nicknamed “the village in the sky”, Tourtour is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the Provençal countryside.
La Garde-Freinet, nestled in the heart of the Massif des Maures overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, has managed to preserve its authenticity. It is accessed by picturesque roads winding through wild and lush nature. At the bend of the streets, the old wash houses and fountains are reminders of the past. The village is also a wonderful starting point for hiking, horseback riding or cycling. Photo: (c) E. Bertrand
City of Art and History. Immerse yourself in the heart of the Côte d’Azur where the Mediterranean and Provence come together to make you experience unforgettable moments.
Magnificent modernist villa located in Hyères. Museum dedicated to design, architecture, fashion and visual arts.
Experience a refreshing and bucolic interlude in this remarkable garden.
Continue your historical walk towards the ruins of the Château d’Hyères… Walk the paths laid out under the trees, pass through the ruins, towers and ramparts to the observation tables, from where the view is breathtaking over the city, the Giens peninsula, and the three Golden Islands.
A new place of art in the Var, a springboard on the sea, a museum to share. Open from May to September.
Underwater, just a few meters from the shore, and at a shallow depth (6 meters), the route is marked with explanatory leaflets. Amphorae discovered on the wreck of the Madrague, found in the early 1970s in Giens, have been re-submerged. The remains were installed on the edge of Pointe du Bouvet, thus forming an archaeological underwater trail. Photo : (c) Hyères Tourisme
Fancy a snorkeling excursion back in time? The Roman quay is there… and nearby, the wreck of a Tartane, loaded with blocks of stone, all guarded by local fauna. Start of the trail, Almanarre beach, near the sailing club. Return via a fossil beach colonized by sea anemones. Photo: (c) Arevpam / Port-Cros National Park
Discover the ancient Greek city of Olbia, central point of maritime trade in the Mediterranean more than 2,400 years ago. Free or guided tours.
In the city center, Tuesday and Saturday mornings, Avenue Gambetta, or Thursday mornings from May 1 to September 30, Place Clémenceau
Small public garden with artist’s studio, which offers a magnificent view of the open sea, the islands and the infinitely blue sea to the South, and of the bay of Almanarre, the beaches, the salt marshes and the town of Hyères as a whole in the North.
Discover the eastern part of the Giens peninsula by walking the coastal path.
Discover the western part of the Giens peninsula by walking the coastal path.
La Petite Flottille, at the Port du Niel or the Port of La Madrague, boat rental (with or without a license), sea kayaks and paddles !
The Club Espace Mer invites you to discover the seabed and the coast of the Giens Peninsula by scuba diving or snorkelling.
Speedkart is a giant amusement park dedicated to the world of motorsport. Challenge yourself with many activities for young and old: karting rental, mini motorbikes, quads, electric cars…
Immerse yourself in nature ! Ecopark Adventure – La Castille offers 10 tree climbing courses and more than 200 workshops for all ages.
Îles d’Or Evasion, boat trips departing from the Port de la Tour Fondue. Discover the coast of the Presqu’île and Porquerolles with Julien !
Locabike offers the rental of bicycles, mountain bikes, electric bikes (adults, children) and carts, allowing you to discover the wonders of the Giens Peninsula and its surroundings.
The Mfkite kitesurfing and wingfoil school is located in La Madrague and offers lessons on the Bay of Almanarre, known worldwide for its regular wind conditions and sunshine.
Located on the western tip of the island, Langoustier Bay offers wild landscapes and two beautiful beaches spread out on either side of its isthmus.
This magnificent garden brings together plants adapted to the climate and spectacular plants from the four corners of the world: South Africa, Australia, South America, South East Asia, and Florida. Photo : (c) Port-Cros National Park
200 meters from Fort Sainte-Agathe, the Moulin du Bonheur came back to life in 2007 thanks to the initiative of the “Safeguarding the Heritage of Porquerolles” Association and the Port-Cros National Park, owner. Photo: (c) Hyères Tourisme
known as “Le Château de Porquerolles”, today owned by the Port-Cros National Park. Upon arrival at the port, the eye is drawn to the imposing shape of Fort Sainte-Agathe, overlooking the village. Since the Romans, its remarkable location has allowed the simultaneous surveillance of the Hyères harbor and a large area around the village. Paid visit. Photo: (c) Port-Cros National Park
Beautiful secluded tree-lined beach with long stretch of sand and rocks. Photo: (c) Hyères Tourisme
Sailboats dot the clear blue water of this narrow sandy beach suitable for tanning, which also attracts swimmers. Photo: (c) Hyères Tourisme
COMING TO HYÈRES MEANS LIVING IN COMMUNION WITH MAN, LAND AND SEA
Culture is also at the heart of the region’s tourist offer, with numerous museums, historical monuments, castles, ancient remains. The agenda being particularly rich, do not hesitate to consult the many informative sites of the Tourist Offices of the Var (such as Hyères Tourisme) and the festivals organized every week in the surrounding area during the summer period (Midi Festival in Hyères, Apéros Jazz du Provençal in Giens, Jazz in Toulon, Couleurs Urbaines in La Seyne-sur-Mer, Plage de Rock in Grimaud, Festival du Château in Solliès-Pont…).
Discovering the regional culture of the Var in the company of the locals is an authentic and enriching experience. This beautiful region of southern France is full of unique traditions, flavors and customs, and what better way than to share this discovery with the men who are its guardians. Market gardeners, fishermen, winegrowers, craftsmen or simply passionate about their terroir await you during your holidays in Hyères, on the Giens Peninsula.
