11/01/2023
Activities
Nature is all around in the Var: the region’s forest massifs and wooded areas cover over 2,500 hectares of unspoilt woodland. Come and enjoy the massifs on a family walk, a more athletic hike or with friends: you'll get an immense feeling of discovery, freedom and communion with nature.
Among the not-to-be-missed activities in the Var are, of course, the countless hiking trails through the Var mountains. There are short, easy family walks where you can discover a village; or perhaps you would prefer a full-size, day-long loop exploring a path along the coast. In short, the Var mountains are packed with natural treasures that will appeal to sports enthusiasts and families looking for a quiet getaway. In the Var, you have a range of hikes to choose from so you can get to know this magical part of France.
Whether you choose the Maures Massif for its diversity, Sainte-Baume for its spirituality, or the Esterel for its harmony between nature and leisure, each of these hikes in the Var promises you a one-off adventure with a wide range of things to do.
The Massif des Maures is one of the most majestic landscapes in the Var – a playground like no other for anyone who loves to go hiking. With its green hills, picture-postcard valleys and shady hiking trails, this massif will tempt hikers of any level to venture into the pristine forest.
Hitting the trail from the Massif des Maures, a number of different routes stretch out in front of you, ranging from family-friendly paths to tougher trails. The rich Mediterranean flora is all around you, with species such as cork oak, fragrant maquis and umbrella pines.
The standout routes include the hike leading to the summit of Gros Cerveau: rising to a height of 811 meters, the panorama here is jaw-dropping. The wide expanse of the Mediterranean coastline unfolds in front of you with breathtaking views of the sea, contrasting with the peace and quiet of the surrounding forests. At the start, the map offers you the choice of the blue trail (8 km with 300 m of climbing on a loop taking an average of three and a half hours) or the red trail (13 km with 700 m of elevation for a loop of about 6 hours).
Lodged between the earth and the sky, the Sainte-Baume Massif is one of the Var’s most important heritage sites. This massif, home to the cave of Mary Magdalene, attracts hiking enthusiasts not just because of its natural beauty but also thanks to its spiritual dimension.
The trails over the Sainte-Baume massif lead you through forests of holm oaks and pine with superb views over Provence. Hikers can choose from a range of circuits suitable for every level to help them explore the unspoilt landscapes and historical remains that are dotted along the trails.
The cave of Mary Magdalene, a major pilgrimage site, is accessible via a winding path. As walkers make their way here, they discover a site steeped in history and spirituality. The spectacular views along the way add a contemplative aspect to this one-of-a-kind adventure.
For a hike that combines exploring nature and leisure, the Esterel Massif is an ideal place to visit. With its characteristic red hills, secluded coves and coastal hiking trails, this massif is a wonderful getaway with a harmonious blend of relaxation and sightseeing along the shoreline.
The trails over the Esterel Massif weave their way through a landscape of striking contrasts. Hikers can explore hidden coves, unwind on the beach, bathe in the crystal-clear water and revel in the panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean. The park’s red rocks create a spectacular backdrop – an idyllic setting for a well-deserved break.
The Cap du Dramont trail is a memorable experience. Starting from a beach in Saint-Raphaël, this coastal hike takes walkers along craggy cliffs with breathtaking views of the sea. The secluded beaches below are just right for a relaxing interlude so that hikers can revel in the view thanks to the natural beauty of the Var.
