5 superb coastal hikes to discover in western Var

If you are looking for a hike that fully embodies the charm of our Provence Sud Sainte Baume coastline, you have found what you are looking for. This trail is simply a must-see in our region. Connecting Bandol to Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, the path hugs the Mediterranean coast. The result is a walk that allows you to climb to higher ground for simply splendid panoramic views of the sea.

In fact, it all starts at the Bandol harbor. After passing by the pointus (small boats typical of the area), you will cross the beautiful Renecros cove and continue along the creeks. Each turn reveals a different landscape: ochre-colored cliffs, pine trees with the sweet smell of resin, and that unique light that makes the sea a deep blue. It is highly recommended that you take the time to observe the local flora and fauna and stop to listen to the lapping of the waves.

Further on, towards Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, the horizon gradually opens up. Small pebble beaches punctuate the end of the route, while the sun highlights the contrasts and the port of La Madrague gradually comes into view... Each season offers its own version of the trail: in spring, nature reveals itself; in summer, the crystal-clear blue sea invites you to take a welcome break for a swim; and in autumn and winter, the soft light of the late season gives this path a peaceful feel...

As an added bonus, this route is suitable for all levels! It allows everyone to fully enjoy the beauty of the coastline, whether it's a serious hike or a family stroll.

For this second hike, we're not going very far and are even staying in our destination of Provence Sud Sainte Baume. We're heading to the other town on our coast: Sanary-sur-Mer.

From the port of Sanary, the coastal path towards Pointe de la Cride invites you to immerse yourself in the Mediterranean atmosphere. From the very first steps, the sparkling waters of the bay and the moored sailboats promise a Provençal setting that is everything you could wish for. The route follows the shore and winds its way between small coves and secluded bays, perfect for a contemplative break or simply to feel the sea air on your face.

Then, the route alternates between wooded parks ideal for families, secluded coves, and accessible beaches. The trail runs along light-colored cliffs and crosses fragrant scrubland dotted with pine trees that offer welcome shade, especially in summer. The advantage of this walk is its direct proximity to the sea. We walk along it, follow it and sometimes even brush against it to take a path paved with beautiful views. It's the ideal route for taking breaks to admire the sailboats in the distance and feel the Mediterranean vibrate under the Var sun.

As you walk along, the panorama opens up onto the sea and the Var coastline, offering a view that is both breathtaking and peaceful. This route, which combines authenticity and natural beauty, is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy an accessible and memorable hike, with the opportunity to stop whenever you like to admire the sea or immerse yourself in the tranquility of the coves.

Finally, the end is approaching. The Pointe de la Cride comes into view. This headland jutting out into the sea is a former military stronghold. That said, it's not its historical significance that interests us, but rather what it has to offer in terms of... views. From here, you'll have a breathtaking view of Bandol as well as the horizon. This is how you end this beautiful coastal hike, with the sea air filling your lungs with invigorating energy.

This excursion is perfect for a family getaway or an outing with friends, with the option of alternating between walking, picnicking, and swimming, depending on the season and your preferences.

Now let's head to one of the largest towns in the Var department, Toulon. However, you'll see that the walk we're suggesting is far from urban. In fact, it shows that the city and nature can coexist harmoniously. Following in the footsteps of smugglers, this cliffside trail offers one of the most beautiful views of Toulon harbor, the Giens peninsula, Cap de Carqueiranne, and Saint-Mandrier. And it all starts at what is known as the Tour Royale...

From this fortified-looking spot, the panorama unfolds before your eyes: the bay of Toulon, the sea, and the horizon. You can enjoy this unique view before the trail descends into more... untamed areas.

All along the way, secluded coves and beaches follow one another, tempting you to take a dip or at least enjoy some lazy moments in the sun. The pine trees and coastal flora provide shelter from the heat, the cicadas sing (in summer) and the sun's rays sparkle like diamonds on the sea. This is the atmosphere you will find along the 11 kilometers of this gentle hike.

The end of the walk, towards Anse Magaud, reveals unspoiled and less frequented landscapes, offering a moment of true serenity just a stone's throw from the city. An ideal experience for those who want to combine nature, the sea, and views of the famous Toulon harbor.

Everyone in the area knows the Giens Peninsula. While many people know it as the departure point for ferries to Porquerolles Island, those in the know realize that this area hides a completely different treasure: its natural beauty. 

The coastal path on the Giens Peninsula is a must for anyone who wants to combine hiking with spectacular scenery. The trail runs along cliffs and coves with turquoise waters, offering picture-postcard views.

Here, the variety of views is remarkable: at every turn, your gaze discovers a new beach, a sparkling channel, or the famous Îles d'Or of Hyères in the distance.  Imagine pine trees bent by the wind, small houses with red roofs peeking out from the green forest, waves gently but surely crashing against the rocks... You can almost hear the singing accents of the locals!

A hike suitable for all levels, allowing you to enjoy a whole day on the coast, punctuated by breaks for swimming and contemplation, with a perfect balance between effort and pleasure.

The best for last. This final hike is a gem. A more secluded and unspoiled trail, less well known than those mentioned above... The Pradet coastal path is quite simply a real treasure. 

It all begins in a setting worthy of the most beautiful paradise islands: Pin de Galle beach. A modest-looking cove, with old cabins as a backdrop and sparkling sea. Whether it's the nature, the climate, or even its intimate atmosphere, everything invites you to spend the day admiring this stretch of coastline. And yet, the route gets even more beautiful further along. All the way to the Garonne, this golden sandy beach in the Toulon region, you alternate between wild coves, sculpted rocks, and Mediterranean vegetation.

Throughout the trail, the panoramic views change with every step. Turquoise waters blend with pine trees, offering a variety of colors and atmospheres. This trail allows you to reconnect with nature and enjoy an authentic, less frequented, but equally spectacular coastline.

Accessible all year round, it offers the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll, stop to watch seabirds, or settle down in one of the secluded coves for a refreshing swim.

We have just shared our favorites with you. Our five favorite hikes in western Var. Five trails that allow you to discover the diversity of our region's coastline: from iconic routes to secluded coves, spectacular panoramas to peaceful and authentic atmospheres. Each trail tells a story, that of the splendor of the Mediterranean and the gentleness of Provençal nature. Whether you are with family, friends, or on your own, these walks are an invitation to explore the Var in a different way, at the rhythm of the sea, in any season.