Sanary-sur-Mer, an authentic fishing port located in the heart of Provence, on the coast and bordering Bandol, welcomes you with its traditions and gentle way of life.
Sanary-sur-mer

5 good reasons to discover Sanary-sur-Mer

  1. Its authentic pedestrian port and pointus
  2. Its historic center with its colourful alleyways and shopkeepers
  3. Renowned Provencal market (voted "Most Beautiful Market in France" in 2018)
  4. A range of activities by the sea and in the countryside
  5. Its historical and cultural heritage

Provence at the water's edge

A destination on the Var coast. The folkloric spectacle of the "pointus", the famous market, the colorful lanes and shady squares, the restaurants and cafés create a typically Provencal atmosphere. The beaches and crystal-clear waters complete this idyllic picture, offering visitors moments of relaxation and breathtaking panoramas. Sanary-sur-Mer is the perfect reflection of Provence by the sea, combining tradition, conviviality and natural beauty.

The must-haves

The pedestrian port and narrow streets of Sanary-sur-Mer

Discover the shady, peaceful new pedestrian harbor. This emblematic site with its colorful facades (whose built heritage, represented by the Tower of Sanary and the Church of Saint-Nazaire, but also marine, with the traditional pointus) reveals all its splendor and articulates harmoniously with the adjoining public spaces of Quais Wilson and Quais Esménard. Sanary has always been home to a fishing fleet. Indeed, it's not uncommon to see crowds flocking to their stalls along the harbor with their freshly caught fish.

Sanary's narrow streets are an invitation to stroll. Typical of Provencal architecture, they reflect the gentle way of life in southern villages. Numerous stalls, art galleries and restaurants contribute to the liveliness of the historic center.

 

The Provencal market

Don't miss Sanary-sur-Mer's famous Provencal market, renowned for its stalls of fruit, vegetables, cheeses and artisanal products. This weekly event, awarded the title of "Most Beautiful Market in France" in 2018, is a real treat for the senses and an immersion in the local culture of the area.

 

Saint-Nazaire Church

Visit the neo-Byzantine church of Saint-Nazaire, with its cross-shaped plan. It retains its dedication to Saint-Nazaire, a Roman martyr under Emperor Nero. The church is adorned with frescoes by master iconographer Jean-Baptiste Garrigou . These representations, inspired by Romanesque religious art, offer the faithful a highly symbolic approach to the Christian faith. For visitors of all faiths, it's a remarkable hymn to beauty. The church features a majestic organ with 24 stops and 3 manuals.

 

The massive brain

Le Gros Cerveau... This rocky ridge bordering the Ollioules-Sanary plain has always excited the imagination. Classified a natural zone of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest, it rises to an altitude of 446 metres. It offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, from the Giens peninsula to the islands off Marseille, via the splendid bay of Sanary.

Highlights

Christmas lights

Sanary's illuminations transform the town the town into a glittering tableau, adding a touch of enchantment to the Mediterranean atmosphere. The streets are adorned with garlands of lights, creatinga warm atmosphere conducive to celebration. It's in the port that the magic reaches its peak, with the famous illuminated pointus boats. These traditional Provencal boats, moored alongside the quays, are transformed into glittering boats, offering a picturesque and extraordinary spectacle.

 

Sanary under the stars

In summer, under the starry skies of Sanary-sur-Mer, let yourself be enchanted by the concerts of "Sanary sous les étoiles", offering unforgettable evenings... Get ready for unique experiences, punctuated by concerts, art and emblematic celebrations.

 

Saint Peter's Day celebrations

Every year, Sanary's fishermen honor Saint Peter, himself a fisherman and the patron saint of fishermen, to ask his intercession for fruitful fishing and to guard against all disasters. It 's always a convivial and festive occasion, and one that is very important in the eyes of the commune, which works to maintain traditions and, in particular, traditional trades such as artisanal fishing.

 

Just'Rosé Festival

In May, Sanary-sur-Mer celebrates rosé wine with the Just'Rosé Festival. Tastings, entertainment and concerts punctuate this friendly, festive event, which attracts visitors from all over the region.

 

All the highlights in Provence Sud Sainte Baume

 

Sanary-sur-mer in Provence

For further information and to plan your stay

Visit the Tourist Office website!
Sanary Tourism