Culture and heritage
A rich historical heritage
The heritage of Provence Sud Sainte Baume is deeply rooted in history, from medieval remains to traditional architecture. The old villages, with their cobbled streets and stone houses, preserve a timeless charm that reflects centuries gone by. Castles, churches, chapels and other emblematic monuments bear witness to a fascinating past, where every rock is a legend.
Here are the must-see historical visits in Provence Sud Sainte Baume:
- The Tauroentum Gallo-Roman Museum at Saint-Cyr-sur-mer.
- The medieval village of Le Castellet.
- La Maison du Terroir et du Patrimoine de La Cadière d'Azur.
- Château d'Évenos.
- The chapel at Le Beausset-Vieux.
- The Tower of Sanary-sur-mer.
- Saint-François de Sales church in Bandol.
- The Signes witch fountain.
- The Saint-Pilon chapel in Riboux.
Click here to find your historical itinerary:
Ancestral traditions
Traditional festivities punctuate local life and bear witness to Provençal people's attachment to their cultural heritage. They celebrate history, religion and the seasons in a spirit of sharing and conviviality. Period costumes, folk music and ancestral dances can sometimes add a touch of authenticity and gaiety to these celebrations. Each festivity embodies the essence of Provençal identity, combining respect for customs and conviviality.
Non-exhaustive list of traditional festivals in Provence Sud Sainte Baume:
- Fête de la Saint-Éloi in Le Beausset.
- The Santon Fair in Signes.
- Fête de la Saint-Agathe in Riboux.
- The Peony Festival in Évenos.
- The Just'Rosé Festival in Sanary-sur-Mer.
- The Bandol Wine Festival.
- Medieval Days at Le Castellet.
- Fête de la Saint-Jean at La Cadière d'Azur.
- The Pieracci Comedy Festival in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer.
To make sure you don't miss any of them, follow our agenda regularly:
Provençal gastronomy is a fundamental pillar of the region's art of living, combining simplicity and richness of flavor. It is deeply rooted in local produce, such as olive oil, garlic, aromatic herbs and sun-drenched vegetables.
Typical dishes like aïoli, daube or tapenade reflect this generous, colorful cuisine, where each recipe tells a story of transmission and know-how.
Lhe local markets, a veritable festival of flavors, are a meeting place for producers and locals, celebrating the taste and authenticity of Provence.
Discover and taste all the regional delicacies by clicking here...
Craftsmanship is an essential part of Sud Sainte Baume's identity. Each handcrafted object tells a story, blending technical skill with local inspiration. The creators, often proud to perpetuate these ancestral techniques, help preserve the region's cultural roots. Central among them are the santons de Provence, the little clay figurines that populate nativity scenes and represent traditional trades and characters.
Come and meet these regional talents, and pass through their store doors...
Natural wonders
This emblematic mountain is a place of pilgrimage and exploration thanks to its historic caves and panoramic trails. The massif, rich in biodiversity, offers spectacular views of the surrounding region and is a haven of tranquillity for nature lovers.
See all our hiking ideas below:
Our destination is home to several protected areas, including the Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Park. The latter is considered a refuge for local flora and fauna. The park's mountainous and forested landscapes offer numerous opportunities for hiking and nature observation.
To find out more about this park with its many hidden treasures, click here :
The region's beaches, such as Bandol, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Sanary-sur-Mer, offer a wide variety of places to soak up the sun and are ideal for swimming, water sports or simply lazing around!
In Bandol, Anse de Renecros is renowned for its fine sand and crystal-clear sea.
Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, with its Baie des Lecques, is perfect for families thanks to its shallow waters and varied leisure facilities.
Sanary-sur-Mer, meanwhile, stands out for its Portissol beach. Surrounded by pine trees and cliffs, its transparent blue attests to the excellent quality of the Mediterranean.
Find your ideal beach by browsing them all right here :
Provence's small coves and calanques are famous for their rugged beauty and breathtaking coastal scenery.
For those in search of secluded spots, the many and varied coves lining the coastline are ideal. Although some of them are well known, such as L'Anglaise in Bandol or Beaucours in Sanary-sur-mer, take your time to explore the coastline (being careful to drive only on public roads, of course) and find your own little corner of paradise.
And if you prefer wide open spaces, the calanque of Port d'Alon, near Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, is a real gem with its steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Accessible via a picturesque hiking trail, it offers the perfect setting for swimming and snorkelling, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Plan your visit to this coastal wonder:
A long tradition of winemaking expertise
The winegrowing tradition is at the heart of Provence Sud Sainte Baume's culture. Vineyards, renowned for their quality wines, are a central part of the region's heritage. As a resulthe wineries are often housed in ancient buildings, perpetuating traditional winemaking methods while offering unique taste experiences.
This rich agricultural heritage is celebrated through local markets, cellar tours and festivals that punctuate the towns and villages. In parallel, the Maison des Vins de Bandol in Le Castellet plays a crucial role in highlighting the appellation's exceptional crus, while offering tastings and meetings with local winemakers.
Connaissez-vous l’histoire de nos vins ?
A dynamic cultural life
Cultural life in Provence is rich and varied, withevents, festivals and demonstrations celebrating Provençal art, music and gastronomy. Local traditions are alive and well, and are celebrated in events and markets alike, bringing together locals and visitors alike. This effervescence helps maintain a strong link between past and present, while offering visitors an authentic experience.
Don't miss the highlights of our destination:
