The must-haves

Let's start our tour of Provence Sud Sainte Baume must-sees with the pretty coastal town of Saint-Cyr-sur-mer. Popular with sports enthusiasts, sunbathers and nature lovers alike, it's both a beach and a hill that we're particularly interested in.

Baie des Lecques is one of the destination's largest sandy coves. In summer and winter alike, locals flock here to stroll along the seafront, enjoy a brunch on the terrace or indulge in a few water sports. So, whether you're looking for a summer swim or a winter wave, you too can try out all the experiences this mythical shore has to offer.

The other treasure to discover, while sharing the fine sand of the beaches, lies further inland. Curious, isn't it? Go to the sand hill of Saint-Cyr-sur-mer! This particular geology was formed by the mistral wind, which over the years has transported sand from the coast to the surrounding forest. The result: a dune with a direct view of the lovely port of La Madrague and the famous bay of Les Lecques. A great walk for all the family!

Lost in the heart of the Bandol AOC vineyards, the village of La Cadière d'Azur blends charm and authenticity. And it all starts with its history... This is where you'll find the Neolithic remains of our territory. Start your tour at the Maison du Patrimoine et du Terroir, home of the permanent exhibition, and pick up a map of the walk ahead.

The must-see at La Cadière d'Azur is none other than its historical walk. Thanks to QR codes hidden throughout the village's cobbled streets, you can learn more about the past of this typical Provencal village. An ancient feudal castle, emblematic squares and superb churches are all on the program...

For the second essential step in your discovery of the destination, let's head for the vineyards. At the entrance to the village the region's most famous wine cooperative: La Cadiérenne. Since 1929, its owners have been committed to showcasing the work of their winegrowers and sharing the fruits of their labor with you. Here, you'll find some very fine AOC Bandol bottles.

From La Cadière d'Azur, head for the hill opposite to explore the narrow streets of the village of Le Castellet.. This ancient medieval town is a marvel for history lovers.

Encircled by its walls, the perched village is a perfect representation of medieval Provencal sites. Surrounded by well-preserved ramparts, only two gates allow you to enter the town. And it's precisely the discovery of this village of yesteryear and in particular its medieval castle. A veritable landmark for local designers, the town's century-old architecture will take you through the ages.

Finally, how can you visit Le Castellet, the birthplace of the Bandol AOC appellation, without visiting the Maison des Vins de Bandol. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields, this establishment welcomes you to discover the secrets of these exceptional wines. On the program: tasting, discovery and even purchase of the region's finest bottles!

Riboux, the smallest village in Provence Sud Sainte Baume, is also one of the highest perched in the Var. The must-see here is a chapel a chapel. And the least we can say is that it's not just another church.

La Saint-Pilon Chapel is something of an emblematic place when we talk about religious heritage. The image we conjure up when we evoke the natural force of the Sainte-Baume massif and authentic Provencal culture is rooted in this unique territory. Situated at an altitude of 994 meters, this recently renovated chapel is associated with the story of Mary Magdalene, who found refuge on the soil of the Sainte-Baume.

In addition to the site's past, what really amazes many is its landscape. From the top of the hill a 360°C view of the surrounding forests, vineyards and sublime Var countryside. A breathtaking panorama well worth the detour!

Just a few kilometers from Riboux is another village in our hinterland, Signes. A favorite starting point for paragliding enthusiasts, this town is also popular with Provençals for its walks and the Siou-Blanc plateau.

On the one hand, we have no less than three itineraries to discover Signes' eleven oratories, three calvaries and the chapel of Chateauvieux. This village has an exceptional religious heritage, as it was once the property of the bishops of Marseille. If you want to get to know the Provence Sud Sainte Baume region today, you need to take this crucial step to get a glimpse of its past.

As for the Siou-Blanc plateauplateau is simply one of the destination's must-see hiking areas. Numerous hiking and mountain bike trails are accessible to all, even families. You'll be able to see natural and unusual sights such as the famous stone elephant... It's up to you to solve the mystery!

Let's move on to the village at the gateway to the Sainte-Baume massif, Le Beausset of course. Here, the commune's Provencal history blends with the splendor of the surrounding countryside to create two must-sees that are sure to please.

Tout d’abord, partez à la découverte du Beausset-Vieux. Pour vous y rendre, il vous faudra prendre un peu de hauteur. Depuis le centre-ville, suivez le chemin des oratoires qui vous mènera tout droit à la chapelle romane Notre-Dame du Beausset-Vieux. Depuis cette église millénaire, un superbe point de vue vous attend. Placez-vous devant la table d’orientation et admirez le territoire Provence Sud Sainte Baume comme vous ne l’avez jamais vu. 

The second essential stop in this town is without hesitation the the Écomusée Départemental des 4 Frères. Lost in the middle of the forest, this is a center for natural history and education, as well as a starting point for hikes. starting point for hikes away from it all. Some people even have their favorite mushrooming spots here... For the peace of our households, we won't say any more, but a word of advice: push open the doors of this house and learn more about the local flora and fauna.

The village d'Evenos is like stepping back in time, plunging into our region's Provencal past. Don't miss the old village and the walk along the Crêtes du Croupatier, among the many hidden highlights of this village and its three hamlets.

Nèbre, otherwise known as "Old Evenos "is the name given to the commune's ancient medieval town. And the least we can say is that even if you're well-informed and familiar with the place, you'll still be surprised and amazed. On site, an ancestral seigniorial castle, an ancient village built at 362m and a fort with a 180°C panoramic view from the Toulon harbor to La Ciotatawait you. At the summit, an old eagle's nest of basalt rocks delights the curious.

And for hiking enthusiasts, head for the Crêtes du Croupatier hike ! This walking itinerary will enable you to discover the town's unusual sites, including the hamlet of Broussant, the four à cade, Mont Caume and the Destel gorges, a favorite playground for the region's climbers. It's a walk that will give you a real sense of height, and a better appreciation of this beautiful village, as astonishing as it is historic!

In addition to the cobbled streets of the harbor hiding Sanary's artisans and shopkeepers, Sanary-sur-mer has two pearls: the Portissol beach and the weekly market.

The first is located to the east of the commune and is a little paradise on earth. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the Portissol is home to a sandy beach surrounded by restaurants well known to the locals. It's alsoa key stop on the town's coastal path. The atmosphere here is one of dolce vita, and aperitifs on the terrace overlooking the sunset are king!

As for the weekly market, how can you miss the one that was quite simply voted " Most Beautiful Market in France "? Most Beautiful Market in France " in 2016? Every Wednesday, on the port and in the shady alleys of Sanary-sur-mer, this famous display of local produce takes place. Colorful, seasonal fruits and vegetables, regional crafts and Provencal flavors are waiting for you!

💡 O ur tip: this market can be a victim of its own success. So take public transport to get there.

Our tour of Provence Sud Sainte Baume must-sees ends in the adorable , human-scale seaside town of Bandol. The port that gave its name to the local Bandol AOC wine appellation, it's its coastline that interests us most.

You can't miss the most beautiful town's most beautiful sandy beach, Renecros. A wind-sheltered cove, ideally located for sunset viewing and home to a host of tourist attractions, including restaurants, bars and, of course, Michelin-starred hotels. As you sit on the sand, whether sunbathing or admiring the waves, it's easy to understand why so many celebrities of yesteryear built their homes right on top of it...

And last but not least, don't miss the town's not-to-be-missed hike from Bandol to Saint-Cyr-sur-mer. the coastal path. A 12 km walk (one way) that takes you through the local forest, contemplates the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and plunges you into the soul of the Var coastline. Exceptional views await you at any time of day and in any season.