What to do in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer? The best of the destination in every season

Lecques Bay is one of the town's most iconic landmarks. This vast stretch of golden sand, facing south, is ideal for anyone looking for a deckchair to sunbathe on, a place to exercise, and somewhere to enjoy the fresh sea air. A typical day, whatever the season, might look like this...

In the morning, the bay slowly awakens. As the sea glistens in the first rays of sunlight, cafés and tea rooms open their terraces and invite you to enjoy brunch by the coast. Then, as the day gets underway, the beach comes to life. It is a favorite spot for families because of the facilities it offers (long promenade accessible to strollers, supervised swimming in summer, sandcastles, etc.) and a favorite spot for those who love to relax (sunbathing, naps in the shade of a parasol, water walks, etc.), Lecques Bay brings everyone together.

On the water, when the sea is calm, paddleboards and kayaks cut through the horizon. And when the wind picks up, surfers and kitesurfers from the surrounding area flock to this spot, which is very popular with locals. Then, at the end of the day, the sunset slowly but surely descends towards the sea, creating a moment suspended in time, perfect for a romantic outing or a nightcap.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, the Port d'Alon cove offers a preserved, quiet, almost wild setting. Of course, this comes at a price: access. To get there, you have two options, one suitable for families reading this, and one that sports enthusiasts will love. 

The first option is simply to drive there. At the end of the cove, there is a large parking lot can accommodate a large number of visitors. Groups will find it fairly easy to find a space, at least outside July and August. During these two months, arrive early! The second option is a hike through the pine trees and the scents of the pine forest, from the port of Bandol or La Madrague (about a 2-hour walk).

In any case, once you reach the bottom, you will discover a small beach nestled between the cliffs, where the crystal-clear water immediately invites you to take a dip. On weekends, many families come here to spend the day. Children play on the pebbles and look for crabs in the rocks, while their parents enjoy snorkeling in the rich and colorful seabed.

As an added bonus, the shaded tables also make it a dream location for a peaceful picnic in a peaceful setting, far from the hustle and bustle of the larger beaches. This is how, in the fall and spring, the cove becomes a peaceful haven where you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature, as well as share good times with your loved ones!

If you would like to discover a more intimate Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer that is more intimate, less touristy, and above all, 100% rooted in its culture halfway between Provence and the Mediterranean, this is the place to go. At the southern end of Lecques Beach, the port of La Madrague charms visitors with its authenticity. Forget the image of a large marina; here you will find a quayside on a human scale with a few dozen moorings.

This small sheltered bay is the starting point (or end point) of the famous coastal path (which we will discuss below) that connects the town to its neighbor, Bandol. Along the quays, you can observe the pointus, the region's traditional fishing boats, or sit on a terrace for a crêpe or ice cream facing the sea. 

It is also the perfect place for an aperitif with friends with a view of the sunset. But don't spread the word too much about this last piece of information, or we might upset some of the locals who would like to keep this secret well hidden.

Far from the summer hustle and bustle, the port of La Madrague can be enjoyed all year round, especially out of season, when the atmosphere becomes almost intimate. You feel privileged here, with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Lecques...

While this place is well known to locals and kids, few visitors have heard of the sand hill. And that's precisely what makes it so charming. 

This curious and astonishing natural formation overlooks the port of La Madrague and Lecques Bay. Be warned, we're not talking about a small mound of sand. But rathera real hill 220 meters high ! As you can imagine, the views from its summit are simply spectacular. A real postcard view of Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer with the sea, vineyards, and forest...

But before you can enjoy the view, you have to climb up there. There are two ways to do this: a leisurely one and an extreme athletic version. In other words, you can either take a trail that allows you to climb gently while exploring the local scrubland; or you can tackle the sand slope directly and climb to the top. Surprisingly, it's the second option that children prefer.

Here, you can spend an hour or a whole day. The ideal outing for a family weekend, with a picnic in your backpack, sneakers and, above all, strong calves!

Among the most beautiful walks in the area (and undoubtedly in the Var, without being chauvinistic, of course...) is the coastal path linking Bandol to Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer is a must for all lovers of the great outdoors. 

As we saw above, the departure point is therefore the port of La Madrague. Over the 12 km (one way) of the route, you will pass cliffs plunging into the waves, the famous Port d'Alon cove, secret coves, and even a rock shaped like a submarine. The advantage of this excursion is that the path winds as close as possible to the sea, offering exceptional views of the horizon that seems to be at our feet. 

Depending on your pace, you can walk the entire route or just a portion of it. Either way, you'll be on a round trip and not a loop. So you'll inevitably pass by here again... Be sure to bring good shoes, water, and your camera: this hike is a treat in any season!

Throughout this article, we have revealed the five places you shouldn't miss during your next vacation in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. But perhaps you arrived here wondering what leisure activities, outings, or excursions you could enjoy in this coastal town? Below, you will find a a non-exhaustive list of ideas to enjoy all year round that will answer your question...

Sports and recreation

• Go for a morning run on the Lecques promenade.
• Try your hand at kayaking along the coast to explore the coastal path from the sea.
• Work on your swing at the superb Frégate Golf Club.
• Set sail for a kitesurfing session in Les Lecques.
• Treat yourself to a paddleboarding session at sunset to admire it from the water.
• Hiking along the coastal path between Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Bandol.
• Go a sport fishing trip in search of big fish.
• Enjoy sea excursions with the local cruise operator, Atlantide.
• Spend the day at Aqualand, to the delight of families.

Culture, heritage, and fine dining

• Strolling through the aisles of the large Provençal market on Sundays.
• Check out the latest movie releases in town.
• Have a coffee near Place Portalis to see the Statue of Liberty.
• Admire an exhibition at the Sébastien Art Center..
• Visit a Saint-Cyr vineyard and taste the region's finest wines.
• Visit the shops in the city center to taste local specialties (cheese shops, bakeries, pastry shops, etc.).
• Step back in time in an ancient villa at the Tauroentum Museum.
• Attend the Pierracci Comedy Festival surrounded by vineyards.

⚡ Quick answers for readers in a hurry!