What to do in the Var?
What to do in the Var?
Must-try activity ideas for families or couples
The Var has everything to win over families with children as well as couples looking to get away from it all. Between child-friendly beaches, perched villages such as Cotignac or Bormes-les-Mimosas, lively Provençal markets, and a wealth of outdoor activities, every stay holds lovely surprises in store. Nestled between the Mediterranean and lush green forests, this department offers a perfect blend of southern charm and authentic adventure. Here’s a guide designed to help you make the most of your camping stay in the Var, with family discoveries and romantic getaways for two.
The best activities
for families in the Var
The region is full of exciting ideas for young and old alike. It’s hard to get bored given the variety on offer, from the seashore to the shaded paths of its nature parks. The Massif des Maures and the Estérel offer, for example, wonderful moments to share in the great outdoors. To make the most of this diversity, consider planning your stay around the major sites close to lively towns, such as around our campsite in Fréjus, which offers plenty of leisure activities for the whole family: find ideas on the must-see activities around Fréjus to make the most of your holiday in the Var.
Which beaches are best for family activities?
Many beaches in the Var are ideal for young children. Near Fréjus, Saint-Aygulf offers playgrounds, shallow waters, and fine sand perfect for building sandcastles. Pampelonne Beach is also popular for its family-friendly atmosphere and supervised areas. The coves around Lavandou offer lovely spots perfect for peaceful swimming.
To spice up the day, some water sports centers offer pedal boat rentals, stand-up paddleboarding lessons, or fun aquagym sessions. These water-based experiences keep kids entertained while ensuring safe supervision. Easy access, clean facilities, and the presence of lifeguards are among the features families appreciate most.
Which water parks and adventure parks are worth discovering?
The summer atmosphere and lush greenery make it tempting to cool off at the water parks in Fréjus or Sainte-Maxime, known for their giant slides, wave pools, and themed pools. Suitable from age 3, they offer a great mix of splashing fun, playtime, and relaxing in the shade of the palm trees.
On land, several adventure and tree-climbing parks await families near the Massif des Maures. Rope courses strung between pine trees, zip lines, and balance workshops make for a great way to spend the day together, awaken your inner explorer, and enjoy outdoor activities in nature.
Why are family hikes so popular?
The Massif des Maures and the Estérel are home to wonderful trails accessible even to little legs. The marked paths, dotted with scenic viewpoints, carry you through the scents of thyme, oleander, and umbrella pines. For an immersive walk, the Vallon du Lavadou trail near Bormes-les-Mimosas invites you to stroll beneath centuries-old trees, as do the discovery trails around Cotignac.
In spring, the flora bursts into vibrant color, turning family hikes into real-life photo safaris. Many of these trails feature educational signs or quizzes to solve along the way, making the outing even more engaging. Among the many family activities to enjoy in the Var, these hikes have the advantage of combining nature, learning, and shared moments outdoors.
Where to spot animals and nature in the Var?
The Var is home to several spots where you can admire local wildlife. The coastal animal parks and zoos, such as the Fréjus zoo, bring together giraffes, elephants, and exotic birds. Further afield, some tortoise parks showcase protected species and offer educational activities for children.
The wild corners of the Massif des Maures or the Plaine des Maures are perfect for spotting birds, butterflies, and sometimes even wild boar or deer during morning walks. All it takes is guiding the curious little ones through nature activities full of unexpected discoveries.
No trip through the Var would be complete without a visit to its interactive, educational museums. Budding scientists and young artists always find plenty to enjoy while learning about local heritage.
Interactive discoveries and local flavors
museums and markets for the whole family
Which museums are best for children?
Several local museums showcase Provençal heritage in a fun, engaging way. In Draguignan or Toulon, visitors can explore maritime history, handle antique objects, or take part in creative workshops suited to different ages. Cultural escape games also bring some museum spaces to life, combining puzzles with learning.
A few rooms dedicated to biodiversity, for example in Vidauban, reveal the hidden life of bees, insects, and Mediterranean plants through immersive installations. Every visit becomes a special opportunity to learn without ever getting bored.
How can you make the most of Provençal markets with children?
A colorful, delicious atmosphere is guaranteed at the Provençal markets of the Var! Perfect for strolling among stalls of sun-ripened fruit, breathing in the scent of local lavender, and sampling cheeses, honeys, and homemade jams. The Cotignac market is a must for savoring regional specialties against the charming backdrop of a perched village.
Children often enjoy trying olive tapenade and fougasse, or even taking part in mini workshops run by local producers. Visits often extend into the lively little squares, where open-air shows and concerts sometimes take place during the summer.
Water parks or unique playgrounds
- Supervised, child-friendly beaches
- Boat trips to the calanques
- Popular animal parks and zoos
- Interactive museums for all ages
- Festive Provençal markets
- Easy hikes in the Massif des Maures
Romance and getaways
for couples in the Var
The Var also reveals a more intimate side, perfect for couples’ stays centered on relaxation, fine dining, or quiet contemplation. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover its signature perched villages and unique wellness experiences.
Which perched villages
and wine estates are worth exploring?
Bormes-les-Mimosas, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, enchants visitors with its flower-lined streets winding up to the castle. Cotignac, another hilltop gem, combines ochre façades with sweeping views over the valley. The peaceful, picturesque atmosphere invites you to stroll hand in hand.
Around these villages lie numerous wine estates where you can sample fresh rosés and local olive oils. Many offer tastings, picnics on the grass, or walks through the vineyard rows, a perfect experience to enjoy as a couple and discover Provençal sweetness in a whole new way.
Where to find spectacular walks
and wellness activities?
The coastal trails of the Var offer exceptional walks, alternating between secret coves, steep cliffs, and sweeping sea views. In Giens or near Saint-Raphaël, the paths run alongside the turquoise sea and open onto secluded picnic spots, perfect for a romantic break.
For total relaxation, a number of seaside spas and thalassotherapy centers offer couples’ treatments, hot baths, and relaxing massages. Some high-end establishments also feature refined gourmet restaurants and sun-drenched terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, combining culinary pleasures with total discretion and relaxation.
Why choose the Verdon Gorges
for a romantic getaway?
With their emerald-green waters and towering cliffs, the Verdon Gorges remain a favorite spot for lovers of spectacular scenery. In addition to the traditional hikes or canoe trips, electric boat cruises offer a different way to discover the gorges, drifting along the water away from the crowds.
Watching the sunset from a viewpoint or over drinks on a terrace overlooking the river promises unforgettable moments. Add a night in a cozy setting, and you have the perfect recipe for a romantic getaway in the south.
Where to stay for your vacation
in the Var?
Looking for the perfect place to stay in the Var? Between the sea, nature, and charming villages, nothing beats an exceptional campsite for exploring it all without giving up on comfort. Discover the 5-star La Baume-La Palmeraie campsite in Fréjus, a must-visit address for a successful holiday on the Var coast.
La Baume – La Palmeraie 5-star campsite
the go-to address for a stay in the Var
To make the most of the Var without compromising on comfort, La Baume – La Palmeraie 5-star campsite has everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Nestled within a vast wooded park, it stands out for its top-of-the-range facilities: lagoon pools, wellness areas, kids’ clubs, and sports activities. There’s something for everyone, whether after a morning of boat trips or a sporting adventure.
Families appreciate the safety, shaded setting, and immediate proximity to the major sites of the Côte d’Azur. For couple activities in the Var, the private spaces and on-site restaurant’s gourmet offerings add an exclusive touch to the stay. This campsite is ideal for anyone looking for a perfect base from which to explore all the treasures of the Var, while enjoying a relaxed, friendly atmosphere every evening.
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