What to do in the Var ? Ideas for unmissable activities for families or couples
The Var has everything to appeal to families with children and couples looking to get away from it all. With child-friendly beaches, hilltop villages such as Cotignac and Bormes-les-Mimosas, lively Provençal markets and a wide range of outdoor activities, every stay is full of wonderful surprises. Located between the Mediterranean Sea and lush green forests, this department offers a concentration of southern charm and authentic adventures. Here is a guide designed to help you make the most of your stay at a campsite in the Var, between family discoveries and romantic getaways for two.
The best activities for families in the Var
The region is brimming with exciting things to do for all ages. With so much variety on offer, from the seashore to the shady paths of its natural parks, it's hard to get bored. The Maures mountains and the Estérel, for example, offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. To make the most of this diversity, consider planning your stay around major sites close to dynamic towns such as those around our campsite in Fréjus, which offers a wide range of leisure activities for the whole family. Find ideas for unmissable activities around Fréjus to enhance your holiday in the Var.
Which beaches are best for family activities ?
Many of the beaches in the Var are ideal for young children. Near Fréjus, Saint-Aygulf offers playgrounds, shallow waters and fine sand perfect for building castles. Pampelonne Beach also appeals for its family atmosphere and supervised areas. The coves around Le Lavandou offer pretty spots for peaceful swimming.
To spice up the day, some water sports centres offer pedalo hire, stand-up paddle lessons and fun aquagym sessions. These water sports are great fun and provide a safe environment for children. Easy access, clean facilities and the presence of lifeguards are among the criteria appreciated by families.
Which water parks and adventure parks are worth visiting ?
The summer atmosphere and lush vegetation invite you to cool off in the water parks of Fréjus and Sainte-Maxime, renowned for their giant slides, wave pools and themed pools. Suitable for children aged 3 and up, they offer a variety of activities, from splashing around to playing and relaxing in the shade of palm trees.
On land, several adventure parks and tree-top adventure courses await families near the Massif des Maures. Suspended trails between pine trees, zip lines and balance workshops are a great way to spend the day together, awaken your inner explorer and enjoy outdoor activities in the great outdoors.
Why are family hikes so appealing ?
The Massif des Maures and the Estérel are home to superb trails that are accessible even to little legs. The marked trails, dotted with viewpoints, take you on a journey through the scents of thyme, oleander and umbrella pines. For an immersive walk, the Lavadou valley trail near Bormes-les-Mimosas invites you to stroll under century-old trees, as do the discovery trails around Cotignac.
In spring, the flora comes alive with bright colours, transforming family hikes into life-size photo hunts. Many of these trails feature educational panels or quizzes to solve along the way, making the outing even more enjoyable. Among the many activities to enjoy with your family in the Var, these walks have the advantage of combining nature, learning and shared moments in the open air.
Where can you see animals and nature in the Var ?
The Var is home to several areas where you can admire the local wildlife. The animal parks and zoos along the coast, such as the Fréjus Zoo, are home to giraffes, elephants and exotic birds. Further afield, some turtle parks showcase protected species and offer educational activities for children.
The wild areas of the Massif des Maures and the Plaine des Maures are ideal for bird watching, butterfly watching and sometimes even wild boar and deer watching during morning walks. Simply guide the most curious visitors through nature activities rich in unexpected discoveries.
Interactive discoveries and local flavours museums and markets for the whole family
No trip to the Var would be complete without a visit to one of its interactive and educational museums. Young scientists and budding artists will find plenty to entertain them while learning about the local heritage.
Which museums are best for children ?
Several local museums showcase Provençal heritage in a fun way. In Draguignan and Toulon, visitors can discover maritime history, handle ancient objects and take part in creative workshops suitable for different ages. Cultural escape games also bring certain museum spaces to life, combining puzzles and learning.
A few rooms dedicated to biodiversity, for example in Vidauban, explain the hidden life of bees, insects and Mediterranean plants through immersive installations. Each visit becomes a special opportunity to learn without getting bored.
How can you make the most of Provençal markets with children ?
A colourful and gourmet atmosphere is guaranteed at the Provençal markets of the Var! It's the perfect place to stroll among the stalls laden with sun-ripened fruit, smell the local lavender and taste artisanal cheeses, honeys and jams. The Cotignac market is a must for sampling regional specialities in the charming setting of a hilltop village.
Children often enjoy trying olive oil tastings, fougasse bread or even taking part in mini workshops run by the producers. Visits often continue in the lively squares, where open-air shows and concerts are sometimes organised during the summer.
- Child-friendly supervised beaches
- Boat trips to the calanques
- Renowned animal parks and zoos
- Interactive museums for all ages
- Festive Provençal markets
- Easy hikes in the Massif des Maures
- Water parks and original playgrounds
Romance and escape for couples in the Var
The Var also has a more intimate side, ideal for relaxing breaks for two, whether you're looking for fine dining or contemplation. It's the perfect opportunity to discover its typical hilltop villages and unique wellness experiences.
Which hilltop villages and wine estates are worth exploring ?
Bormes-les-Mimosas, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, will enchant you with its flower-filled streets winding their way up to the castle. Cotignac, another hilltop gem, combines ochre-coloured façades with panoramic views of the valley. The peaceful, picturesque atmosphere is perfect for a stroll hand in hand.
Around these villages are numerous wine estates where you can taste fresh rosés and local olive oils. Several organise tastings, picnics on the grass or walks through the vineyards, a perfect experience for lovers to discover the gentleness of Provence in a different way.
Where can you find spectacular walks and wellness activities ?
The coastal paths of the Var offer exceptional walks, alternating between secret coves, steep cliffs and panoramic sea views. In Giens or near Saint-Raphaël, the trails run alongside the turquoise sea and open onto discreet picnic tables, perfect for a romantic break.
For total relaxation, a few spas and thalassotherapy centres by the sea offer couples' treatments, hot baths and relaxing massages. Some Michelin-starred establishments include refined gourmet restaurants and sunny terraces facing the Mediterranean, combining culinary pleasures and relaxation in complete privacy.
Why choose the Verdon Gorge for a romantic getaway ?
With their emerald green colour and imposing cliffs, the Gorges du Verdon remain a popular spot for lovers of spectacular landscapes. In addition to traditional hiking and canoeing, electric boat cruises offer a different way to discover the gorges, floating along the water and far from the crowds.
The sunset views from the lookout points or while enjoying an aperitif on a terrace overlooking the river promise unforgettable moments. Add to that a night in a cosy setting and you have the perfect recipe for a romantic getaway in the south.
Where to stay for your holiday in the Var ?
Are you looking for the perfect place to stay in the Var ? Between the sea, nature and charming villages, nothing beats an exceptional campsite for exploring everything without sacrificing comfort. Discover the 5-star La Baume-La Palmeraie campsite in Fréjus, an unmissable destination for a successful holiday on the Var coast.
