Blavet Gorges in Bagnols-en-Forêt

An exceptional natural heritage .

Do you want fresh air, to move, to be amazed? Open your eyes wide and breathe deeply - you are in the Var. Whether you're with your partner, with your family or amongst friends, welcome to this land of blue, green and gold.

The must-see .

Var : Lac des Escarets

A land of contrasts .

The dizzying Verdon gorges, oak and pine forests, lakes and rivers, wine growing regions, coastal paths… the Var is a massive playground where everyone can find an outdoor activity that suits them and go at their own pace. With 300 days of sunshine per year, in the Var you can get outside all year round!

The Var enjoys immense geological diversity, which gives it a wide variety of landscapes and different aspects, with stunning views.

Var : Les Salins

A special environment .

Discover the incredibly rich plant and wild life, as well as the authentic landscapes. For several decades, locals have fought to preserve the identity of their territory whilst still sharing it with visitors. They want to preserve the nature and the landscapes, but also the cultural heritage, human values, etc.

Var is one of the French departments with the most protected spaces with: 1 National Park, 2 Regional Natural Parks and 1 National Nature Reserve. There are several other exceptional natural spaces, such as the Espaces Naturels Sensibles (Sensitive Natural Spaces), protected and managed by local people. In this respect, Var is proud to be the French department with the 2nd most natural spaces!

View Natural Parks

Lac de Sainte Croix dans le Var

Rivers and lakes .

To the north are the fabulous Verdon gorges, the Lake of Sainte-Croix and the low gorges, with turquoise water and grandiose landscapes in an exceptional, unspoiled landscape. Discover the area by canoe, pedalo, motor boat or guided boat trip.

In the centre of the department, the Argens runs from west to east before plunging into the sea at Fréjus. The 114km of river pass through completely different landscapes: the green Sourn Valley, the rapids at Arcs-sur-Argens and the red rocks at Roquebrune-sur-Argens, before opening into the sea at Fréjus…

To the east, the Lake of Saint-Cassien in the Pays de Fayence is paradise for swimmers and fishers. The trees that go right up to the water’s edge give this place a wild appearance, which is particularly appreciated by migratory birds.

The department also includes numerous small lakes, rivers and streams, which are often refuges for birds and wildlife, such as the Lake of Escarcets in the middle of the Maures plain, a National Nature Reserve.

Learn more about the rivers and lakes

Massif forestier du Var : Pentes du Gros Cerveau

Beware, from June to September, access to the forest-covered massifs is controlled by prefectoral decree. A map of fire risk areas is published every day (day before at 7pm) online. Please check before setting off on your trip!

View map

Balade Nature Commentée
Randonnée au Croupatier dans le Var

There are a thousand and one ways to explore the Var on foot: the Maures Massif, Estérel Massif, Verdon Regional Natural Park… Whether you prefer sporty excursions or family outings, come and explore the Var’s paths to discover its cultural and natural heritage: 800km of long-distance hiking trails, hundreds of kilometres of paths for shorter walks, and over 200km of Coastal Path….you won’t stop walking!

Throughout the year, the nature in the Var reserves an unexpected sight, a subtle perfume or an unforgettable emotion for each visitor: pine trees, oaks, mimosa, red earth and vineyards.

Further information on hiking

Accompanied by a specialist guide, discover (or rediscover!) the natural landscapes of the Var in a new light. Different types of walks, with different themes, are organised so you can make the most of the diversity of the landscape.

View guided walks