Stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the wooded foothills of the Alps, the departement of Var has everything you need for a rich and varied holiday. Spend some time on the beach or relaxing by the shore of one of the beautiful inland lakes, before heading into the hills for a hike. Drive through the spectacular Gorges du Verdon before you enjoy an evening drink in a hilltop medieval village or an exclusive St Tropez beach bar.
There are several resorts along the Var coast, which runs from St Raphael in the east to Bandol in the west. Frejus, which is virtually part of St Raphael thanks to increased development in the region, is a resort with a difference, as it is also home to a fine collection of Roman ruins. The most impressive are the town's amphitheatre and aqueduct which are always popular tourist attractions. St Tropez and Port Grimaud may have a reputation as where the rich and famous come to spend their holiday, but that doesn't mean we can't join them for the day! Port Grimaud is coastal town and large marine built on a network of canals, while the perennially glamorous St Tropez, and its miles and miles of sandy beaches, is definitely the place to see and be seen.
Further west, the coastline becomes quieter, with fewer large resorts and more remote beaches where you might be able to get some peace away from the crowds. The beaches on the Gien peninsula, for example, or on the Hyeres islands which can be reached by boat from Toulon.
A few kilometres inland from the resort of Bandol is the hilltop village of Castellet, one of the most visited in this area. Offering great views in the daytime, and a surprisingly lively nightlife, the village is situated in the heart of the Bandol vineyards. Further north, you come to the more mountainous and wooded areas of Var, including the Verdon Regional Nature Park and the Gorges du Verdon. The Gorges du Verdon are a collection of deep canyons, with a narrow road at the summit which is always busy with holidaymakers enjoying the spectacular views. There are plenty of stopping points to take your photos.
If you prefer freshwater swimming to the sea, there are two beautiful lakes in the Var mountains; Sainte-Croix lake, with a fine selection of man-made beaches and water sports, and the quieter Lac Saint Cassien, which is also popular with fishermen and hikers.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Var? Then below is a selection of gites in Var and villas in Var that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
