The most beautiful villages in the Var

The Var, a sunny département in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, is a prime destination for memorable vacations. Between its beach-lined Mediterranean coastline and its verdant hinterland, it’s home to a multitude of characterful localities just waiting to be explored. A stay at our Saint-Tropez campsite isan excellent starting point for discovering these treasures. Let’s discover some of the Var’s most beautiful towns and villages, places where time seems to have stood still, offering an immersion in Provencal authenticity. Each village in the Var has a unique soul, shaped by its history and environment.

Ramatuelle

Located in the immediate vicinity of our La Rouillère campsite, Ramatuelle is a must-see. This typically Provencal village, perched on a hillside, unfurls its winding streets protected by ramparts. As you stroll along, you’ll discover vaulted passageways, small shady squares and buildings with colorful facades and bougainvillea in bloom. The panorama of the Bay of Pampelonne and the surrounding vineyards is simply remarkable. Ramatuelle is also famous for its theater and variety festival, attracting numerous artists and spectators every summer. Contemplating the 16th-century Notre-Damereligious building and the former dungeon, now an exhibition space, will enrich your discovery of this beautiful Var village.

Gassin

Ranked as one of the“Most Beautiful Villages in France“, Gassin richly deserves its title. This elevated Var village offers 360-degree views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the Golden Isles, the vineyards and the Maures mountains. Its narrow, flower-filled streets, ancient stone houses and Deï Barri square, ideal for a relaxing break, make it a place of great beauty. The medieval L’Hardy-Denonain garden and the world’s smallest street, l’Androuno, are not to be missed. Gassin is a true haven of peace, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast, yet very close to Ramatuelle and Saint-Tropez. A visit to this village in the Var is an experience to delight all the senses, and all this during your camping holiday near Gassin.

Grimaud

Dominated by its imposing 11th-century feudal castle, Grimaud is another medieval gem. This Var region invites you to take a trip back in time, with its cobbled streets, arcaded houses and Romanesque church dedicated to Saint-Michel. The Saint-Roch windmill, still in working order, and the Pont des Fées, remnant of an ancient aqueduct, bear witness to the area’s rich history. Grimaud also offers a lakeside version with Port Grimaud, often nicknamed the “Venice of Provence”. A visit to this site offers an exceptional panorama of the gulf and the Maures massif. It’s a village in the Var that combines history, heritage and varied landscapes to discover during your camping vacation near Grimaud.

Saint-Tropez

Although Saint-Tropez is world-renowned as an iconic Côte d’Azur town, its historic heart retains the soul of a Var village. Beyond the bustling port and luxury boutiques, lose yourself in the colorful narrow passages of the Ponche district, and discover the 16th-century citadel overlooking the town and offering breathtaking views. The Musée de l’Annonciade, housed in a former chapel, boasts a remarkable collection of post-impressionist works. Saint-Tropez also boasts fine sandy beaches and a historic town center, whose authentic charm preserves the atmosphere of an old-fashioned fishing village, long before it became an icon of international tourism.

Tourtour

Nicknamed the“village in the sky of Provence“, Tourtour stands proudly at an altitude of 635 meters, offering exceptional panoramic views stretching from the Sainte-Baume massif to Mont Ventoux. Its stone buildings, refreshing fountains, lively Place des Ormeaux café terraces and medieval château (now the town hall) give it an authentic style. Tourtour also boasts a parish church,Saint-Denis, and the remains of an older estate. It’s an ideal place for lovers of tranquillity and breathtaking scenery. This Var village is a must for those who appreciate altitude and history.

Bargème

At an altitude of 1097 metres, Bargème is the highest village in the Var. This medieval village, listed as one of the“Most Beautiful Villages in France“, seems frozen in time. Dominated by the ruins of its Sabran de Pontevès castle, it boasts a striking backdrop. Its narrow lanes, dry-stone houses and Romanesque religious building, Saint-Nicolas, contribute to its unique atmosphere. The panorama of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. Bargème is a place steeped in history, a true testament to Provence’s feudal past. A visit to Bargème is an immersion in a place with a strong character.

Cotignac

Nestled at the foot of an impressive tufa cliff, Cotignac is a unique Var village. Its troglodytic dwellings, carved out of the rock, are its main attraction. The village is also an important pilgrimage site, with the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Grâces and the Monastère Saint-Joseph du Bessillon. The main square, with its century-old plane trees and fountains, is a lively place. To stroll through the narrow streets of Cotignac is to discover a rich past and a peaceful atmosphere. The area is renowned for its character and traditions. The local tourist office will be happy to guide you to Cotignac’s hidden treasures.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

At the gateway to the Gorges du Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a Var village of exceptional beauty. Classified as one of the“Most Beautiful Villages in France“, it is famous for its earthenware and the star suspended between two cliffs. The village is built in the shape of an amphitheatre, offering breathtaking views over the valley. The Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel, accessible via a Way of the Cross, dominates the landscape. Its typical alleyways, earthenware workshops and fountains make it an enchanting place to stroll. Moustiers is a must-see on any walk through the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon. It combines arts and crafts with breathtaking natural scenery.

Seillans

Another member of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” club, Seillans is a charming hilltop village in the Var, typical of the Provencal region. With its tiered buildings, flower-filled cobbled streets, shady squares and ancient fountains, it exudes a serene atmosphere. The medieval château, the Porte Sarrasine and the church of Saint-Léger bear witness to its rich past. The area has also attracted many artists, including the painter Max Ernst, whose house museum can be visited. The area is surrounded by forests and vineyards, inviting you to take a leisurely stroll. It’s a place of authenticity and unspoilt natural beauty.

Entrecasteaux

In the heart of Provence Verte, Entrecasteaux is a Var village dominated by a magnificent 11th-century château, remodeled in the 16th and 18th centuries. The Château d’Entrecasteaux, with its formal gardens designed by Le Nôtre, is one of the most important in the region. The village itself is full of surprises, with its ancient mansions, Saint-Pierre bridge and Saint-Sauveur place of worship. The River Bresque runs through the village, adding a touch of freshness. Entrecasteaux is a popular destination for its architectural heritage and scenic beauty. It is a living testimony to the history of the nobility of Provence.

La Cadière d’Azur

Overlooking the Bandol vineyards, La Cadière d’ Azur is a village in the Var region that has preserved its authenticity. This medieval village is made up of a maze of flower-filled streets, quiet squares and stone buildings with colorful shutters. The 16th-century church of Saint-André and the remains of the town’s ramparts bear witness to its history. The town is also renowned for its peaceful surroundings and panoramic views of the Sainte-Baume hills and vineyards. It’s an ideal place for wine lovers and original villages. A walk here will transport you to a timeless Provence.

Saint-Martin-de-Pallières

Less well known but just as charming, Saint-Martin-de-Pallières is well worth a visit. Nestled on a hill, it is dominated by its imposing château, one of the largest in the département, and its“underground cathedral“, a series of impressive vaulted cisterns. The area is ideal for strolling along its quiet lanes and enjoying views over the surrounding Provence Verte countryside. The parishchurch and ancient fountains add to the beauty of this peaceful spot.

The Var is home to many typical villages, each with its own history and unique landscapes, from the coast to the Gorges du Verdon. Our La Rouillère campsite is an ideal starting point for discovering these nuggets. Whether you’re a lover of authenticity, history or panoramic views, you’ll be delighted by the discovery of a village in the Var. These trips will enrich your stay in France. Don’t forget to contact the tourist offices to organize your Provence-Alpes-Azur tours.

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