Things to do in the Var in Summer : Lakes, Gorges, Markets and Village Festivals
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Emerald lakes, dramatic gorges, colourful markets, hilltop villages and evenings beneath the stars: summer is the season when the Var truly comes into its own. Between the Provençal hinterland and the Mediterranean coast, the department offers a rare variety of experiences, from the most energetic to the most contemplative. From Tourtour, in the heart of the Haut-Var, everything lies within easy reach: Lake Sainte-Croix, the Verdon Gorges, local markets, and even the Mediterranean for a day by the sea. Here are our favorite things to do in the Var in summer, whether you are traveling with family, friends or as a couple.
Lake Sainte-Croix: Swimming and Water Activities
With its turquoise waters framed by hills, Lake Sainte-Croix is the Var's great summer playground. It marks the gateway to the Verdon Gorge and caters to every mood : swimming, lazing on the shore or water sports.
Bauduen, the Haut-Var's Lakeside Port
Some twenty kilometers from Tourtour, Bauduen is a village with its feet in the water, nestled in the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park. Its little harbour shelters a fleet of sailing boats, and its long pebble beach is one of the most pleasant on the lake. Between lake and hills, the absence of large-scale resort development and the regulation of motorboats preserve the peace of the place. Our tip: arrive early in the morning in July and August, when the water is still and parking spaces are plentiful. At the end of the day, the golden light on the lake offers one of the most beautiful sights in the Var.
Bauduen Beach Lake of Sainte Croix Bauduen
Paddleboarding, Pedalos and Sailing on the Lake
Lake Sainte-Croix is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Paddleboards, pedalos, canoes, windsurfing boards: the local water sports centers offer equipment to hire for every level. Breezy afternoons delight windsurfers and sailors, who can rent dinghies, catamarans or small sailing boats. For a gentler outing, electric boats let families enjoy the lake in peaceful silence, with no licence required.
The Verdon Gorge: Nature and Thrills
At the foot of the Alps, straddling the Var and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, the Verdon Gorge ranks among the largest canyons in Europe. It is a highlight of any summer, for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Exploring the Gorge by Canoe or Kayak
From the Galetas bridge, at the entrance to Lake Sainte-Croix, you can head up into the gorge by pedalo, canoe or kayak. You glide between cliffs several hundreds meters high, on water of a deep, luminous green. An unforgettable experience, suitable for families, provided you set off early: in high season, rentals are snapped up by late morning.
Rafting, Aqua Trekking and Canyoning
For the more adventurous, the gorge offers a host of guided activities: rafting, aqua trekking, canyoning, climbing and more. These outings are led by qualified instructors who tailor each route to your level. It is the best way to discover the wild heart of the canyon, otherwise out of reach.
Lake of Sainte-Croix Verdon Gorges Canoeing on Lake Sainte-Croix
The Corniche Sublime, on the Var side
On the Var side, the Corniche Sublime road follows the left bank of the gorge, with one breathtaking viewpoint after another. Allow half a day to drive it at leisure, stopping often to admire the cliffs and the Verdon far below. Please note that the road is narrow and winding: it is best avoided during the hottest and busiest hours.
The Provençal Markets of the Var: Colours and Flavours of Summer
In summer, Provençal markets are lively and festive . Cheeses, olives, sun-ripened fruits, Provençal herbs, local rosé: this is the perfect opportunity to discover the richness of the local cuisine and fill your basket for long lunches on the terrace.
Tourtour market
On the village square, Tourtour's market brings together growers and artisans in an exceptional setting. It is the ideal moment to discover the "village in the sky", before extending your morning with a stroll through its narrow streets. To learn more about the village, read our guide Things to do in Tourtour, Provence's Village in the Sky
Lorgues, the Great Tuesday Market
On Tuesday mornings, market lovers should not miss the Lorgues, home to the largest Provençal market in the Dracénie area and reputed to be one of the most beautiful in the Var. Nearly a hundred stalls celebrate local produce: organic fruit and vegetables, fresh fish, charcuterie and flowers, as well as clothing and crafts. Beneath the plane trees, the atmosphere is especially warm and convivial.
Salernes, a Land of Artisans
In Salernes, the market gathers some fifty stalls offering local specialties and quality produce. Take the opportunity to visit the ceramic workshops that have made the village famous, as the capital of the Provençal tomette.
Hikes and Cool Walks in the Haut-Var
When the heat settles over the coast, the hinterland offers refreshing walks, in the shade of oak trees or along the water's edge.
The Sillans Waterfall
Some ten kilometers from Tourtour, the Sillans waterfall is the highest in the Var. A shaded path of about fifteen minutes leads to the viewing platform overlooking the falls. Swimming is forbidden, but the walk remains one of the most pleasant of the summer, an ideal with children.
The Caves of Villecroze
Right next door to Tourtour, the caves of Villecroze are open in summer and offer a welcome escape from the heat. Hollowed out of a tufa cliff, they conceal mullioned windows and even a passage behind a waterfall. The municipal park, free to enter, is perfect for a picnic. Find more ideas in What to visit in the Haut-Var? 10 places around Tourtour."
The Trails around Tourtour
From Tourtour, countless trails wind through the hills, among oaks, olive trees and fragrant garrigue. Set off early in the morning to enjoy the cool air and the finest light. One important point: in summer, access to the Var's forest massifs is regulated according to the daily fire risk. Check the access map published by the prefecture each day before heading out.
A Day Trip to the Mediterranean
Staying inland does not mean missing out on the sea. From the Haut-Var, the Var coast is easily reached for a day at the beach.
The Golden Islands
Off the coast of Hyères, the island of Porquerolles and its neighbors form the Îles d'Or, or Golden Islands, partly protected by the Port-Cros National Park. Crystal-clear waters, fine sandy beaches and cycle paths winding through pine forests: a day out of time. Boats depart from the Giens peninsula.
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez
Legendary beaches, hilltop villages and a bustling harbour: the Gulf of Saint-Tropez remains one of the Var's great summer destinations. For a quieter experience, choose secluded coves early in the morning, and hilltop villages such as Ramatuelle or Gassin in the late afternoon.
FAQ: Things to Do in the Var in Summer
What are the best things to do in the Var in summer with children?
For families, the best things to do in the Var in summer include Lake Sainte-Croix for swimming and pedalos, the Sillans waterfall for an easy walk, and the caves of Villecroze for a cool, fascinating visit. Provençal markets and village festivals round off the days beautifully.
Where is the Var in France?
The Var is a department in south-eastern France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It stretches from the Mediterranean in the south to the Verdon Gorge in the north, between the Bouches-du-Rhône to the west and the Alpes-Maritimes to the east. Its prefecture is Toulon.
What are some unusual walks in the Var?
Walk behind a waterfall in the caves of Villecroze, explore the cave dwellings of the Rock of Cotignac, or paddle up the Verdon Gorge between towering cliffs. For a spectacular view, climb up to Bargème, the highest village in the Var.
Where can you swim in the Var in summer?
On the coast, the Golden Islands and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez offer beautiful beaches. Inland, Lake Sainte-Croix and Bauduen beach are the most popular swimming spots. Swimming is, however, forbidden in the pool beneath the Sillans waterfall.
When should you book activities in the Verdon Gorge?
In July and August, book guided activities such as rafting, canyoning and aqua trekking a few days ahead. For pedal and canoe hire, arrive as soon as the rental centres open.
Between lakes, gorges, markets and village festivals, summer in the Var is to be savoured to the full, at the gentle pace of Provence. Book your stay at Villa du Saignadou and let Tourtour and its surroundings work their charm.
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