Excursions

Excursions in the Var: A Journey Through Provençal Beauty, Coastal Majesty and Timeless Elegance

The Var region, nestled between the glittering Mediterranean and the mystical hills of Provence, is one of the most captivating destinations in the south of France. It is a land where time slows, beauty unfolds in layers, and every excursion becomes a sensory journey through heritage, nature and refined French lifestyle. Whether arriving from Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime or the tranquil interior, excursions in the Var offer not just a change of scenery—but a profound discovery of culture, history and the Mediterranean art of living.

For many travellers, the most unforgettable excursions begin on the sea. The Var coastline is home to some of the most pristine waters in Europe, where private boat tours lead to remote coves, protected marine parks and idyllic islands. From Saint-Tropez, elegant yachts sail to Port-Cros National Park, a jewel of biodiversity where turquoise waters shelter coral reefs and abundant marine life. Visitors can swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the silence of an island where cars are forbidden and nature reigns supreme. The neighbouring island of Porquerolles offers a different atmosphere—white sandy beaches, pine forests and vineyards meeting the Mediterranean Sea in a poetic embrace. These maritime excursions capture the essence of the Var: untouched, luxurious, deeply rejuvenating.

Inland, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of hilltop villages. Excursions to Gassin, Ramatuelle or Grimaud reveal traditional Provençal architecture, cobblestone streets, bougainvillaea-draped houses and panoramic terraces where the horizon stretches endlessly over the sea. These perched villages are more than viewpoints; they are keepers of Provençal history, where local markets sell lavender honey, olive oil and handmade ceramics. Time seems to pause here, inviting visitors to savour a café under the plane trees or wander through quiet lanes scented with jasmine.

One of the most captivating excursions in the Var is a journey through its vineyards. The region is the birthplace of the world’s finest rosé wines, and many prestigious wine estates offer private tastings, gourmet lunches between the vines and helicopter transfers for the most exclusive experience. At these domaines, wine is not only tasted—it is understood as a reflection of the land itself. Guests can stroll through biodynamic vineyards, visit historic cellars and enjoy pairings that bring together local produce and exceptional vintages. Some estates have expanded into wellness retreats, offering vinotherapy treatments, yoga among the vines and sunset dining beneath the stars.

Nature lovers are drawn to the Var’s dramatic landscapes, particularly the Gorges du Verdon, known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” This breathtaking natural wonder features limestone cliffs plunging into an emerald-green river, offering opportunities for boating, hiking or simply enjoying the serenity from panoramic viewpoints. Private excursions can be tailored to include luxury picnics prepared by Michelin-level chefs, served on terraces overlooking the gorge.

For a more tranquil but equally enriching experience, excursions through the Massif des Maures reveal the spiritual side of Provence. This ancient mountain range, covered in chestnut trees and aromatic herbs, is ideal for mindful hiking and forest bathing. Paths lead to remote chapels, historic ruins and hidden lakes. Here, silence becomes a form of luxury—a retreat from modern life, surrounded by the unchanging beauty of nature.

The Var is also a land of artisanal heritage. Excursions to traditional olive mills, lavender distilleries and pottery workshops provide insight into centuries-old techniques that remain integral to Provencal identity. Visitors can learn how lavender oil is distilled, how olive oil is pressed and how natural soaps are made from local ingredients. These encounters offer something beyond luxury—authenticity, connection and a tangible link to the region’s soul.

On the coast, excursions may include private sailing lessons, dolphin-watching cruises, paddleboard tours through hidden coves or even bespoke yacht charters designed to explore the Var’s secluded coastline at golden hour. Dining onboard with a private chef, watching the sun set over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez as the sky glows amber and rose, is one of the most romantic experiences the region offers.

Cultural excursions in the Var are equally captivating. Historic towns such as Toulon and Hyères offer elegant architecture, botanical gardens and art institutions. The Villa Noailles in Hyères, a centre for contemporary design and fashion, hosts exclusive exhibitions and private viewings for art connoisseurs. In summer, classical music concerts in ancient abbeys add a mystical dimension to evening excursions, blending French cultural heritage with the serenity of the Var’s landscape.

What elevates excursions in the Var beyond traditional tourism is their ability to create emotional resonance. Each journey feels personal—tailored to the rhythm of nature, infused with cultural richness and elevated by luxury. Whether travelling by yacht, vintage car or private driver, the essence of the Var remains constant: elegance without excess, beauty without artifice, luxury expressed through serenity rather than spectacle.

To explore the Var is to encounter the Mediterranean in its purest form. The sea, the vineyards, the villages and the forests together compose a region where every excursion becomes a moment of harmony. It is a destination that does not seek to impress with grandeur, but to inspire with authenticity—a rare luxury in the modern world.

In the Var, an excursion is never just a journey. It is an awakening of the senses, a return to nature, and an invitation to live beautifully.