Ideally located in the heart of Provence, the Var is a perfect destination for travelers looking to discover the wonders of the south of France. Imagine spending an entire day swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Saint-Raphaël beaches, learning all about France’s maritime history by visiting the museums and forts of Toulon, or going on a kayak hike in the Verdon Gorge.
If you’re wondering what to do in the Var, Esterel Caravaning, a 5-star campsite ideally located in Saint-Raphaël between the sea and the mountains, guides you through turquoise beaches, vertiginous natural sites, and the characteristic Provençal heritage. Follow us to plan your next adventure in Provence with your family or friends!
Massif de l’Estérel
Located just a few kilometers from the campsite near Fréjus, the Massif de l’Estérel, recognizable by its typical red volcanic rocks, is an exceptional natural treasure to discover in the Var. Hiking enthusiasts wondering what to do in the Var will be delighted by the shaded trails offering beautiful viewpoints of the Mediterranean, the bay of Cannes, and the Lérins Islands. All while hiking in the shade thanks to the dense and shaded vegetation that protects hikers.
- Access from the campsite: directly accessible from the coastal trail starting from Camp Long Beach in Saint-Raphaël
- Distance from the campsite: about 10 km to the closest point, approximately 15 minutes
- For whom?: hiking enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers.
Saint-Tropez and Pampelonne Beach
An icon of glamour and partying, Saint-Tropez is a legendary town in the Var. Spend a day wandering its lively port, discovering its designer shops, or enjoying the famous Pampelonne beach, where you can choose to relax on the golden sand or swim in the crystal-clear waters. Between a glamorous atmosphere, paradise beaches, and Provençal charm, the town of Saint-Tropez is a destination where luxury and authenticity mix, and where every street corner exudes elegance and conviviality.
- Access from the campsite: accessible by car via the D559 towards Saint-Raphaël or by shuttle
- Distance from the campsite: about 40 km, approximately 1 hour
- For whom?: couples, groups of friends, and luxury enthusiasts
The Beaches of the Var
The Var is full of beautiful beaches where you can fully enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. Among the most popular are the Estagnol Beach in Bormes-les-Mimosas and the Escalet Beach in Ramatuelle. The fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and preserved landscapes of these beaches make them ideal spots for swimming, relaxing under the Provençal sun, or even enjoying a picnic by the sea. The shaded areas of some beaches also allow you to fully relax out of the heat. If you’re a fan of swimming or lounging and wondering what to do in the Var, these beaches are for you!
- Access from the campsite: accessible by car via the D559 towards Fréjus
- Distance from the campsite: 20 to 80 km depending on the chosen beach, from 20 minutes to about 1h30
- For whom?: families, couples, and relaxation lovers
Hyères, the Giens Peninsula, and the Golden Islands
If you’re seeking wild landscapes and tranquility and wondering what to do in the Var, think about spending a day visiting Hyères and the Giens Peninsula. Located not far from the campsite in Saint-Raphaël, these two dream destinations combine wild beaches, preserved landscapes, and charming Provençal villages. You will have the opportunity to swim in stunning beaches such as Almanarre, known for the beauty of its clear waters and fine sand.
For those who want to go further in exploring the islands just a few minutes by boat, the Golden Islands, including Porquerolles, welcome you for exceptional marine excursions in the heart of nature. On this island, the hiking trails will lead you through lush vegetation with magnificent viewpoints over the Mediterranean Sea.
Practical Information:
- Access from the campsite: follow the D559 towards Hyères. Once in Hyères, continue on the D559 towards Giens to access the Giens Peninsula. To reach the Golden Islands, including Porquerolles, head to the Hyères harbor and take a boat from the harbor for a 15-minute crossing
- Distance from the campsite: about 75 km to Hyères, approximately 1h15
- For whom?: families, nature lovers, and couples seeking tranquility
Toulon Harbor
The Toulon Harbor, nicknamed the “most beautiful harbor in Europe”, is a fascinating place for travelers wondering what to do in the Var. Easily accessible by car from Saint-Raphaël, it allows you to board a boat for a tour of the bay and discover Toulon’s military installations. For those who don’t have sea legs, you can also take in the view by riding the Mont-Faron cable car, which will offer you a panoramic view of Toulon and the Mediterranean Sea from above.
- Access: accessible by car via the A57 or by train from Saint-Raphaël station to Toulon station (about 1h journey)
- Distance from the campsite: about 90 km, approximately 1h15
- For whom?: history enthusiasts, families, and lovers of maritime landscapes
Draguignan
Draguignan, the capital of the Dracénie, is a typical Provençal town blending historical and cultural heritage. You can choose to stroll through its charming old streets, visit its museum of arts and popular traditions, or explore its Provençal markets and stock up on local products. The city’s rich historical and cultural heritage is ideal for planning a full day of sightseeing, such as visiting the Clock Tower or the Saint-Michel Cathedral.
- Access: accessible by car via the N7 from Saint-Raphaël
- Distance from the campsite: about 35 km, around 50 minutes by car
- For whom?: perfect for history buffs, families, and travelers wishing to discover Provençal culture
The Corniche Sublime Road
The Corniche Sublime Road is one of the most spectacular roads in the Var, as it is dotted with breathtaking viewpoints over the Verdon Gorge. Its winding path runs along cliffs and offers magnificent views of the canyon. Lovers of beautiful landscapes, mountains, and forests wondering what to do in the Var will be enchanted by the Mescla Belvedere and its exceptional panorama of the gorge and the river.
- Access from the campsite: accessible by car via the D71 towards Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Distance from the campsite: about 75 km, approximately 1h30 by car
- For whom?: ideal for families, couples, road trip enthusiasts, and those who love panoramic views
The Verdon Gorge and Sainte-Croix Lake
The Verdon Gorge, a natural wonder of the Var, is perfect for a day filled with adventure or even relaxation. This impressive canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Verdon“, is the starting point for many outdoor activities: hikes along the Blanc-Martel trail, water sports like kayaking or rafting in the turquoise waters of the Verdon, and swimming at the peaceful Sainte-Croix Lake, the largest lake in the region.
- Access from the campsite: take the D25 towards Draguignan and follow the D90
- Distance from the campsite: about 70 km, approximately 1h15
- For whom?: ideal for adventurers, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers
With all these activities to discover, the Var is truly a wonderful playground for tourists looking for natural beauty, sea, and mountain adventures. It’s the perfect destination to make the most of your next vacation in the south of France.
