Hyeres - Lavandou
Between Hyères and Le Lavandou, the Var coastline reveals its most beautiful treasures. This part of the French Riviera, less well known than its neighbor Alpes-Maritimes, offers fine sandy beaches, authentic hilltop villages and unspoiled islands. Here is your guide to an unforgettable stay, far from the traditional tourist trail.
Villages not to be missed
Hyères, the second largest city in the Var, will surprise you with its medieval historic center. Its remarkable gardens and old town with narrow streets are worth a full day. Don't miss the Villa Noailles, an art center perched on the heights, or the ancient site of Olbia facing the sea.
Le Lavandou, a former fishing village that has become a lively seaside resort, retains all its charm with its marina and twelve fine sandy beaches. The Saint-Clair district offers one of the most beautiful views in the town. The shops in the town center and the Provençal market make it a pleasant place to live all year round.
Bormes-les-Mimosas overlooks the sea from the top of its promontory. This medieval village is particularly spectacular in February, when the mimosas color its streets yellow. I recommend starting your visit at the Place de la Liberté, where the small local cafés welcome you from 8 a.m. onwards.
A few kilometers away, La Londe-les-Maures will surprise you with its lively marina and its wine estates. The Sunday morning market is the perfect opportunity to discover local products and chat with local producers.
The Secret beaches of the coast
Between Le Lavandou and the Pointe de Léoube, you will discover unspoiled coves:
The cove of Cavalière: a large fine sandy beach ideal for families
Pramousquier beach: a little corner of paradise between the rocks and the pine trees
Saint-Clair bay: turquoise water and mooring facilities
Activities and discoveries
The region can also be explored by bike thanks to the coastal cycle path. This route links the port of Lavandou to the beaches of Cavalière, offering breathtaking views of the sea. For hiking enthusiasts, the coastal path leads you to Cap Bénat, overlooking the fort of Brégançon.
At sea, excursions to the islands of Port-Cros and Porquerolles leave regularly from the port of Hyères. These islands form a maritime national park where diving reveals exceptional sea beds.
Practical advice
Bike rental available in each municipality
Regular sea shuttles to the islands
Provençal markets every morning in summer
Boat rental services at the port of Lavandou
Accommodation
Here are our recommendations for accommodation in the area: