The Var hinterland, also known as “Provence verte” features some of the Var’s most authentic landscapes and traditional architecture. This wonderful, natural landscape punctuated by mountain ranges, vineyards and panoramic views, attracts investors looking for permanent, understated luxury.
Colourful mountain ranges extend as far as the eye can see
With its wealth of landscapes and authentic feel, the Var hinterland is a captivating region. Waterfalls, troglodyte cliffs, Medieval cities, Cistercian abbeys and hundred-year-old vineyards combine to create incredible landscapes in every corner of the region. Another reason for visiting is its famous mountains, including the massif des Maures, with its cork oak and chestnut forests, the massif de l’Estérel with its famous red rocks plunging into the sea and the massif de la Sainte-Baume, a white limestone ridge which shelters a sacred cave and ancient forest.
The Pays de Fayence in the Var hinterland: unadulterated charm
The Var hinterland is very popular with Provence enthusiasts who enjoy exploring its charming, ancient villages. At the heart of this historic Var landscape is the Puy de Fayence which features some of the most beautiful, hilltop villages including Montauroux, not far from Lake St-Cassien. Also known as the village of fountains it dates back to the 10th century. Caillan, located in this same part of the Var, is known for its traditional atmosphere. The village, which was once an important urban centre, developed in a spiral formation around the hilltop feudal château, is teaming with picturesque properties, many of which are several centuries old. From here, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the Tanneron and Estérel mountain ranges. However, it was in Seillans that Max Ernst decided to spend his final years, surrounded by hillside houses, vineyards and olive trees. Further north, Mons, which is perched at a height of 850 m, is the region’s highest recorded village and boasts spectacular views of the Gorges de la Siagne. Bagnols-en-forêt, to the south, is a perched village which combines sea and mountains, offering an incomparable quality of life, in the foothills of the Estérel mountains.
Drancénie Provence Verdon: an immersion in nature
Drancénie Provence Verdon is a part of the Var hinterland that is always worth exploring. The Sillans waterfalls, the eyrie-like, hilltop village of Bargème, local Medieval towns and vineyards offer visitors a variety of natural landscapes and architecture. Lorgues, located in this small corner of the Var, is a charming town, just 13 km from Draguignan, in an exclusive location, half-way between the Gorges du Verdon and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The wonderful view of the massif des Maures mountain range from the village makes this a very special place. Similarly, its colourful, historic past, wine estates, numerous shops, restaurants, appealing lifestyle and famous weekly market also attract visitors. If you want a taste of Var rural life, this really is a must-visit place.