The Var, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, is the ideal destination for a stay conciliating sun, relaxation and culture. The landscapes of its coastal reliefs, its exceptional Mediterranean beaches, the impressive architecture of its cities... let yourself be transported by this little bit of Provence !
The Var is first and foremost a history that dates back to a long time and that is found in its urban heritage. In Fréjus, first of all, "city of Art and History", the ancient vestiges dot the narrow streets of this charming port city. The imposing Roman amphitheater of the 1st century, now called the Arenes of Fréjus, has been restored and welcomes sublime shows every summer. To contemplate another monument of the same size, it will be necessary to go to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume and visit the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene, grandiose architecture of Gothic style. It was built on the site of the discovery of the presumed tomb of Mary Magdalene at the Charles II of Anjou's request in 1295. The Saint would have found refuge in a cave of the Massif of Saint Baume and would have lived there for thirty years.
Continue your visit on the Islands of Hyères to fill up with paradisiacal landscapes. Legend says that the four daughters of Prince Olbianus were breathtakingly beautiful. One day, as they swam away from the shore, a pirate ship appeared on the horizon. The prince then implored the gods to save his daughters from a tragic destiny. The gods heard his prayers, and under the eyes of their father, the four girls were transformed into islands. What is certain, however, is, that in our day the four islands are always as marvelous as the daughters of the prince in their time. The exceptional coasts alternating coves and beaches are the ideal place to enjoy the Mediterranean climate of the Var. It is also the point of departure for divers, who come to confront real underwater archaeological sites. And once you are back on land, come and visit the ruins of the city of Ostia, founded in the 4th century BC. J-C. by the Phocaeans, the Greek people who founded the city of Marseille. This incredibly well preserved site is currently the only Greek city entirely preserved in France.
Finally, we can not stay in the Var without tasting the Provencal cuisine ! Based on olive oil and Provencal herbs, the local dishes at the tables of the numerous restaurants will delight the small and big gourmands. Sweet lovers will not be left behind with the star of the varese dishes : the famous tarte tropézienne. It is a flat brioche split in two and filled with butter cream and custard cream. It was Alexandre Micka, a pastry-cook of Polish origin, who brought to Saint Tropez this family recipe, officially deposited and still kept secret.