Far from the summer bustle of the coast, Var reveals a true gem for those seeking escape and freshness: the bucolic trails along the Argens. This discreet river, winding over a hundred kilometers, offers a dream playground for hiking and nature enthusiasts. Ocher cliffs, golden reflections on the water, majestic pines, and breathtaking viewpoints await those who dare to venture off the beaten path. Year after year, the Argens becomes a meeting point for Var Outdoor enthusiasts eager to combine disconnection, outdoor activities, and gourmet discoveries. This summer, explore an unexpected side of Var and experience a unique journey, between Aqua Var, slow-life by the water, and perched villages steeped in history.
Refreshing hikes along the Argens: a Nature Var paradise to discover
The Argens river, too often eclipsed by the department’s renowned beaches, nevertheless offers some of the most authentic and refreshing Var escapes. On the banks of the Argens, the diversity of trails will delight both families seeking an easy stroll and adventurers thirsting for sporting challenges.
- The Roquebrune-sur-Argens Circuit: a loop punctuated by panoramas and rocky passages, offering peaceful swimming spots.
- The crossing of the Argens bridge, ideal for a family walk, with its succession of easily accessible shaded beaches.
- Trail of the Argens Plain: perfect for a morning outing, between rice fields and orchards, along the sparkling Var river.
| Itinerary | Difficulty | Distance | Main advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rochers de Roquebrune | Medium | 8 km | Red landscapes, swimming, viewpoints |
| Argens Bridge | Easy | 5 km | Shady areas, swimming, family-friendly |
| Argens Plain | Easy | 6 km | Preserved nature, diverse flora, tranquility |
The warm welcome from locals, the opportunity to spice up the walk with a few dives, and the richness of the Var trails make each escape even more unforgettable. Var Adventure takes on real meaning here! One piece of advice: bring a towel and a camera to capture these rare Var Évasion moments.
Roquebrune-sur-Argens: between hiking and living heritage
It is impossible to explore the Argens without stopping in Roquebrune, this emblematic village that offers privileged access to the Var river and its memorable panoramas. Let yourself be surprised by the palette of vivid colors of the rocks and calm waters, ideal for mixing Aqua Var with contemplative strolls.
- Rocks sculpted by the centuries, a source of inspiration for many artists.
- Small stone bridges for photo breaks with stunning views.
- Shady banks where you can stop for a picnic or a forest nap.
| Spot | Main activity | Local advice |
|---|---|---|
| Roquebrune | Hiking, swimming, photography | Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility |
| Banks of the Argens | Relaxation break | Plan a local lunch, specialties to taste |
The song of the cicadas, combined with the characteristic smell of heated pines, creates a unique sensory atmosphere. This corner of Var Outdoor embodies the art of slow-travel in the Provençal style and inspires the concept of gentle exploration at a personalized pace.
Complementary activities and escapes to explore Var differently
After the effort, the pleasure continues! The department is full of authentic Var escapes: between typical villages, historical heritage, and culinary experiences, every desire finds its answer.
- Perched villages (Tourtour, Cotignac, Bargème): ancient streets for stunning sunset walks.
- Troglodyte sites and castles: Villecroze or Entrecasteaux, immersion in another time.
- Aquatic excursions: paddling on the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix or venturing into the Verdon Gorges.
- Loops tracing local producers: stop by the oil mill, taste Solliès figs or farmhouse goat cheese.
- Traditional markets to find rare spices and local rosé.
| Var Destination | Memorable Experience | Visitor Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Tourtour | Sunset over the village square | Arrive early to find a terrace |
| Villecroze | Visit the troglodyte caves | Take a guide for historical anecdotes |
| Lake Sainte-Croix | Water sports, swimming | Rent a paddle early in the morning |
| Var markets | Culinary and artisanal products | Taste olives and chat with producers |
Want to continue your hiking explorations? Find new itinerary ideas on Explore Var or discover other must-see destinations for hiking enthusiasts ready to venture off the beaten path.
Var Outdoor and gastronomy: itineraries for gourmet breaks
On every outing, a tasting stop is a must! Provençal flavors beautifully complement the spirit of the Var trails, offering unforgettable moments of sharing around a picnic or a meal with locals.
- A platter of goat cheese, figs, and olives to enjoy by the Var river.
- Impromptu picnic with artisanal bread and chilled rosé under the pines.
- Tourtour market, a source of specialties to slip into your backpack before heading out to explore Nature Var.
| To Savor | Where? | Do not miss |
|---|---|---|
| Olives and olive oils | Producers of Ollioules | Tasting with a view of the olive groves |
| Solliès figs | At a producer’s, at the market | Ideal with fresh cheese |
| Farmhouse goat cheeses | Shepherds of Correns | Pair with a glass of local rosé |
To diversify your nature outing ideas, draw inspiration from selections like Var Évasion or discover how other regions are reinventing gourmet walks, as seen in new nature trends internationally.
Practical tips for successfully hiking along the Argens
Preparing for a Var Adventure day requires a bit of organization to fully enjoy the pleasures offered by the Var river. The magic of Var hikes lies as much in the chosen itinerary as in the quality of unplanned stops.
- Choose appropriate shoes, even for easy walks along the water.
- Plan sun protection, a hat, and a well-filled water bottle (several fountains line some Var trails).
- Opt for morning or late afternoon departures to avoid high heat and enjoy the golden light unique to the river.
- Remember to bring a waterproof bag for your devices: between Aqua Var and sun, it’s best to be prepared!
- Respect natural areas, pick without excess, and bring back all your waste.
| Equipment | Why is it useful? | Var Outdoor tip |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking shoes | Grip on rocks, long-lasting comfort | Prefer lightweight models for mixed trails |
| Hat and sunglasses | Effective sun protection | Wide-brimmed caps recommended |
| Insulated water bottle | Cool water all day long | Refill at water points along the route |
| Waterproof bag | Protect smartphone and picnic | Re-sealable bags are practical to slip into your backpack |
For those wishing to vary their hiking trails, other original options exist: thematic urban explorations, nature scooter trips, and international circuits to discover.
May your summer of 2025 resonate with disconnection, authenticity, and memorable memories, the Var escapes along the Argens invite you to slow down and enjoy every step. This corner of Provence proves that a river can be much more than a stream of water: it is the beating heart of adventure, the promise of a sensory and human journey, within reach of all curious sneakers.
