Holiday rentals Var

Three iconic places to discover in the Var

The Var is home to natural and heritage sites of exceptional beauty. With its spectacular geology, Cistercian architecture and unspoilt islands, the region offers plenty of reasons to venture off the beaten track. Here are three destinations that epitomise the region’s richness and are well worth a visit during your stay.

1. The Verdon Gorges

The Gorges du Verdon are one of Europe’s most impressive karst landscapes. Carved by the river through limestone rock, they form a canyon of dizzying proportions, with walls soaring to over 700 metres. At the Var end of the gorges, the landscape softens into Lake Sainte-Croix, whose turquoise waters contrast sharply with the grey, rocky cliffs. The village of Aiguines, perched high above, offers breathtaking panoramic views. You can explore the gorges on foot, by canoe or simply by admiring the viewing points dotted along the site.

2. Thoronet Abbey

Founded in the 12th century in the Maures mountains, Thoronet Abbey remains a masterpiece of Provençal Romanesque simplicity. This Cistercian monastery, well-preserved and listed as a historic monument, exudes a serenity that the centuries have left untouched. Its simple cloisters, vaulted church and monastic cells bear witness to the monks’ austere way of life. A visit to this abbey, often undertaken in silence, invites you to take a moment of contemplation. The building seems suspended outside the flow of time, enveloped by the Mediterranean vegetation that surrounds the site.

3. Porquerolles Island

Porquerolles, the largest of the Hyères islands, combines unspoilt nature with military history. Its white sandy beaches, fringed with umbrella pines, remain sparsely developed, contrasting with the overcrowded mainland coastline. Inland, the vineyards produce renowned wines, and the woodland paths are perfect for walking. Fort Sainte-Agathe, a listed Napoleonic bastion, tells the story of the defensive strategies of the era. The island forms part of the Port-Cros National Park, which ensures the preservation of its marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

These three places embody the contrasts of the Var: the raw energy of the limestone landscape, the mineral spirituality of the medieval heritage, and the gentle island charm of the Mediterranean. A holiday here allows you to explore several of them, depending on whether you’re looking for hiking, culture or a relaxing seaside break.

The ideal season to book a holiday let in the Var

Each season transforms the Var. This Mediterranean department takes on a different character depending on the time of year, and holiday lets are suited to each of them.

Spring arrives gently. Temperatures rise, flowers dot the hills of Provence, and the beaches begin to feel welcoming. This is the season when the Var comes to life: the terraces fill up, the hiking trails invite you to explore, and the summer crowds have not yet taken over the coast. Holiday rentals therefore offer an excellent balance between tranquillity and available activities.

Summer establishes the Var as a seaside destination. The sun reigns supreme, the sea reaches its most pleasant temperature, and the department’s energy becomes palpable. Fishing ports are bustling, coastal villages are alive with activity, and the days grow longer to make the most of every moment. It is also the busiest time of year: holiday rentals are in short supply and prices rise. However, for those who love a lively atmosphere and long days spent swimming, this is the perfect time.

Autumn paints the Var in warm hues. The heat lingers without being oppressive, the grape harvest brings the hinterland to life, and the light turns golden. The beaches gradually empty, offering more space and tranquillity. Holiday rentals return to reasonable rates whilst the weather remains favourable. It’s a wonderful time of year for those seeking balance and serenity.

Winter is mild in Provence. Unlike the rest of France, the Var does not shut down. Temperatures remain mild, sunny days abound, and the department takes on an intimate atmosphere. Holiday rentals then welcome visitors seeking a winter escape, far from the cold of the north.

A holiday rental remains the ideal option whatever the season. It offers the flexibility to tailor your stay to the climate and atmosphere of your choice, without the constraints of a hotel booking schedule.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Var

The Var offers a wide range of experiences that reflect its Mediterranean landscapes and natural heritage. With its seaside, mountains and wine-growing traditions, holidaymakers will find plenty of varied and enriching things to discover. Here are three unmissable experiences that embody the spirit of a Var holiday.

1. Sailing amongst the calanques and the Hyères islands

The crystal-clear waters and white cliffs are one of the most beautiful hallmarks of the Mediterranean coastline. The Calanques of Hyères are best appreciated from the sea, accessible by boat, offering secluded coves and small beaches nestled amongst the rocks. The Hyères archipelago, also known as the Îles d’Or, completes this getaway with its unspoilt, wild landscapes. These boat trips delight photography enthusiasts as well as those who simply wish to swim in clear waters, far from crowded beaches.

Address: Port de Hyères, 83400 Hyères.

2. Hiking in the Massif des Maures

The Massif des Maures is a major hiking destination in the Var, with trails winding through forests of cork oaks, pines and chestnut trees. The trails vary in difficulty to suit all levels, from casual walkers seeking peaceful natural surroundings to seasoned hikers. The panoramic views from the ridges take in both the inland countryside and, on a clear day, the sea in the distance. Hilltop villages such as Collobrières, renowned for their production of marrons glacés, offer welcome culinary stops.

Address: 83610 Collobrières.

3. Tasting Provence’s rosé wines at a wine cellar

The Provence Wine Route takes visitors through the vineyard-dotted landscapes that characterise the Var region. The wineries welcome wine lovers for tastings where you can discover the subtleties of local rosés, renowned for their finesse and freshness. These visits combine learning about the vineyards, the history of the grape varieties and regional cuisine, often complemented by local specialities. An ideal, relaxing activity for late afternoons.

Address: Provence Wine Route, 83740 La Cadière-d’Azur.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in the Var

When choosing a holiday rental in the Var, the amenities are just as important as the location. Travellers are looking above all for comfort so they can make the most of their holiday, whether they’re staying with their family or as a couple. In a region where summers are hot and sunny, certain amenities are essential to ensure a truly restful break.

• Air conditioning or ventilation: essential in the Var, where summer temperatures can be high. It ensures a peaceful night’s sleep and offers moments of cool relief during the hottest days.
• Direct access to the beach or swimming pool: sought after by the majority of visitors. A swim right on the doorstep turns every day of your stay into a relaxing experience.
• Terrace or balcony: appreciated for al fresco dining and enjoying Mediterranean sunsets. It’s a natural extension of the accommodation during the summer.
• Fully equipped kitchen: many families enjoy preparing their own meals. A functional kitchen with hob, oven and fridge in good condition remains a much sought-after classic.
• Parking or garage: a convenience that’s often overlooked but much appreciated for worry-free parking in coastal tourist areas or historic villages.
• Wi-Fi and television: to stay connected or relax in the evening. Children in particular appreciate this option on rainy days, although these are rare in the Var.
• Washing machine: a major asset for extended stays or families with children. It reduces the number of suitcases and simplifies the organisation of your stay.
• Heating: useful outside the summer season. April, May and September offer pleasant temperatures, but the evenings can be cool.
• High-quality bedding: a good mattress and fresh sheets make all the difference after a day of exploring or at the beach.

Finding the right holiday let means checking that the facilities match your actual needs: the number of people staying, the length of your stay and your budget will determine your priorities. A couple looking for peace and quiet won’t be seeking the same amenities as a family of five in July.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in the Var?

Prices for holiday rentals in the Var vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 50 and 100 euros per night in low season, and between 80 and 150 euros in high season. A family property with three to four rooms tends to cost between 100 and 200 euros per night in the off-season, and between 150 and 300 euros during the summer months. More spacious or upmarket properties regularly exceed 300 euros, and can reach 500 euros or more depending on the facilities and the view.

Location plays a key role: a holiday let by the sea or near well-known tourist resorts commands significantly higher rates than a house further inland. The length of stay also affects the price. Weekly bookings or stays during off-peak periods often benefit from attractive sliding-scale rates. Booking for several weeks generally allows you to negotiate or access special offers that reduce the daily cost.

Seasonality has a strong impact in the Var. July and August see the highest prices, whilst autumn, winter and spring offer more favourable rates. Before making a decision, compare listings, read reviews from previous guests and check the cancellation terms. Booking well in advance improves your chances of finding a rental offering the best value for money.