Tour of Cavalaire-sur-Mer, a Natural Jewel of Provence

Close to many famous tourist destinations on the French Riviera such as Saint-Tropez and Cannes, Cavalaire sur Mer offers the perfect coastline to enjoy relaxing vacations away from the crowds. Like many other villages along the French coast, this small municipality originally started as a Greek colony known as Heraclea Caccabaria and later took the form of a typical fishing village where life was slow and peaceful. This continued until the 1950s when tourism began to make its way here, transforming it into an ideal destination for families and water sports enthusiasts.

Located on the southeastern coast of Provence, the town is part of the Var department, an administrative division of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, and offers wide, sunny beaches set in an exceptional natural environment. The green of the maritime pines and the blue of the Mediterranean contribute to creating the perfect color palette for a port town that is truly suitable for everyone.

The seaside village of Cavalaire sur Mer has managed to preserve and develop its distinct commercial and tourist spirit over the years. The PortHeraclea is its perfect representation: it is considered one of the most active ports in the area, and besides playing a vital role in the local economy, it serves as an excellent docking point for countless private boats traversing the waters of the Mediterranean. It is around the port and its surrounding areas that the city's tourist organization revolves, distinguished by its ability to offer the best services in terms of infrastructure, hotels, and restaurants.

Immersed in modernity, Cavalaire sur Mer still retains a Provençal spirit that can be tasted every Wednesday at the market. Here you will find the best local specialties such as preserves, cheeses, olive oil, Provençal herbs, as well as seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with the renowned rosé wine from the Gulf of Saint Tropez and the delicious tapenade. This is a Provençal dish made from olives, capers, anchovies, garlic, and oil, named after the Provençal term "tapenas," meaning caper. If instead, you want to experience an authentic moment that best represents the daily life of the village, head to the port in the morning to witness the fishermen's auction and the sale of fresh fish.

History enthusiasts can rummage through the town's past by visiting the Archaeological Exhibit, where treasures found during excavations tell the story of the village's Greek and Roman origins.

The coastline of Cavalaire sur Mer boasts 4 kilometers of sandy beaches that, even though located in a tourist area of France, offer a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. The Var territory features pristine nature, with its wide and fragrant pine forests, sprawling lush maquis, and beautiful hidden coves, each possessing a unique charm.

The main beach is the town beach: long and wide, it has a sparkling golden sandy shore and is characterized by clean and clear waters. The town beach is also equipped with convenient and clean facilities and restrooms. Overlooking the port, it offers opportunities to practice many water sports such as flyboarding and jet skiing. If you are looking for a special beach, head to the beautiful Plage de Bonporteau, characterized by fine sand and clear waters. After crossing a path lined with eucalyptus trees, tamarisks, and wild California palms, you will encounter a large cove with fine sand bordered by rocks. The beach is never crowded and is ideal for those who love peace and quiet, as well as for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Another beautiful beach not to be missed is Plage de Pardigon, located at the entrance of the village and surrounded by truly picturesque natural scenery, yet equipped with all basic amenities and easily accessible from the parking areas nearby.

In addition to offering beautiful beaches and typical restaurants where you can relax and enjoy your vacation, Cavalaire sur Mer also offers unique locations to enjoy outdoor activities on foot or by bike. For a leisurely stroll, you can explore the surrounding hills immersed in typical Mediterranean vegetation or take one of the most beloved trails: the Fenouillet trail.

This path, 2.5 kilometers long and perfectly marked, is situated between Plage de Bonporteau and the village of Dattier, offering wonderful panoramic views of the coastline and cliffs in an hour and a half. From here, you can also admire the 'white house' on the hill: this is the Foncin Estate, a grand residence dating back to the 1800s.

If you prefer to discover the town and its surroundings by bicycle, you will be happy to know that Cavalaire is located on the V65, a bike path that connects Sanary to Nice over more than 260 kilometers. The V65 will allow you to traverse the Var coastline following the coast or the inland route along the path of the old Provence railway.