Three unusual walks in the Var!

The Grand Baou waterfall, 15 minutes from Brignoles and 1h10 by car from the campsite

The Var is better known for its beaches than for its waterfalls and rivers, but there are plenty of wonderful places to discover ! Today, discover the Grand Baou waterfall , just an hour from the campsite in the village of Le Val. A magnificent waterfall in a protected natural area, it’s sure to give you a change of scenery for a day, with family or friends, as you hike along the trails of this beautiful site.

From the car arrival area, a short footpath of just a few dozen metres leads to the bathing area. You’ll be strolling through a magical landscape: here a small cave, further on tormented rocks… Throughout your walk in this corner of the Var, keep your eyes open to observe the diversity of flora and fauna. You may spot bird species typical of the region, as well as unique plants and wild flowers. Be sure to bring all-terrain shoes, as there are many different ways of getting through the water, depending on the season and the time of year.

When you reach the water jets, you’ll be able to admire the turquoise-tinted water that invites you to take a dip. In summer, the temperature can rise to 18° C, for a refreshing dip after a hard day’s work. Smaller basins follow one another with multiple cascades – kids will love it! The Grand Baou waterfall is a must-see for nature lovers. With its crystal-clear waters flowing into a natural basin, it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day. The area around the waterfall is perfect for a picnic, so don’t forget to pack a snack!

Provenc’ânes, a ride for all ages!

Do your children love animals? If so, they’ll be delighted by this trip in the Var region, in the heart of Provence, accompanied by pack donkeys! Provenc’ânes, located in Rians, offers walks in the sublime massifs of Provence in the company of adorable donkeys, who will make your walk unusual and unique! Choose your favorite walk in the heart of the Var between Le Tour de la montagne d’Artigues and Le Mont Major. Dreaming of a great donkey ride? Then book a multi-day tour (3 to 8 days) to the summit of Sainte Victoire, around Lake Esparron de Verdon or to Lake Sainte Croix.

Bernadette, who has been passionate about donkey breeding for 30 years, welcomes you to the heart of a Provencal hillside, on a once-abandoned natural estate in the village of Rians. She decided to develop this area for the breeding of donkeys, who live in a herd in a natural, protected environment. In their element, they help to maintain the forest and prevent fires. One thing’s for sure: this hike is sure to delight young and old alike! Bernadette offers family hikes from September to June, as well as hikes of one or more days in the company of a pack donkey.

Vélorail de la Sainte-Baume à Pourcieux: an unusual ride for the whole family!

Here’s the third of our selection of unusual rides in the Var! The concept is an original one: you drive a pedal-powered train along an old railroad line – yes, you read that right! In 2 to 5-seater pedal-powered wagons, you’ll embark on an unusual 2-hour ride in the heart of nature. This electrically-assisted ride is perfect for young and old alike! Pedal at your own pace along this former railroad line, admiring the surrounding vineyards, forests and mountains. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to discover the splendid Var countryside! Along the way, don’t miss the breathtaking views of the Sainte-Baume massif and the region’s vineyards.

After explanations and safety instructions for your ride at Pourcieux station, you’ll board your Vélorail for a 2-hour ride through the countryside, on an old railroad line linking Pourcieux and Saint-Maximin, on the border between the Var and Bouches-du-Rhône departments. Along the unique 15km round-trip trail, you’ll pass through some unusual places: a 180m-long tunnel (no total darkness), bridges and 2 impressive 20m-high viaducts (no fear of heights), offering panoramic views over the valley and the village of Saint-Maximin.