Monuments and cultural sites to discover in the Var! (episode 2)

Thanks to its many heavenly spots, the Côte d’Azur is a very popular destination every year! It’s also home to a number of cultural sites that are not to be missed. The Presqu’Île de Giens and its surrounding towns do their utmost to promote their cultural heritage. Find out more about our selection of cultural sites in the Var!

Cultural monuments around the Presqu’Île de Giens

The Carmignac Foundation in Porquerolles

Located on the island of Porquerolles, in the heart of the national park, Villa Carmignac invites you every year for an exciting cultural discovery! Contemporary art exhibitions, a sculpture garden and temporary exhibitions bathed in natural light are sure to amaze you!

When you arrive at the foundation, you’ll discover a Provençal farmhouse blending into the landscape. Inside, you’ll have the chance to admire 2,000m2 of exhibition space. Outside, you’ll find a 15-hectare garden filled with works inspired by the site! We recommend reserving your ticket on the Fondation Carmignac website.

Cultural sites less than 20 kilometers from the Presqu’île de Giens

The Cap Garonne Mining Museum in Le Pradet

Come and discoverone of the five most beautiful mineralogical sites in the world… in Le Pradet! The Cap Garonne Mine is a real living lesson. It retraces the life of the miners to the history of the rock, and opens the doors to ancient copper mines. During your excursion, you can discover one of its greatest treasures: its collection of minerals and micro-minerals.

On the program: scenes on the history of the mine, geology, metallurgy and a temporary exhibition area.

La Mine du Cap Garonne is an exceptional site with panoramic views of the Hyères islands and Toulon harbor. You’ll find plenty of paths nearby for strolling. Only ⅓ of the museum is open to the public. It’s also possible to discover it on a guided tour. Tour prices range from 2 to 7 euros, depending on your age and status. Visit the museum website for more details.

Cultural monuments less than 100 kilometers from the Presqu’île de Giens

Hông Hiên Tu Pagoda in Fréjus

Pass through a magnificent wooded park to discover the oldest pagoda in Europe, the Hông Hiên Tu pagoda, based in Fréjus and still in operation. It’s a veritable invitation to a Buddhist spiritual journey.

Built at the request of Indochinese soldiers in 1915, the Hông Hiên Tu Pagoda enabled them to practice their religion. It respects traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture and is adorned with sacred statues and shimmering colors.

Did you know? The Buddhist rainbow flag was created in 1880. The colors on the flag that dominates the pagoda mean many things: blue (meditation), yellow (thought), red (energy), white (serene faith), orange (intelligence), multi-colored (non-discrimination).

Book your stay at one of our partner campsites

Thanks to its ideal geographical location, the Presqu’Île de Giens is the starting point for a wide range of visits. Find out more about our campsites in the Var and their accommodation.

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