Provencal Authenticity and Hospitality
French Riviera - Saint Tropez - Massif des Maures - Saint Maximin & Sainte Baume - Sainte Victoire - Bandol - Hyères and Porquerolles Island - Gorges du Verdon - Thoronet Abbey - Cotignac - Fréjus & Saint Raphaël - Esterel
The Massif des Maures is a mountain range located in the Var department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Stretching for about sixty kilometers, it is bordered by the towns of Hyères and Fréjus, along the Mediterranean coast.
From the Giens Peninsula, near Hyères, to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the rugged coastline of the massif offers spectacular landscapes of beaches, coves, and rocky promontories.
The interior of the massif is a wild territory. Its rugged terrain and steep slopes are covered with dense forests of cork oaks, pines, and chestnut trees. The roads crossing the massif are narrow and winding, adding to its charm and secluded character.
The name of the Massif des Maures derives from its dark and impenetrable appearance, evoked by its Provençal name "Lei Mauro", meaning "the Black Mountain." According to some historians, this name also recalls the presence of the Moors, a people from North Africa who occupied the region between the 8th and 9th centuries, launching raids across Provence.
The interior of the massif is home to several picturesque villages worth visiting, such as:
The coastline also features iconic villages, including:
These villages, with their Provençal charm and Mediterranean ambiance, contribute to the region's tourist appeal.
The Massif des Maures, between sea and mountains, captivates with its natural heritage, rich history, and typical villages. A must-visit destination for lovers of nature and authenticity.