The Var: Provence’s Sun-Drenched Heart of Coast, Countryside & Easy Living

The Var (83) is one of those rare places in France that feels instantly familiar, even to newcomers. Perhaps it’s the golden light that spills across the vineyards, the fragrance of pine and wild herbs drifting through the hills, or the long sweep of Mediterranean coastline that makes every corner feel like a holiday. Sitting between the glamour of the Côte d’Azur and the rustic charm of inland Provence, the Var manages to be both wonderfully diverse and effortlessly liveable.

This is a department where life unfolds at a slower rhythm, shaped by nature, sea, and sunshine. With over 300 days of sun each year, thriving Provençal markets, charming hilltop villages, and some of the most beautiful beaches in France, it’s no surprise that the Var has become a firm favourite for expats seeking a lifestyle upgrade—whether for retirement, remote working, or a second home in a world-class Mediterranean setting.

A Landscape of Rich Contrasts

The Var’s geography is a tapestry of coastal glamour, forested massifs, vineyard-covered valleys, and dramatic river gorges.

⭐ The Coastline: Mediterranean Beauty

The Var boasts more than 400km of coastline, filled with:

• Turquoise coves and sandy beaches

• Protected islands like Porquerolles and the Port-Cros National Park

• Seaside towns such as Bandol, Sanary-sur-Mer, Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël

• And yes, even the edges of Saint-Tropez

This is classic Provence: azure waters, palm-lined promenades, bustling marinas, and summer evenings stretching into warm nights.

🌿 The Interior: Authentic Provence

Travel inland and the landscape softens into rolling hills and forests. Vineyards dominate the countryside—especially around Lorgues, Flayosc, Cotignac, and Le Thoronet—offering a more tranquil and authentic Provençal lifestyle than the busy coastline.

Highlights include:

• The dramatic Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon

• The peaceful Lac de Sainte-Croix, famed for swimming and pedalos

• Iconic villages such as Tourtour “the village in the sky,” Aups, Salernes, and Bagnols-en-Forêt

• Endless walking paths in the Massif des Maures and Massif de l’Estérel

Towns & Villages: A Place for Every Lifestyle

Toulon – The Underrated Mediterranean City

Once overlooked, Toulon has transformed into a vibrant port city with:

• Beaches

• A bustling market (one of Provence’s largest)

• A cable car rising to Mont Faron’s panoramic views

• Excellent transport links, including a TGV station and ferry connections

It offers the best of both worlds: coastal living with real urban convenience.

Draguignan – The Var’s Inland Hub

Set among vineyards and olive groves, Draguignan is the Var’s inland capital—lively yet manageable, with museums, shops, and easy access to the surrounding villages.

Saint-Tropez & Surrounds – Glamour and Hidden Eco-Beaches

The legendary village needs no introduction, but the peninsula also hides quieter gems:

• Ramatuelle with its long Pampelonne beach

• Gassin perched high above the Gulf

• La Croix-Valmer with protected landscapes

Picturesque Villages Full of Character

Each has its own charm:

• Cotignac – troglodyte caves, waterfalls, and warm community life

• Tourtour – sweeping views and a refined vibe

• Fayence – known for gliding, market culture, and relaxed yet elegant living

• Le Castellet – beautifully restored medieval village

Lifestyle: Why So Many Expats Choose the Var

The Var offers an enviable mix of:

🌞 Climate

Mild winters, long summers, early springs, and golden autumns make year-round outdoor living easy.

🍷 Food & Wine Culture

Home to the world’s leading rosé region, the Var is dotted with vineyards producing celebrated Provence rosés. Local food includes:

• Olive oils

• Fresh seafood

• Truffles (especially around Aups)

• Provençal vegetables and herbs

Markets are central to daily life—vibrant, colourful, and essential.

🏄 Outdoor Living

Everything revolves around nature:

• Swimming, sailing, and kayaking

• Hiking through pine forests

• Cycling routes through wine country

• Exploring France’s most impressive natural wonder, the Verdon Gorge

🎭 Culture & Events

From jazz festivals in seaside towns to village fêtes celebrating lavender or figs, the Var buzzes with Provençal warmth and tradition.

Property in the Var: What to Expect

The Var offers a wide range of property options depending on location and lifestyle:

⭐ Coastal Areas

Expect higher prices—this is prime Mediterranean real estate with strong rental potential. You’ll find:

• Modern apartments near marinas

• Luxury villas with sea views

• Stylish new-build developments

🌿 Inland Provence

Better value and more space:

• Stone mas and farmhouses with land

• Village houses full of character

• Bastides set among vineyards

• Newly built villas with pools, often at attractive prices compared to the coast

💶 Budget Guide

• Inland village house: €200,000–€350,000

• Modern villa with pool (inland): €400,000–€600,000

• Seaview properties: €900,000+

• Saint-Tropez peninsula: €2M–€10M+

The Var is popular with international buyers, so the market is active, especially in spring and early autumn.

Living in the Var as an Expat

The Var is particularly well-suited for:

• Retirees

• Remote workers

• Sailing and watersports lovers

• Food and wine enthusiasts

• Families wanting sunshine and outdoor living

You’ll find English-speaking groups, international schools nearer the coast, and excellent healthcare facilities. Transport is strong too, with:

• TGV to Paris from Toulon or Les Arcs–Draguignan

• Toulon–Hyères Airport

• Nice Airport (used by many Var residents)

Should You Move to the Var?

If you dream of a life shaped by sunshine, the sea, vineyards, and Provençal culture, the Var may be the perfect match. It blends the glamour of southern France with pockets of authentic village life, offering something for every lifestyle and every stage of life.