The most beautiful villages around Fréjus: 10 must-see visits

Best activities in the Var: 

• Boat trip along the Esterel massif 
• Water park ticket: Aquasplash 
• Half-day vintage car tour to discover the Côte d'Azur
• Astronomy and hiking evening in Fréjus 
• Bike hire in Fréjus 
• Saint-Tropez: catamaran + aperitif evening 
• Full-day tour of Saint-Tropez + Port Grimaud 
• Ramatuelle: mountain bike tour through the vines + tasting  
• Saint-Tropez: catamaran + aperitif evening 
• Le Thoronet Abbey visit ticket 

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1. Roquebrune-sur-Argens, a pretty medieval village 

Located only about fifteen kilometres from Fréjus, Roquebrune-sur-Argens is a medieval village with a fascinating history at the foot of the famous Rocher de Roquebrune. This town offers an exceptional panorama over the Argens valley. As you wander its cobbled lanes, don't miss:

• The parish church of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul
• The fortified gates and ramparts of the village
• Charming little shaded squares and their fountains

Of course, you'll need to try the local specialities, including the handmade chocolates that Roquebrune is famous for.

2. Bagnols-en-Forêt, in the Var hinterland

About 18 km from Fréjus, Bagnols-en-Forêt is a charming hilltop village on the edge of the Esterel massif. Its unspoilt natural setting makes it a prime spot for hiking and outdoor activities fans. Among the highlights, we recommend going to see:

• The pretty village square with its centuries-old plane trees
• The superb Blavet gorges nearby
• Waymarked trails offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean

Note that Bagnols-en-Forêt is the ideal starting point for a day nature excursion.

3. Fayence with its Provençal charm

Wondering what to see around Fréjus? Here is one of the most beautiful hilltop villages in the Var, Fayence. It is about thirty kilometres from Fréjus. Renowned for its way of life and bucolic landscapes, it is full of architectural treasures:

• The 18th-century Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste
• Narrow lanes adorned with flowers and fountains
• The remains of the ramparts that offer a panoramic view over the plain

The Provençal market, held three times a week, is a chance to taste local produce and immerse yourself in the typical atmosphere of Provence.

4. Seillans, one of the most beautiful villages in France 

Near Fayence, Seillans fully deserves its ranking among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". Its medieval character has remained intact with:

• Calades (cobbled lanes) winding between the stone houses
• A central square shaded by centuries-old plane trees
• The Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-l'Ormeau and its remarkable frescoes

Seillans is also a haven for artists and art galleries where you can admire a variety of works. One to add to your map of the most beautiful villages in the Var.

5. Callas and its breathtaking panorama

Located about 30 km from Fréjus, Callas is a Provençal village known for its high-quality olive oil production. It is part of our top 10 most beautiful villages around Fréjus. Once there, don't miss going to see:

• Its traditional oil mills and olive estates
• The 16th-century parish church of Saint-Michel
• Its exceptional panorama from the viewpoint indicator

Another travel tip: don't leave without tasting Callas olive oil, which you can buy directly from local producers.

6. Bargemon, a jewel nestled in the Haut-Var

Located in a green valley, about 40 km from Fréjus, Bargemon is an authentic village and peaceful, which is also part of our top 10 most beautiful villages in the Var to visit. Its assets:

• Ancient fountains scattered throughout the village
• Charming flower-lined lanes and shaded squares
• The Church of Saint-Étienne, a listed historic monument dating from the 17th century

For nature lovers, the surroundings of Bargemon offer lovely hikes and walks in the heart of the Var countryside.

7. Tourtour, a village in the sky

Nicknamed the "village in the sky" because of its altitude (635 m), Tourtour is about an hour's drive from Fréjus. It is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" and offers:

• An exceptional panoramic view over green Provence
• Picturesque lanes and small squares lined with cafés and shops
• The Church of Saint-Denis, dating from the 12th century

If you're looking for tranquillity and an authentic Provençal experience, Tourtour is a must.

8. Les Arcs-sur-Argens in the heart of Provence

Located about thirty kilometres from Fréjus, Les Arcs-sur-Argens stands out for its medieval quarter of Le Parage. Not to be missed:

• The ramparts and the Clock Tower
• The steep lanes leading to typical stone houses
• The Provençal market and the friendly atmosphere of the village

Treat yourself to a tasting of local wines at the surrounding wine estates, which showcase the Var terroir.

9. Grimaud, between vineyards and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

About 34 km from Fréjus, towards Saint-Tropez, Grimaud charms with its medieval castle overlooking the Bay of Pampelonne. Take the opportunity to visit the historic centre dominated by the castle ruins and admire the breathtaking views over the bay and the vineyards. The village is dotted with flower-lined lanes and pretty Provençal squares

Don't miss Port Grimaud, the lakeside town a few kilometres away, often nicknamed the "Provençal Venice".

10. Gassin with its view of the Mediterranean

Also ranked among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", Gassin is perched more than 200 metres above sea level on a hill, offering an incredible panorama over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. You'll enjoy:

• The walk along the ramparts, from which you can admire the Mediterranean
• The small restaurants and terraces with panoramic views
• The picturesque houses with flower-covered façades

Gassin is the perfect destination for a romantic dinner overlooking the Var coast or if you're wondering what to see around Saint-Raphaël.

Practical tips for visiting the most beautiful villages around Fréjus

1. Car hire: To discover these villages around Fréjus, having a car is strongly recommended. Public transport serves some hilltop villages poorly.
2. Local gastronomy: Make the most of your visit to each village to taste Provençal specialities: tapenade, pissaladière, socca and the essential Var olive oil.

Outdoor activities: The area around Fréjus is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and climbing in the Var massifs. Do find out about the waymarked trails and outdoor activity spots.

FAQ: the most beautiful villages around Fréjus 

Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions

What is the prettiest village in the Var?

The Var is full of picturesque villages, but Seillans often comes out on top thanks to its ranking among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France".
Its medieval heritage, cobbled lanes and art galleries attract fans of history and Provençal culture.
You can also enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for immersing yourself in the authenticity of the south of France.
For a successful stay, don't miss the local gastronomy and the panoramas over the surrounding plain.

Is Fréjus nice?

Fréjus is a lively seaside resort, appreciated for its fine sand beaches and sunny atmosphere.
Its rich historical heritage, including the Roman amphitheatre and the cathedral, delights culture lovers.
There is a wide choice of activities: water sports, hiking in the Estérel massif or gastronomic discoveries.
In the evening, the town comes alive with many restaurants and bars, offering a friendly setting for holidaymakers.

Which village in Provence should you visit?

Fayence is a must for discovering authentic Provence, with its typical markets and traditional architecture.
Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding plain.
The maze of flower-lined lanes and the easy-going way of life make it a favourite destination for lovers of Provençal charm.
Foodies will enjoy the local market where you can taste olives, cheeses and other regional specialities.

What is the most beautiful city in the PACA region?

Nice, capital of the Côte d'Azur, charms with its Promenade des Anglais, its colourful Old Nice and its famous flower market.
It combines modernity, historical heritage and cultural richness, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Bay of Angels, its mild climate and lively nightlife make it a must-visit destination in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Its local cuisine, including socca and pissaladière, perfectly completes the Nice experience.

Where to go in the Var hinterland?

The Var hinterland is full of authentic villages such as Bargemon, Callas and Tourtour, nicknamed the "village in the sky".
These destinations combine tranquillity, green landscapes and remarkably well-preserved medieval heritage.
You can go hiking, taste local produce and discover a typically Provençal way of life.
Far from the bustle of the coast, it's the ideal place to recharge and enjoy the nature of the Var.

And that's where our article on the most beautiful villages around Fréjus ends. We hope all this information will help you plan your holiday on the Côte d'Azur, if you're coming to PACA. A unique place in the south of France for its picturesque villages and seaside. All that's left is to wish you a great trip to Fréjus and plenty of good vibes 😎