Nans-les-Pins(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Sainte-Maxime, recommend staying at Hôtel Le Mas des Oliviers, a boutique farmhouse nestled among lavender fields with its own vegetable garden and rooftop pool, offering authentic Provence countryside charm. Located near the coast of Sainte-Maxime Beach, it provides easy access to family outings. The hotel serves French breakfast and hosts local wine tastings, allowing guests to immerse in Var Department’s slow-paced lifestyle. Nearby walking trails lead to ancient Roman ruins, making it ideal for intergenerational travel.

The best area for lodging is Old Town Sainte-Maxime (Village de Sainte-Maxime), located just steps from the seaside promenade and central market square. This historic district preserves 18th-century stone buildings and narrow alleys, glowing softly at night with Mediterranean ambiance. Local cafés, artisan markets, and evening events make it perfect for experiencing genuine Var Department daily life and culture.

Don’t miss the Lavender Harvest Festival (Fête de la Lavande) held annually in summer at nearby farms, where you can pick lavender and learn to craft sachets. Additionally, take part in a Mediterranean pottery workshop at the old village studio, guided by master artisans using local clay to create unique ceramics. These hands-on activities deeply connect you with the natural and traditional heritage of Provence.

Yes, Sainte-Maxime Beach (Plage de Sainte-Maxime) is ideal for families—calm waters, gentle slopes, and designated kids’ play zones with umbrellas and lifeguard services. Nearby attractions include Aquapark du Port, offering safe water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding. The shaded walking path leads directly into town, making it convenient for parents to stroll, shop, or dine after a beach day.

Beyond renowned restaurants, explore the daily farmers’ market (Marché de Producteurs) in the town center, where local producers sell fresh olive oil, tomato sauce, and handmade cheeses. Try the local specialty Galette de Lard (pork pie) with regional red wine. Another must-visit is La Table du Moulin, a century-old eatery famed for its stone-oven dishes, especially the signature duck leg with fennel potatoes, rich in flavor and tradition.

Nightlife in Sainte-Maxime is relaxed and romantic—small cafés like Le Bistrot des Senteurs host live jazz evenings paired with Provence rosé wine and tatar salad. Some seaside restaurants offer moonlight dinners with stargazing and local music. While not a party hub, it’s perfect for couples or friends seeking quiet, atmospheric evenings immersed in the Var Department’s tranquil yet vibrant rhythm.

Photographers should visit at sunrise to capture the lavender fields bathed in golden light, framed by distant hills and ancient church spires. The narrow stone alleyways of the old town cast dramatic shadows in late afternoon, ideal for urban street photography. For coastal shots, head to Quai de Cassarède—the reflection of sailboats and sunsets creates stunning compositions during golden hour.

Yes, despite being a small town, Sainte-Maxime offers excellent connectivity. Take the TER train from Marseille or Toulon to Sainte-Maxime Station, then transfer via bus or taxi in just 10 minutes. Free parking zones and bike rental stations are available within town, enabling easy exploration of surrounding villages and vineyards. Summer shuttle buses link major beaches and attractions, making it possible to enjoy a full itinerary without renting a car.

Yes, Mas des Lauriers is a restored 19th-century manor that sleeps up to 20 guests, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Featuring an open kitchen, outdoor fire pit, private pool, and spacious terrace, it’s perfect for weddings, family reunions, or corporate retreats. Nearby hiking trails lead to Roman ruins and lavender farms, offering customized team-building activities—making it one of the most popular group destinations in the Var Department.

The ideal time to visit is between May and September, when temperatures are warm and dry, and lavender blooms. June and August are peak seasons—book early. For quieter, more intimate visits, consider early May or mid-September, when crowds thin but weather remains pleasant. Don’t miss the Provence Music Festival in late July, held in the town square, featuring classical and folk performances—a highlight of the region’s cultural calendar.