Le Lavandou

Article updated in June 2025

Discover the lovely village of Le Lavandou

Le Lavandou is located at the foot of the Massif des Maures, on the seafront between Toulon and Saint-Tropez. Enjoying the Var's famous mild, dry climate, with almost 300 days of sunshine a year, the bay of Le Lavandou stretches out in verdant surroundings for over 12km along the Mediterranean. Once a small fishing port, Le Lavandou is now a major tourist destination, with a vast marina and fishing port marvelously situated opposite the Iles d'Or ("golden islands): Ile du Levant and Port Cros.

Don't miss the beaches of Le Lavandou

With no fewer than 12 beaches, 12 veritable jewels of fine sand, carefully maintained and supervised, Le Lavandou is one of the most renowned seaside resorts in the Var. Vast fine-sand beaches and small, unspoilt coves are yours to explore in complete safety. Steep, family-friendly, sporty... you can try them out one by one before choosing your favorite.

Each has its own name: l'Anglade, la Grande Plage, la plage de Saint-Clair, la plage de la Fossette, plage d'Aiguebelle, plage de l'Eléphant, plage de Jean-Blanc, plage du Rossignol, plage du Layet, plage de Cavalière, plage du Cap Nègre, plage de Pramousquier. A diver's paradise, the quality of its water, seabed and beaches has been rewarded by several labels: Pavillon Bleu (beach, port and water quality), Pavillon Etoile de Mer (Qualimer, seawater quality), Pélagos (marine mammal sanctuary).

Where to go for a walk around Le Lavandou ?

The little beach train and the surrounding villages

A great classic is to take the little beach train, which takes you from beach to beach around the town of Le Lavandou (remember to book your ticket in advance!). You can also discover the superb neighbouring villages of Cavalaire and Bormes-les-Mimosas with one of our guide friends (link below).

Excursions from the port.

From the port of Le Lavandou, you can take one of the many daily shuttles to the magnificent islands of Porquerolles, Iles du Levant or Port Cros. Boat excursions are also available to discover the Var coastline by the sea, to the Fort de Brégançon in Bormes (summer residence of the French President) or to Saint Tropez.

Here, you'll find one dream villa after another on estates overlooking the sea, with luxury boats at anchor.

Walks around Le Lavandou

A superb walk along the seafront is the coastal path, which offers 3 km of pleasure from the Port du Lavandou (start on the right of the tunnel), passing through Saint Clair and La Fossette.

Inland, there's a lovely 6km hiking trail from Le Lavandou to the old village of Bormes: the Sentier Saint-François, (marked in red). The area around Le Lavandou is nothing like the small fishing village it once was.

It is divided into 5 large districts along the bay: Saint Clair, La Fossette, Aiguebelle, Cavalière and Pramousquier. Despite the summer crowds, all the tourist accommodation and the many recent constructions that have changed this part of the Var coast, Le Lavandou remains a privileged site that's a must-see! You'll find our accommodation recommendations below.

The market in Le Lavandou

During your stay in Le Lavandou, don't miss the year-round Provencal market held every Thursday morning. It's a great opportunity to stock up on local crafts, Var culinary specialities and good cheer!

Your questions about Le Lavandou

Here are some answers to the questions we regularly receive about Le Lavandou.

What to do in Le Lavandou ?

1. Beach Time: Le Lavandou is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. Spend some time relaxing on the beach, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, or engaging in water sports.

2. Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming old town with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and local shops. It's a great place to discover the local culture and maybe find some souvenirs.

3. Port of Le Lavandou: Visit the port area to see the fishing boats and yachts. It's a lovely place for a stroll and to enjoy views of the sea.

4. Îles d'Or Boat Trip: Take a boat trip to the Îles d'Or (Golden Islands) which include Porquerolles, Port-Cros, and Île du Levant. Each island has its own unique charm, and you can enjoy beaches, nature walks, and historical sites.

5. Hiking: The surrounding area offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean. Check out the Sentier du littoral for a coastal walk.

6. Water Activities: Engage in water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, or even renting a boat for a day of exploration along the coast.

7. Local Cuisine: Sample the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and cafes. Being a coastal town, seafood is often a highlight on the menu.

8. Wine Tasting: Provence is known for its wines, and you can explore local vineyards and participate in wine tastings to savor the regional flavors.

9. Events and Festivals: Check the local calendar for events and festivals happening during your visit. These could include cultural events, music festivals, or traditional celebrations.

10. Art Galleries: Le Lavandou has a vibrant arts scene. Explore local art galleries to appreciate the work of regional artists.

Remember that the specific attractions and activities may vary, so it's a good idea to check the local tourism office or online resources for the latest information and recommendations based on your interests and the time of year you plan to visit.

What's the best beach in Le Lavandou?

Le Lavandou is known for its stunning beaches, and opinions on the most beautiful beach can vary depending on personal preferences. However, one of the most popular and often considered among the most beautiful is Plage de Saint-Clair. Here are some reasons why it is highly regarded:

• Scenic Beauty: Plage de Saint-Clair is known for its clear turquoise waters and fine sandy beach. The surrounding landscape is picturesque, with hills and greenery providing a beautiful backdrop.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The beach has a family-friendly atmosphere and is suitable for visitors of all ages. The calm waters make it a good choice for swimming, and the sandy shore is ideal for sunbathing and building sandcastles.

• Charming Setting: The beach is located in a charming cove, creating a more secluded and intimate atmosphere compared to some larger beaches. It's a great place for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the Mediterranean.

• Services and Amenities: Plage de Saint-Clair is equipped with facilities such as restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Additionally, there are rental services for beach equipment.

While Plage de Saint-Clair is often highlighted, Le Lavandou has several other beautiful beaches worth exploring, including Plage de Cavalière, Plage de l'Anglade, and Plage du Rossignol, each with its own unique charm. Ultimately, the "most beautiful" beach is subjective and depends on your preferences for scenery, activities, and ambiance.