The 2.5-kilometre-long Chemin des peintres in the Saint-Clair district is lined with colour reproductions of paintings created in Le Lavandou. Together with a coastal cycle route on a former railway line, art venues, church art, the market and festivals, it offers a range of different highlights. The calendar is also important when planning your trip: the market takes place weekly, while guided tours and festivals are tied to specific dates.
Cycling between the coast and town
The former railway line of the “Train des Pignes” has been converted into a safe cycle path accessible to everyone. The route is 8 kilometres long, runs from Le Lavandou to Pramousquier and follows the seafront; it is particularly suitable for families. As local conditions can change, it is a good idea to check them before setting off. Another cycling route, the Piste cyclable du littoral – V65, also passes through Le Lavandou. The two descriptions offer different points of reference: the former railway line is specified by its length and destination, while the V65 is described as passing through the town.
Art and history
The Villa Théo in the Saint-Clair district is the former home of the Neo-Impressionist painter Théo Van Rysselberghe and forms part of Le Lavandou’s cultural and historical heritage. As an arts centre, it is open to the public and hosts various permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The Chemin des peintres also runs through the same district: along this cultural trail, the route is lined with colour reproductions of paintings created in Le Lavandou. You can experience art either in an exhibition at the arts centre or along a specifically named cultural trail.
Saint-Louis Church complements these cultural sites with specific historical and artistic details. It was built in 1855 through a fundraising campaign. Since summer 2009, a fresco in the tradition of icon-painting monks has adorned the choir. The church is also home to the “Vierge de Pitié” stained-glass window.
Restanques and recurring events
The Restanques de Saint-Clair can be visited and explored throughout the year. During the national event “Rendez-vous aux jardins”, the Le Lavandou Tourist Office organises guided tours of the site every year. Tour dates can change, so check them if you would like to plan your visit around a guided tour.
The Fête de la Saint-Pierre is Le Lavandou’s traditional fishing festival and takes place every year with the participation of fishers, the SNSM and recreational boaters. It includes a procession to the port of Le Lavandou and a blessing of boats at sea. The event programme may change. If you are planning your stay around the festival, check the dates.
Market and coastline from the port
The Marché Provençal du Lavandou takes place every Thursday morning throughout the year. Regional produce, Provençal specialities and crafts are among the offerings; market hours and vendors may change. Thursday morning provides a regular weekly schedule if you would like to include a visit to the market in your plans.
Boat trips depart from the Port du Lavandou, where you can admire the coastal scenery of Le Lavandou. Departures and operators may change, so check the specific departure details if you are planning a trip. The calendar events differ considerably: the market recurs weekly, the guided tours take place during “Rendez-vous aux jardins”, and the Fête de la Saint-Pierre is held annually.
Discover more destinations: Neoules, Bagnols-En-ForĂŞt, Pourcieux, Saint-Raphael, Signes, Rians, Collobrieres, Les Salles-Sur-Verdon
For the main travel overview: Var.
