Nature Reserves in Var

The Var department features several protected areas. This collection highlights three key reserves: the Réserve Naturelle de la Plaine des Maures, known for its unique savannah-like landscape, and two biosphere reserves in the Esterel massif, the Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Mal-Infernet and the Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Perthus, which are characterized by their red volcanic rock formations.

The primary activities in Var's nature reserves are hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. There are over 380 routes available across the reserves, with options for jogging and touring bicycle rides as well. Specific collections of routes are available for different activities, such as MTB Trails at the Var.

Yes, there are routes suitable for families and beginners within Var's protected areas. The varied terrain offers trails with different difficulty levels. For a curated selection of accessible routes, see the guide to Family-friendly hikes at the Var.

The Réserve Naturelle de la Plaine des Maures offers approximately 35 hiking trails. These routes traverse a unique landscape of cork oak forests, heathland, and sandstone outcrops, often compared to a savannah. The area around Lac des Escarcets is a notable location for hiking within the reserve.

The reserves in the Esterel massif, such as the Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Mal-Infernet and Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Perthus, are defined by their striking red volcanic rock formations. The terrain consists of rugged hills and steep cliffs that contrast with the surrounding green vegetation. These landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for hiking and cycling.

Across the three main reserves featured, there are more than 140 designated hiking trails. The Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Perthus contains over 60 hiking routes, while the Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Mal-Infernet has more than 50. The Plaine des Maures reserve adds another 35 hiking trails.

Yes, mountain biking is a popular activity in these reserves, with more than 40 MTB trails available. The routes range from easy gravel paths to more technical singletrack. The Esterel massif reserves offer challenging terrain, while the Plaine des Maures provides different types of trail experiences.

Spring and autumn are generally considered ideal for hiking in the Var region, offering moderate temperatures and pleasant conditions. Summer can be very hot, requiring early starts and sufficient water. Winter is also a viable option for hiking, especially on coastal trails and at lower altitudes, though some higher elevation paths may be affected by weather.

Yes, cycling is a key activity in the Réserve Biologique Dirigée De Mal-Infernet. The reserve offers approximately 13 road cycling routes and 20 mountain bike trails. The terrain provides a mix of paved roads and off-road tracks through the distinctive red rock landscape of the Esterel massif.

The Plaine des Maures is the only National Nature Reserve located within the Var department. It was established to protect its exceptional biodiversity, including being a sanctuary for the endangered Hermann's tortoise. Its landscape is a unique mosaic of cork oak forests, umbrella pines, and heathland, which supports a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Yes, the nature reserves in Var offer a range of trail difficulties, including many easier options suitable for casual walkers. These routes often feature less elevation gain and are well-marked. A specific collection of easy hikes at the Var is available for finding suitable trails.

Besides the reserves on this page, the Var department is home to other significant protected areas. These include Port-Cros National Park, Europe's first marine park, and parts of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, which contains the Verdon Gorge. The Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Park is another major site, known for its relic forest and limestone massif.