Le LavandouLa Marina du Lavandou
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A Côte d’Azur getaway in Le Lavandou

The former fishing village of Le Lavandou is now a coastal resort that is truly worth visiting for its long beaches, clear waters, dolphins and countryside. Le Lavandou is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding natural environment.

In the land of dolphins and fishermen

Le Lavandou is a traditional fishing village at the foot of the Massif des Maures and opposite the Iles d’Or.  Although the village now only has a dozen or so fishermen, it was established just over a century ago by Genoese and Catalan fishermen attracted by the particularly bountiful fish stocks.

The many sightings of dolphins off its coast have earned it the nickname ‘Dolphin city’.

It is also part of the Pelagos sanctuary, a marine area covered by an international agreement to protect marine mammals.

Twelve kilometres of fine sandy beaches

Le Lavandou is also rightly known for its beaches. Take your pick from twelve fine sandy beaches stretching along almost twelve kilometres of coastline, from the Anglade to Pramousquier. Whether your interest is family outings, athletic pursuits or just to chill out, there is sure to be a beach for you. While each one has its own specific character, facilities have been provided to make access easy for everyone.

These pristine beaches form one of the town’s most beautiful nature spots and has been awarded the Blue Flag, Sea Stars and Swimming water certifications. So please remember to treat them with respect!

A bike ride for everyone

Do you want to cycle to the beach or simply find a different way of exploring Le Lavandou?

The former railway line of the Train des Pignes has been completely redeveloped, creating a safe cycle path accessible to all. This path, which is well-shaded by lush greenery, is particularly suitable for families. It runs along the sea for eight kilometres, from Le Lavandou to Pramousquier. To use it, simply take the second exist off the 1st DFL roundabout.

Two green spaces along the coast

When visiting Le Lavandou, you should make a point of visiting the Domaine du Rayol in the village of Rayol-Canadel. In this protected natural area, landscape designer Gilles Clément has designed: Le Jardin des Méditerranées (The Mediterranean gardens). It takes you on a journey through the Mediterranean landscapes of the world but also through landscapes with more arid or subtropical climates.

Another lush natural environment on the coast, still in Rayol-Canadel is the Corniche des Maures. Opposite the Iles d’Or, it is located halfway between Cap Bénat and the St Tropez peninsula. The steep sides of the Corniche (or cliff road) provides a dramatic change of scenery with breathtaking views over the crystal-clear waters of the bay.

We recommend that you to discover this jewel teeming with exceptional biodiversity, by going a guided visit with a nature guide who will reveal all its secrets.

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