Between azure sea and glowing red rocks, the Terre d'Estérel region promises you an intoxicating getaway…
Besides its bountiful vineyards, which you'll savor with both your palate and your eyes, this destination holds many splendors. From the bay of Agay to Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël, follow our recommended itinerary to discover one surprise after another.
3 days
Duration
133 km
Itinerary
4
Vineyards
Step 1
Roquebrune-sur-Argens
A charming thousand-year-old village & its Maison du Terroir (Local Heritage Centre)
Begin your adventure by discovering Roquebrune-sur-Argens, Roquebrune, a charming medieval village nestled at the foot of its imposing rock, is a thousand-year-old town whose history dates back to the 11th century. Its cobbled streets exude Provençal charm, transporting you to another era. Stroll along the Rue des Portiques, lined with arcaded houses in warm colors, a testament to the village's expansion in the 16th century. Admire the elegant Clock Tower, built upon the old ramparts, and the imposing parish church of Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul, both listed as Historical Monuments. Around a bend in the alley, you'll reach the Place Perrin, shaded by plane trees, and discover the Saint-Michel Chapel and the Anfred Tower, vestiges of Roquebrune's medieval past. Finally, don't miss the breathtaking view from the Castrum, the former fortified stronghold of the Lords of Roquebrune. From up there, you can contemplate the stunning panorama of the lower Argens Valley.
In the heart of the village, the Local Products House This is an invitation to discover local flavors. A group of producers from Roquebrune, everything here is 100% local: fragrant olive oils, homemade jams, golden honeys, and Côtes de Provence wines. The tasting continues with delicious artisanal chocolates crafted by our village's master chocolatiers – a gourmet break is a must!
Leave the center of Roquebrune-sur-Argens and head towards the Vaudois Castle, Located just 10 minutes away, this exceptional wine estate awaits you for a unique gastronomic experience: an elegant picnic amidst the vineyards, Prepared according to the chef's inspiration. Imagine yourself comfortably seated on a checkered tablecloth, under the Mediterranean breeze, surrounded by rows of vines stretching as far as the eye can see. The gourmet basket awaiting you has been carefully prepared to showcase the flavors of Provence. Enjoy the view and savor a fine bottle of wine from the estate. to fully immerse yourself in the Provençal way of life!
After your meal, enjoy a short stroll among the vines to learn more about the grape varieties grown and the winemaking methods used at the estate. A bucolic and gourmet break will leave you with a delightful memory of this getaway to the Estérel region.
Recognized as one of the best in Europe, the Terre Blanche Spa is a 3200m² wellness sanctuary nestled in the heart of lush nature. Begin your experience by enjoying the sauna to purify your body, the hammam to relax your muscles, or the laconium for gentle detoxification. For a refreshing contrast, don't hesitate to try the ice fountain. Then, treat yourself a moment of pure serenity in the superb indoor pool. Bathed in natural light, it offers an idyllic setting for swimming laps or simply relaxing. Signature treatments created on-site and inspired by the Provençal environment are also available.
Before leaving, stop by the relaxation room to enjoy a herbal tea while admiring the beauty of the surrounding Provençal landscape. This step will allow you to recharge your batteries in an exceptional setting combining luxury, nature and well-being.
To end this day in style, treat yourself to a night at Mas des Romarins, A typically Provençal building, fully renovated to combine charm and modern comfort. Surrounded by vineyards and located a few minutes from the historic village of Fayence, the Mas invites you to relax.
His philosophy emphasizes ecology, a return to nature, and understated elegance. With its four charming and tastefully decorated rooms, you'll enjoy the perfect atmosphere to unwind after a busy day. Your hosts will also welcome you with a fine bottle of wine from the vineyards of the Pays de Fayence, which you can enjoy in their company during a convivial moment.
Classified as the Most Beautiful Village in France
On this second beautiful morning, we headed towards one of Provence's perched gems, the village of Seillans. Typically Provençal with its landscapes of vineyards and olive groves and its elevated position, it seduces with its authentic charm and rich heritage.
Begin your visit with the Saracen Gate, a vestige of the old fortifications. Stroll through the maze of cobbled lanes and vaulted passages, and admire the ochre houses with their russet tiles, harmoniously terraced on the hillside. Stop at the Place du Thouron, the vibrant heart of the village, not forgetting the Chapel of Our Lady of the Elm, a 12th-century jewel nestled in a verdant setting.
Seillans is also marked by the artistic legacy of Max Ernst, an emblematic figure of Surrealism, who spent the last years of his life there with his wife Dorothea Tanning. Visit the Tanning-Ernst Donation to discover their works and the influence of this Provençal village on their art. With the Art and Local Products Market, the Potters' Market, and the Christmas Market, the town is lively all year round and has obtained the City and Crafts label.
If you're passing through during the warmer months, take advantage of this stop to enjoy a refreshing break at Saint-Aygulf, on the coast, just before Fréjus. This popular seaside resort, lined with umbrella pines and fine sand, is the perfect place to relax in the sun or enjoy water sports. Several beaches stretch for a few kilometers, including the Esclamandes beach, the largest sandy beach in Saint-Aygulf.
After swimming, head towards Frejus Its rich historical heritage is definitely worth a visit. Formerly founded as "Forum Julii," this historic site houses impressive remains that testify to the city's grandeur during Roman times. Its amphitheater, in particular, which can accommodate up to 10,000 spectators, continues to host cultural events. Stroll through the cobbled streets of historic center where you can admire the majestic Saint Leonce Cathedral, a striking example of medieval Provençal architecture. Nearby is the cloister, a true treasure with its medieval paintings unique in France. Finally, Fréjus is also renowned for its colorful Provençal markets, where local scents and flavors explode under the sun.
Immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere of Mas des Escaravatiers, The summer gathering place for all generations. In summer, the Mas transforms and welcomes the public around its magnificent swimming pool. concerts enliven the evening in the gentle warmth of the late afternoon. On Sundays, the Mas also offers lively brunches, with breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards. It's the perfect opportunity to relax with family or friends, while enjoying’a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.
The day ends at Clos des Roses, an exceptional wine estate located just 3 km from the center of Fréjus, at the foot of the magnificent Esterel Massif. At dinnertime, treat yourself to a meal at the restaurant of the Bastide du Clos des Roses, where the chef, deeply attached to his local region, creates refined dishes every day using an extraordinary range of seasonal produce. selection of wines from the estate It also elegantly accompanies the meal. After this pleasant epicurean interlude, you will spend the night in one of the 8 charming rooms of the Bastide, with breathtaking views of the vineyards.
The next day, you can enjoy breakfast on the terrace before swimming a few laps in the outdoor pool as the peaceful surroundings awaken. Then, take some time to explore this 36-hectare haven of tranquility in the beautiful morning light. Your hosts will offer you a guided tour of the estate, The tour includes a visit to the charming local stone chapel, the vineyards, and the wine cellar. To learn all about the winemaking process in Provence, the visit will conclude with a pleasant tasting to appreciate the fruits of the winemakers' passionate labor.
Now take the road towards the center of Saint-Raphaël for a well-deserved lunch. Stop by the’Excelsior, A restaurant on the famous Promenade des Bains, offering vibrant cuisine to be savored on its sunny terrace. To bring you the very best of Mediterranean produce, the chef visits the Saint-Raphaël market daily for inspiration and to source fresh ingredients from local producers.
Leaving Saint-Raphaël, take the spectacular winding road that runs along the coast, nicknamed the Golden Corniche. Offering breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters and glowing red cliffs, this mythical route was once used by the Romans under the name "Via Aurelia". Feel free to make several stops to admire the scenery, it is one of the most breathtaking coastal routes in France.
After a 15-20 minute drive, you will reach the Agay harbor, A particularly picturesque spot, well sheltered between Cap Dramont and Pointe de la Baumette. You'll be immediately captivated by the panorama of this natural site, equally popular with sailors and swimmers. An ideal setting for a swim and to savor one last time the wild beauty of this region, at the end of a long weekend that has given pride of place to both gastronomic delights and contemplation in the fresh air.
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