There's a version of Provence that has nothing to do with the coast. No sand, no rosé terraces, no sunscreen. Just forest, silence, and the smell of pine and warm earth underfoot. That's the Massif des Maures. This ancient mountain range — one of the oldest geological formations in France — starts just 15 minutes from Villa Mauricette and stretches inland toward the heart of the Var. It's wild, mostly empty, and full of trails that range from gentle morning walks to serious day-long hikes.

--- WHY THE MASSIF DES MAURES

If you've spent a few days by the pool or on the beach, the Maures offer the perfect change of pace. The air is cooler under the canopy, the light filters through cork oaks and chestnuts, and the only sounds are birdsong and your own footsteps. It's also one of the last refuges of the Hermann's tortoise — Europe's rarest land tortoise — which you might spot crossing the trail if you're walking quietly.

--- THREE TRAILS WE LOVE

1. Notre-Dame des Anges (moderate, ~3h round trip) The crown jewel. A steady climb through forest leads to a chapel perched at 780m, with a full 360° panorama — the sea, the Alps on clear days, and the rolling green of the massif below. Best in the morning, when the light is golden and the air is still cool.

2. La Chartreuse de la Verne (easy to moderate, ~2h) A forest path leads to one of the most atmospheric sites in Provence: a 12th-century Carthusian monastery nestled deep in the woods. The approach through the trees is almost cinematic. The monastery can be visited (small entry fee).

3. Collobrières loop (easy, ~1.5h) A gentle walk around the village of Collobrières, famous for its chestnut-based products (crème de marrons, chestnut beer, candied chestnuts). Perfect for families or anyone who prefers a short walk followed by a long lunch.

--- COLLOBRIÈRES: THE CHESTNUT CAPITAL

This small village at the heart of the massif is worth a visit on its own. The main street is lined with artisan shops selling chestnut everything — from spreads to ice cream. In October, the Fête de la Châtaigne draws thousands for three days of chestnut-themed festivities. Even outside the festival, Collobrières has a quiet charm: stone bridges, a river running through the centre, and a pace of life that belongs to another century.

--- WHERE TO EAT

Picnicking is the obvious choice — natural clearings and summit areas along the trails make perfect lunch spots. Pack provisions from the markets before you set off.

For a sit-down meal:

• Le Carré des Saveurs in Collobrières — seasonal menu, local ingredients

• La Petite Fontaine — simple and honest Provençal cooking

--- PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Getting there: 15 minutes from Villa Mauricette to the nearest trailheads. Collobrières is about 35 minutes.

• Best seasons: Autumn (colours, chestnuts), spring (wildflowers, mild temperatures), winter (crisp and quiet). Summer is often too hot and access may be restricted due to fire risk.

• Fire risk: In summer, check massif access status on var.gouv.fr before heading out. Closures are common on red-alert days. • Equipment: Hiking boots, water (at least 1.5L per person), sun protection, IGN map or offline trail app.

• Family-friendly: The Collobrières loop and Chartreuse trail are suitable for children. Notre-Dame des Anges requires more stamina.

• Parking: Free at most trailheads.

--- OUR VERDICT

The Massif des Maures is Provence without the filter. No crowds, no hype — just forest, stone, and sky. It's the kind of place that makes you want to come back in a different season, just to see how the light has changed. And at the end of the day, you're never far from the pool at Villa Mauricette.

→ Want to plan a hiking day during your stay? We'll share our favourite routes and pack you a picnic. Chat with us on WhatsApp or book directly at villa-mauricette.com