You're staying in one of France's most exciting wine regions — and you probably didn't plan for it. Most visitors come for the sea, the sun, the lavender. But the vineyards of the Var coast? They're a revelation. From the serious, age-worthy reds of Bandol to the elegant rosés of the Côtes de Provence, the estates around Toulon produce wines that rival anything in the country — often with views that no Burgundy cellar can match. A day among the vines here isn't just about tasting. It's about landscape, light, and the people who've shaped this terroir for generations.

--- THE WINE LANDSCAPE AROUND TOULON

Two appellations dominate the area: Bandol: Known for powerful, Mourvèdre-based reds that age beautifully, and rosés with more structure and depth than most. The vineyards climb the hillsides in terraces, sheltered from the Mistral, facing the sea. This is serious wine country. Côtes de Provence: The larger appellation stretches across the Var and produces the region's most famous export — pale, dry rosé. But there's far more here than poolside pink. Look for the whites (often Rolle-based, mineral and fresh) and the reds (Syrah and Grenache blends with Mediterranean warmth).

--- ESTATES WE RECOMMEND

Domaine de la Croix (La Croix-Valmer, ~40 min)

One of the most prestigious estates in the region. Stunning grounds, impeccable wines, and a tasting experience that feels like a private tour. Booking recommended.

Domaine du Clos Cibonne (Le Pradet, ~15 min)

A hidden gem, practically next door to Villa Mauricette. Famous for its Tibouren-based rosé — a grape variety almost exclusive to this corner of Provence. The estate has been in the same family for generations and the visit feels personal and authentic.

Domaine de Terrebrune (Ollioules, ~20 min)

A benchmark Bandol producer. Organic farming, traditional methods, and wines with remarkable depth. The tasting room overlooks the vineyards and the sea beyond. One of those places where you taste the landscape in the glass.

Domaine de l'Olivette (Le Castellet, ~30 min)

Family-run, welcoming, and unpretentious. Their rosé is excellent, and the setting — at the foot of the medieval village of Le Castellet — is postcard-perfect.

--- HOW TO PLAN YOUR DAY

A wine day works best with 2–3 estate visits, spaced out with a long lunch in between. Most estates offer free tastings; some charge a small fee (typically €5–€15) that's often waived if you buy. Booking is recommended, especially from June to October. Many estates offer guided tours of the cellars in addition to tastings — ask when you call. Our tip: start inland in the morning (cooler), finish at a coastal estate in the afternoon, and time your last tasting for golden hour. Rosé at sunset, surrounded by vines and sea views — that's the Var at its finest.

--- WHERE TO EAT

Several estates offer food-and-wine pairings or on-site picnic options. Otherwise, plan lunch at one of the villages between visits: • Le Castellet — medieval village with several excellent restaurants • La Cadière-d'Azur — quieter, more local, equally charming • Bandol waterfront — for seafood with a view

--- PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Getting there: Nearest estates are 15 minutes from Villa Mauricette. The Bandol/Castellet area is 25–30 minutes.

• Booking: Recommended for all estate visits, especially in summer.

• Driving: A designated driver is essential. Alternatively, we can help arrange a private driver or taxi service.

• Best time to visit: Year-round, but September–October (harvest season) is particularly special. Spring is also beautiful — wildflowers among the vines.

• What to bring: Sunglasses, comfortable shoes, curiosity, and an empty boot for the bottles you'll inevitably buy.

--- OUR VERDICT

The vineyards of the Var are one of the region's best-kept secrets — hidden in plain sight behind the beaches and the coast. A day among the vines changes how you taste Provence. And when you're back by the pool at Villa Mauricette, that bottle of rosé you picked up at the cellar door will taste even better than you remember.

→ Want us to plan a wine day for you?

We know the estates, the routes, and the best times to visit. Chat with us on WhatsApp or book your stay at Villa Mauricette.