Everything beautiful can be found in the Var, our Mediterranean region of the month – landscape, beaches, resorts, climate, even the people. As part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the department enjoys the reputation of being one of the most exclusive areas of France.

The first superlative is the Corniche des Maures, known as the most beautiful coastal drive in France with views of sweeping sands, rocks and pines over an azure sea, rich forests and luxury homes of the rich and famous. In the peak months of summer, this road is heaving, but in autumn or spring sunshine you can enjoy a less crowded jaunt.

Another evocative outing involves hopping on a ferry to the Îles d'Hyères, a group of Mediterranean islands that give you a glimpse of what the Riviera was like before the crowds hit around 50 years ago. Porquerolles, now a nature reserve, is the best of the islands and can be enjoyed on foot or with a leisurely cycle ride.

Inland, the Gorges du Verdon form a spectacular canyon, with claims to being the most beautiful in Europe and a rival to America’s Grand Canyon.  This thousand year old rock forms cliffs on a fabulous scale and harbours the lakes of Sainte Croix and Esparron. Wonderful scenery to hike and the more ambitious can indulge in some climbing or windsurfing.

Var’s main city of Toulon has a wealth of markets, museums, monuments and cultural events and its bay is spectacular.  The old town of Draguignan is a labyrinth of narrow streets,  squares and fountains, with intriguing houses and hidden alleys. On boulevard John Kennedy is the American cemetery, last resting place of 861 soldiers who died in the 1944 landings.

The Var may be exclusive, but we have holiday properties that offer both kerb appeal and excellent value - perfect for all tastes and budget. Charming B&B starts at just £56 per room per night, you can book an apartment from just £175 a week or a lovely villa in countryside, woods or close to the sea. Mon Cabanon villa lies between Cannes and St Tropez and is just a few minutes’ walk from the rocky calanque or cove in our photo above.

Enquire with owners about flexible booking dates, a long weekend or a long winter let of a month or more, with prices considerably reduced. Browse our Var properties and check out our guide to the region.