Roquebrune sur Argens
What to do in Roquebrune-sur-Argens? The guide to your vacations in the Var
Are you planning a holiday on the Côte d’Azur and wondering what to do in Roquebrune-sur-Argens? Situated between the Maures and Estérel massifs, this Var commune boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes and activities. From our Les Pêcheurs campsite, an ideal starting point, discover its three faces: the medieval village steeped in history, the Issambres coastline and its beaches, and the natural hinterland of La Bouverie. A rich program for vacations with family or friends. To help you plan your stay, here’s an overview of the experiences that await you
| Type of activity | Key idea | Ideal for… | Main location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Climbing Roquebrune Rock | Panorama lovers, sports enthusiasts | Le Rocher (several trails) |
| History & Culture | Stroll through the medieval village | Heritage enthusiasts, the curious | Le Village, Maison du Patrimoine |
| Sea bathing | Beaches and creeks of Les Issambres | Families, relaxation enthusiasts | Les Issambres (Plage de San Peïre) |
| Nautical activities | Lac de l’Aréna leisure park | Families with children, groups of friends | Lac de l’Aréna (Water Glisse Passion) |
| Gourmandise | Discovering chocolate makers | Gourmets of all ages | Le Village (Maison du Chocolat) |
| Nature | Exploring the Gorges du Blavet | Hikers and geology enthusiasts | La Bouverie |
Visit Roquebrune-sur-Argens:
the thousand-year-old village and its rock
The medieval village, a journey through time
The historic heart of Roquebrune-sur-Argens is an invitation to step back in time. Stroll through its narrow streets and discover the architectural treasures that bear witness to its rich past. Admire the 16th-century arcaded houses known as Portiques, and pass under the Portalet, the ancient fortified gate of the castrum. Don’t miss the Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul church, whose foundations date back to the 11th century. To immerse yourself in local history, the Maison du Patrimoine, housed in a former stable, offers exhibitions and free admission all year round.
The Rocher de Roquebrune, a panoramic view of Provence
It’s impossible to come to Roquebrune without noticing its rock. This imposing mass of ochre-hued sandstone rises to an altitude of 373 meters, dominating the entire Argens valley. It’s a listed natural site, popular with hikers and nature lovers alike. The ascent to the famous Trois Croix, the work of a local sculptor, is a challenging hike that rewards walkers with a 360° view of Fréjus, the Estérel massif and sometimes even the Alps in the distance.
Nature and adventure activities between Esterel and Maures
The Gorges du Blavet, the Var colorado
To the north of the commune, in the La Bouverie district, lies a surprising natural site: the Gorges du Blavet. Nicknamed the “Var colorado” for their walls of red volcanic rock, these gorges carved out by the Blavet river are an ideal place for hiking and climbing. Trails allow you to descend to the bottom of the canyon to better appreciate its height, while numerous equipped routes await climbers. It’s also a place steeped in prehistory, with the Grotte du Mueron bearing witness to ancient human occupation.
Hiking in Roquebrune sur Argens for all walkers
Are you still wondering what you can do in Roquebrune sur Argens to get some exercise? Roquebrune sur Argens is a paradise for walkers. In addition to the ascent of the Rocher, there are over twenty signposted foot paths offering a variety of landscapes. From easy family strolls, such as around Lac de l’Aréna, to more demanding circuits in the Palayson forest or along the Douaniers trail, there’s a route for every level. To help you make the right choice, take a look at our detailed guide to hiking in Roquebrune-sur-Argens.
Beaches and water sports:
the Issambres coastline and Lac de l’Aréna
The beaches of Roquebrune sur Argens: 8 km of coastline at Les Issambres
The Issambres district is Roquebrune’s seafront. The 8 kilometers of coastline alternate between fine sandy beaches, creeks and unspoilt coves.
- For families: San Peïre beach, supervised in season, is ideal, with its nearby shops and Handiplage label. La Gaillarde beach is also an excellent family option.
- With your dog: Plage des Éclaireurs is the only sandy beach where leashed dogs are allowed.
- For peace and quiet: the coastal path provides access to wilder coves such as Tardieu or Bonne-Eau, for a swim away from the hustle and bustle.
Lac de l’Aréna, the other face of nautical activities
If you’re looking for something to do in Roquebrune sur Argens away from the salt water, head for Lac de l’Aréna. This 30-hectare freshwater lake, located at the foot of the Rocher, is a major leisure center. The Water Glisse Passion water sports center offers a wide range of activities: pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboats, as well as a huge water park with giant inflatables, slides and a zip-wire course over the water. To find out more, read our complete guide to Lac de l’Aréna.
A taste of Provence: markets and local specialities
Local markets, an immersion in Provence
Strolling through a market is an unmissable experience in Provence. In Roquebrune, the choice is yours! Each neighborhood has its own weekly rendezvous with local producers, artisans and local flavors. In summer, night markets liven up evenings in the village and by the sea in Les Issambres. To plan your visit, discover the full calendar in our article dedicated to local markets.
La Maison du Chocolat, a must for all chocolate lovers
Roquebrune-sur-Argens cultivates a special relationship with cocoa. The Maison du Chocolat et Cacao, housed in a former 17th-century chapel, is a symbol of this. This free museum exhibits over 1,000 objects linked to the history of chocolate. After the visit, several of the village’s chocolate makers await you for a tasting session. Don’t leave without tasting the local specialty: a chocolate-covered nougat called “Le Rocher de Roquebrune“.
Your questions about activities in Roquebrune-sur-Argens
What are the best beaches in Roquebrune-sur-Argens?
For families, San Peïre beach in Les Issambres is perfect, as it is supervised and accessible. La Gaillarde beach is also very popular for its fine sand. If you’re looking for more peace and quiet, the calanques accessible via the coastal path are ideal.
How difficult is the Rocher de Roquebrune hike?
The ascent to Les Trois Croix is considered difficult and is for experienced hikers, with steep passages requiring the use of hands. However, there are easier walks, such as around Lac de l’Aréna at the foot of the rock, which are accessible to all.
What are the market days in Roquebrune-sur-Argens?
The main markets are held year-round from 8am to 1pm: Mondays in Les Issambres, Fridays in the medieval village and Saturdays in La Bouverie. In summer, night markets liven up weekday evenings. Whatever you fancy, Roquebrune-sur-Argens has something for you. When you stay at our Les Pêcheurs campsite, you’ll be at the heart of it all. Plan your vacation and book your stay to experience it all.