Le Lavandou, French Riviera, France
Discovering Le Lavandou
Nestled on the sun-drenched coast between the vibrant city of Hyères to the west and the glamorous hub of Saint-Tropez to the east, Le Lavandou is a charming holiday resort on the French Riviera. We arrived there one late afternoon, planning to spend a single night in a small hotel, which gave us the perfect opportunity to visit the local beach, a spot we had heard was particularly beautiful. Our brief visit proved that the rumors were indeed true, confirming its reputation as a stunning coastal getaway.
The beach itself exceeded our expectations, living up to its reputation with excellent sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and delightful coastal views—in essence, everything you could want for a perfect beach day. The natural landscape surrounding the beach is also quite striking and varied, with numerous pine trees providing shade and unique rock formations rising from the sea, adding to the picturesque scenery. Although we unfortunately didn't have enough time to explore the main town and its marina, we were able to capture its beauty from a distance, promising to return to discover more of its coastal charm.
Le Lavandou is particularly renowned for its twelve beautiful sandy beaches, each with its own unique character, stretching along a 12-kilometer coastline. These beaches cater to all types of visitors, from families seeking calm, shallow waters to those looking for water sports activities. The town's name itself is said to be derived from the French word for "laundry" (lavoir), hinting at the lavender that used to be washed here, creating a link to the region's famous plant. Today, the town is a vibrant mix of seaside relaxation and lively port culture, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists throughout the summer season.
Parking in Le Lavandou
Finding a parking spot in a popular coastal resort like Le Lavandou can be challenging, especially during the peak summer months when the town is bustling with tourists. The best strategy is often to arrive early in the day to secure a spot close to the beach or town center. Le Lavandou provides several designated parking zones, both along the boulevards and in dedicated lots, to accommodate the high volume of visitors. While many of these are paid, the convenience they offer is well worth the cost, allowing you to enjoy your time on the beach without worrying about your vehicle.
If you want to stay here for a short time, you can park your car near the beach at Boulevard de la Baleine (1; GPS: 43.141007, 6.381186) or at the side street Place des Pins Penchés (2; GPS: 43.141343, 6.380701).
Tropical garden in La Londe-les-Maures
The "Jardin Zoologique Tropical" in La Londe-les-Maures is more than just a zoo; it is a lush and exotic botanical paradise that transports you far from the Mediterranean coast. Spread over a significant area, the garden is a haven for both flora and fauna, featuring a diverse collection of plants and animals from around the world. It is committed to conservation and education, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species. The well-designed pathways lead you through different climate zones, creating a truly immersive experience for all ages.
Continuing our journey we visited interesting tropical garden ("Jardin Zoologique Tropical") in the next day. It's located nearby La Londe-les-Maures, at a distance of about 12 kilometers from Le Lavandou. We parked in the parking lot at the garden (3; GPS: 43.147656, 6.255250). The garden itself is located on an area of 5 hectares and you can find there more than 250 different exotic animals (monkeys, lemurs, tropical birds etc.). Additionally, there is one of most beautiful arboretums in south-eastern France in this garden.
Gastronomy in Le Lavandou
Le Lavandou's culinary scene is a true reflection of its coastal location and Provençal heritage. The town's port ensures a constant supply of fresh fish and seafood, which are the stars of many local dishes. The restaurants and cafes along the waterfront offer a delightful dining experience, allowing you to enjoy your meal with a view of the boats and the sea. The cuisine here is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, combining fresh produce with aromatic herbs, olive oil, and garlic.
What to Try?
- Seafood: Don't miss the chance to try a "plat de fruits de mer" (seafood platter) or fresh grilled fish, caught that very morning.
- Bouillabaisse: While a specialty of Marseille, many restaurants in the region serve their own version of this rich and flavorful fish stew.
- Local Wines: The area is part of the Côtes de Provence AOC. The Rosé wines from this region are particularly famous and are a perfect accompaniment to a seafood meal.
- Tarte Tropézienne: This famous cream-filled brioche from nearby Saint-Tropez is a perfect dessert to end your meal.
Where to Eat?
The best places to find restaurants are along the promenade and around the marina, where you'll find a wide selection of eateries ranging from casual bistros to more upscale dining. For a more authentic experience, explore the smaller streets in the town center to find charming local spots that serve traditional Provençal cuisine. Dining al fresco is a popular choice, allowing you to fully embrace the warm Mediterranean evenings.
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