The Lavandou: A More Than Century-old Seaside Resort.
Located on the Var coast of the French Riviera facing the Golden Islands, Le Lavandou is a former small fishing port that has become an internationally renowned seaside resort. This destination, known for its fine sandy beaches and underwater treasures, will celebrate its 110th anniversary in 2023.
Where is Le Lavandou located?
Le Lavandou is a commune in the Var department located at the foot of the Massif des Maures, on the Mediterranean coast.
The town extends over 12 km of coastline facing the golden islands (Levant, Port-Cros and Porquerolles...) and offers an enchanting natural setting, with vast sandy beaches and small wild coves.
Note: The name of the town of Lavandou has three possible origins:
• "lavadou": washhouse in Provençal
• a variety of lavender (Lavandula Stoechas)
• the Lavendour, an east wind "lévent dur".
The first hypothesis is the most likely because the Vieille stream that runs through the town once allowed residents to wash their laundry and dishes.
What is the history of Lavandou?
The village of Lavandou was once a district of the municipality of Bormes-les-Mimosas. In 1909, the people of Lavandou demanded autonomy. The village became an independent municipality on May 25, 1913. At that time, the village had only 776 inhabitants, including 150 fishermen or "pescadous".
Good to know: In 2023, the municipality celebrates its 110th anniversary on the weekend of May 27 and 28. On Saturday evening at 9pm, a free show open to all will take place on the seafront.
On Sunday, the fishermen's festival will take place on the aptly named Quai des pêcheurs! In honor of the city's ties to the Mediterranean, many seafood products and activities will be offered starting at noon.
During these two days, an outdoor and free exhibition will be held on the seafront, allowing visitors to discover old photos of iconic places in the municipality, such as the Town Hall, the Church, the port, the Castle and the Restanques de Saint-Clair.
These festivities will offer visitors a great opportunity to rediscover this jewel of the Var coast, nestled between the Maures massif and an enchanting coastline.
"Why choose this seaside resort?"
Seaside resort on the Var coast, Le Lavandou offers 12 kilometers of coastline and 12 fine sandy beaches.
The municipality received the 1st Regional Sea Prize awarded by the PACA Region in 2008.
It has the "Blue Flag of Europe" for water and environmental management, preservation of the coastal heritage, safety and equipment of its beaches. It also sports the "Starfish Pavilion" for the quality of bathing waters.
Its beautiful seabed is highly appreciated by scuba diving enthusiasts for their richness and the clarity of the water.
Boat lovers regularly have the opportunity to see dolphins offshore, which adorn the city's coat of arms. The municipality of Lavandou is also nicknamed "The City of Dolphins".
What to do in Lavandou?
The Lavandou is a destination with multiple attractions, including:
• the port and its fishermen
• the 12 fountain trail
• the "château" or "villa Louise" which houses the tourist office
• the Saint-Louis Church (1855)
• the coastal path
• the 12 beaches
• the shuttles to the Iles d'Or.
