Things To Do
in La Londe-les-Maures
La Londe-les-Maures is a relaxed Provençal seaside town on France’s Var coast, known for sandy beaches, maritime harbors and rolling vineyards that produce Côtes de Provence rosé. It sits between Hyères and Le Lavandou, offering easy access to the islands of Hyères (Porquerolles) and scenic coastal trails. The town balances low-key everyday life with an influx of sun-seekers and sailors in summer, creating a friendly seasonal atmosphere.
Expect Provençal markets, seafood restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities from sailing to hiking within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of La Londe-les-Maures, where you can admire the traditional Provençal architecture and vibrant market stalls. Stop by the local bakery for a fresh croissant and enjoy it at the nearby park as the sun rises. As the morning unfolds, make your way to the historic church, Église Saint-Louis, to appreciate its beautiful stained glass windows.
After a leisurely lunch at a quaint café, dive into the local culture by visiting the La Londe-les-Maures museum to learn about the region's history and heritage. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby vineyards, where you can indulge in some wine tasting and learn about the local winemaking process. The scenic views of vineyards rolling into the horizon will leave you captivated.
As night falls, dine at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties while listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the beach, enjoying the soft evening breeze and the twinkling lights reflecting on the water. End your day with a glass of local rosé as you watch the sunset paint the sky in stunning hues.
Kick off your day at the stunning beaches of La Londe-les-Maures, where the golden sands and azure waters await. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, and soak in the sun while enjoying the sound of the waves crashing nearby. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.
After a morning of sun and fun, grab lunch at a beachside café that offers light bites and refreshing drinks. Spend your afternoon trying out various water sports, such as jet skiing or windsurfing, which are popular in this region. The thrill of gliding over the waves will be an exhilarating experience, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
As the sun begins to set, return to the beach for an evening of relaxation by the water. Join a beach bonfire and enjoy the company of fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. Cap off your day with a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in local dishes infused with Mediterranean flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee (café) | $2-4 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $50-90 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-180 |
| 🚍Local bus or short taxi | $2-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Mediterranean beaches and clear water
- Close to islands like Porquerolles and scenic coastal trails
- Excellent Provençal food and wine culture
- Laid-back atmosphere with seasonal events and maritime charm
- Can be crowded and more expensive in peak summer months
- Limited nightlife and services in the off-season
- Some businesses operate seasonally and may close in winter
- Summer traffic congestion on coastal roads
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Où est la plage ?" - Where is the beach?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in La Londe-les-Maures
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, reflections at golden hour and a harbor atmosphere that captures the town’s maritime character.
Clifftop views, rocky coves and panoramic sea vistas—excellent for sunrise and sunset seascapes.
Rows of vines and gnarled olive trees framed by Mediterranean light—ideal for pastoral and winemaking shots, especially in late afternoon.
Sandy beaches and small coves with turquoise water; clear summer days offer vivid color contrasts for photos.
If you reach Porquerolles, its white-sand beaches, pine-clad hills and old village streets are highly photogenic.
Food in La Londe-les-Maures
La Londe-les-Maures Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
An assortment of fresh shellfish and crustaceans—oysters, mussels, prawns—served chilled with lemon; available at harbor restaurants and fishmongers.
Must-Try!
Rich fish soup typical of the Mediterranean coast; variants are served in local restaurants—ask for rouille and crusty bread.
Olives, anchovies and capers ground into tapenade, served on bread or with crudités; found in markets and bistros.
Slow-cooked aubergine, courgette, tomato and pepper dishes showcasing summer produce—easy to find in family-run restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A Provençal market selling fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, olives, charcuterie and local specialties; great for assembling a picnic or sampling small bites.
Seasonal stalls near the marina selling grilled fish, sandwiches and simple seafood plates—perfect for a casual lunch by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Bonjour or Bonsoir when entering shops and greet people politely; cheek kisses (la bise) are common among acquaintances but not necessary with strangers.
Smart-casual dress is common in town and restaurants—avoid walking around town in just a swimsuit. Be mindful of noise in residential neighborhoods, especially in the evening.
Even a few words of French are appreciated; say S'il vous plaît and Merci. Polite forms and formal address (Monsieur/Madame) are valued in service interactions.
Follow local rules for beaches and protected areas, avoid littering and respect signs restricting access to dunes or vegetation.
Safety
Tipping in La Londe-les-Maures
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is typically included in restaurant bills (service compris), so tipping is optional—leaving small change or rounding up for good service is common. For taxi drivers, porters or exceptional service, 5–10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards (CB, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; small vendors and markets may prefer cash. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds—ideal for hiking, cycling and visiting vineyards before the summer rush.
Hot, sunny weather with busy beaches and lively summer events; expect higher prices, busy roads and early reservations for restaurants and boat trips.
Warm early autumn with calmer seas and good wine-harvest activity; pleasant for outdoor pursuits and lower accommodation rates after peak season.
Cooler, quieter months with some closures among seasonal businesses; mild compared to northern Europe, but bring layers and check opening hours.
La Londe-les-Maures at Night
Hiking in La Londe-les-Maures
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails through low coastal mountains and Mediterranean scrub offering shaded paths, wildlife and elevated views over the coast.
Coastal walking trail along cliffs and beaches with dramatic sea views—segments suit both short walks and longer hikes.
If you visit by boat, Porquerolles features car-free trails through pines to secluded beaches and viewpoints with turquoise waters.
Headlands and promontories offer scenic day-hikes with panoramic views of the coastline and neighboring islands.
Airports
How to reach La Londe-les-Maures by plane.
Closest regional airport (about 20–30 minutes by car) with seasonal domestic and European flights; car rental and taxi connections available to La Londe.
Major international airport (about 1.5–2 hours by car or train) with wide flight options; direct trains and buses connect to the Var coast, or rent a car for greater flexibility.
Another international option (about 1.5–2 hours by car) offering additional flight choices; good for connecting to the western part of Provence and renting a car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term Provençal families and retirees who maintain town life year-round—many work in local services, viticulture, and fishing.
A significant portion of properties are owned by people who live elsewhere most of the year and stay seasonally, increasing demand in summer.
European holidaymakers and international visitors concentrated in summer months for beaches, boating and island excursions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The coastline and marinas make sailing and yachting very popular—numerous regattas and charter options are available in summer.
Calmer bays and stronger coastal breezes in spots attract windsurfers and paddleboarders; rental schools operate locally.
Road cycling and mountain biking in the Massif des Maures and along coastal roads are common, with scenic routes for various skill levels.
The traditional French boules game is a favorite pastime in town squares and parks—easy to watch or join a casual game.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Londe-les-Maures.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common: look for ratatouille, grilled vegetables, salads and cheese plates. Market stalls and bakeries also offer good choices for self-catering.
Vegan options are available but more limited in small towns—markets provide produce and breads; inquire at restaurants in advance and choose vegetable-forward dishes.
Gluten-free awareness is growing; many restaurants can adapt dishes (salads, grilled fish, vegetable plates). For strict needs, bring essentials and check labeling at markets.