In short:
- Coastal hiking of 7.14 km round trip
- Starting point from Le Lavandou, returning to the same point
- Marked trail in yellow, rocky passages, and sea views
- Plage de la Fossette as a remarkable arrival point
- Low elevation gain: +33 m / -33 m
- Level: moderate, not recommended for young children
- Average duration: 2h10 without swimming
- Passes by Plage de Saint-Clair and the fishermen’s huts
This medium-level hiking trail, accessible all year round, links the center of Lavandou to the peaceful Plage de la Fossette by following the famous coastal path. Along the route, walkers encounter sheltered coves, old fishermen’s huts, and breathtaking sea panoramas.
A gentle start from the heart of Lavandou
The journey begins at the market parking lot, just steps from Avenue du Président Auriol. The urban atmosphere quickly gives way to the calm of the seaside. After passing the marina, the trail slips behind the tunnel that marks the entrance to a wilder area. The yellow marker becomes your best companion on the road.
A crossing between sea and rocks
The path clings to the rock and winds along the coast, sometimes steep, sometimes gentle, but always bordered by the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Below, the waves set the pace of the walk while umbrella pines punctuate the sky. The fishermen’s huts add an authentic touch, a vestige of Lavandou’s maritime past.
A little further on, the blond sand of Plage de Saint-Clair invites a pause. Some hikers choose to lay down their towel for a swim or a moment of rest. The route then resumes to the right, behind a hut, to find the coastal path again.
Arrival at Plage de la Fossette
After about 3.6 km of walking, the trail opens up onto Plage de la Fossette, nestled between two rocky points. Less frequented than other beaches in Lavandou, it enchants with its tranquility. A small path runs along a restaurant to climb back up to Avenue du Levant, which then leads to Boulevard des Dryades.
This urban section allows you to complete the loop by returning to Plage de Saint-Clair, before resuming the outward path to reach the starting point.
Technical data of the itinerary
- Distance : 7.14 km (loop)
- Estimated duration : 2h10
- Min/Max altitude : 0 m / 23 m
- Elevation gain : +33 m / -33 m
- Type : Loop
- Marking : Yellow
- Departure : Market parking (N 43.135054° / E 6.364977°)
- Municipality : Le Lavandou (83980)
- Map IGN : 3446ET / 3545OT
- Region : Massif des Maures
Tips and recommendations
The itinerary may seem simple at first glance, but some sections of the coastal path require good stability and appropriate equipment, particularly hiking shoes with a non-slip sole. Flip-flops are to be avoided. The second half of the trail has some technical passages not suitable for young children.
In summer, foot traffic increases, and it is recommended to start early in the morning to enjoy the soft lights on the sea and avoid the hot hours.
Nearby the route
- The downtown of Lavandou is worth a visit, especially for its Provençal market.
- Swimming is possible at Plage de Saint-Clair or Plage de la Fossette depending on your desire.
- Bars and restaurants are plentiful along the seafront of Lavandou to end the hike on a gourmet note.
A route between land and sea
This section of the coastal path reveals a well-preserved facet of the Var coastline. With a mix of coves, sandy inlets, and rocky passages, it offers a variety of landscapes in just a few kilometers. Plage de la Fossette, as a highlight, rewards walkers with its tranquility and discreet charm.
