Four of the seven Renaissance oratories originally built along the Chemin des Roys have been preserved. Together with the Chapelle de la Miséricorde and the village church, they give Nans-les-Pins a clear heritage focus; hiking and golf add active pursuits to the options. The historic buildings, walking trails and golf course offer different points of reference for planning a stay.
Heritage from Different Periods
The Chapelle de la Miséricorde was built in 1623 by the White Penitents. Its interior features old ex-votos, religious objects once belonging to the White Penitents, and a more than 100-year-old copy of Murillo’s painting The Assumption of the Virgin. The chapel thus brings together the history of the brotherhood and various religious furnishings. Access restrictions may apply to visits inside.
The village church dates from the 17th century and was extended in 1822. Dedicated to Saint Lawrence and Saint Sebastian, it houses frescoes and a Carolingian altar.
Four of the seven Renaissance oratories originally built along the Chemin des Roys have been preserved; they were built in 1516.
Getting Around on Foot
Vieux Nans can only be reached on foot from the Chapelle de la Miséricorde; the walk takes about 30 minutes. Around 15 information panels allow visitors to explore the site independently. The time estimate refers to access from the chapel. Check trail conditions before setting out.
Allow more time for the circular L’Escaillon and Ice Route hike: it is 10 kilometres long, takes three hours and includes 355 metres of elevation gain. The route is rated moderate and marked in green; it starts at the Parking de la Ferrage. Its historical connection lies in the traces left by former ice producers in the Sainte-Baume. Seasonal access rules may change due to fire risk. Check access conditions and trail conditions before hiking.
The time estimates help compare two different activities: about 30 minutes for access to Vieux Nans from the chapel, and three hours for the circular hike from the Parking de la Ferrage. They should therefore not be understood as sections of the same hike. This makes it easier to decide whether to focus on a shorter walk or a route with a stated duration and elevation gain.
Golf Sainte Baume
Golf Sainte Baume is an 18-hole golf course in Nans-les-Pins. If golf is part of your travel plans, check the course’s operating conditions before you arrive.
The public practice facility also has around 30 artificial-turf hitting bays. A covered area includes around ten mats; check access conditions for this facility too before you arrive.
Discover more destinations: Vidauban, Entrecasteaux, Toulon, Bagnols-En-ForĂŞt, Giens, Aups, Forcalqueiret, Montfort-Sur-Argens
For the broader travel overview: Var.
