Varages offers several ways to explore its faïence tradition, waterside landscapes and olive oil production. The Musée des Faïences, the “Au fil de l'eau” hike and the Coopérative Oléicole La Varageoise each represent one of these themes. When planning a stay, you can distinguish between cultural history, time on a hiking trail and insights into the production of local products.
Rock, Water and Pottery Clay
Varages is situated on a rocky travertine spur, at the foot of which a river flows. It is also home to a significant deposit of pottery clay. Both the distinctive landform and the ceramic material are therefore defining features of the area. The pottery clay has its own connection to the faïence tradition, while the travertine spur and river describe the landscape.
Faïence at the Museum and Workshop
The Musée des Faïences displays an extensive collection of more than 1,000 pieces dating from the 17th to the 21st century. The museum is housed in a typical Provençal village house. Starting with clay, it explains production and decoration techniques: the focus is not only on the finished pieces, but also on the craftsmanship involved in making them.
La Faïencerie de Varages en Provence was founded in 1695. Clay is also worked at the Faïencerie de la Belle Epoque. The pieces, made entirely in the workshop, are glazed and decorated with deep respect for the faïence tradition of Varages. The museum collection, the history of the workshop’s founding and its production methods thus offer different perspectives on the local ceramic tradition.
“Au fil de l'eau” Hike
This easy hike starts at Place de la Libération. It is 4.5 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Along the route, eight information panels cover water, rural heritage and astronomy. The hike passes washhouses, fountains, a waterfall, a stream and a canal. In this way, places associated with water are combined with historical and astronomical themes.
The route also leads to Chapelle Saint-Pothin. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views over the village and the Bessillons. Before setting out, check the trail conditions and safety information.
Olive Oil, Cycling Route and Optional Detours
By appointment, the Coopérative Oléicole La Varageoise offers tours and tastings. It traditionally produces “Fruité noir” olive oil, including French olive oil and AOP olive oil from Provence made from ripened olives. Production uses granite millstones weighing two tonnes each, scourtins and hydraulic presses.
Cyclists also have a connection to the history of local routes: a former railway line in Varages has been converted into a greenway and forms part of the “La Méditerranée à vélo” cycling route. From the village hike, you can take an optional out-and-back detour to the Source de la Foux via Rue Molière. The spring is guarded by a lion.
Discover more destinations: Montfort-Sur-Argens, Le Lavandou, Pourrières, Baudinard-Sur-Verdon, Draguignan, Saint-Zacharie, La Mole, Taradeau.
For the broader travel overview: Var.
