In this fascinating exploration, we will delve into the historical and cultural treasures nestled in the heart of Sanary-sur-Mer, an enchanting destination on the French Riviera. Our goal is to highlight the region’s iconic sites that offer enriching experiences for families looking for adventure and discovery. Whether you are passionate about history, art lovers or simply curious to discover new horizons, Sanary-sur-Mer is full of gems to explore with the family.
Discovery of Sanary-sur-Mer:
Located on the picturesque French Mediterranean coast, Sanary-sur-Mer is a charming seaside town steeped in tradition and authenticity. With a rich historical heritage, it offers an idyllic setting for a family getaway. Strolling through the cobbled streets of its Old Centre, visitors are transported to a world where time seems to have stopped. The colourful facades of the buildings, the shady squares and the quaint shops create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a day of discovery.
Walk in the Old Centre:
A stroll through the Old Centre of Sanary-sur-Mer is a dive into the past, where every corner reveals a little more of the history and charm of the area. The narrow streets lined with colourful facades invite you to get lost in a maze of discoveries. Admire the traditional Provençal architecture, with its wooden shutters and flowered balconies, which testify to the city’s rich heritage.
For families looking for adventure, the Old Centre offers a multitude of captivating activities. Explore the small local craft shops, where you’ll find unique handcrafted treasures to take home as souvenirs. Take a gourmet break in one of the city’s charming cafes or bakeries, where you can taste Provençal specialties and savor the lively atmosphere of the central square.
Children will also enjoy the small shaded squares where they can play safely, while parents will relax sipping coffee and admiring the joyful animation that reigns in the streets. At the end of the day, don’t miss the night market in the Old Centre, where the colourful stalls are overflowing with local products and crafts, creating a festive and friendly atmosphere.
Visit of the Saint-Nazaire Church:
The Saint-Nazaire church, an architectural jewel of Sanary-sur-Mer’s heritage, is a must for any family visit. Nestled in the heart of the Old Centre, this historic church is a true testament to the history and culture of the region.
Built in the twelfth century, the Saint-Nazaire church impresses with its imposing architecture and remarkable sculptural details. Families will be able to admire the ancient frescoes that adorn the walls of the church, testifying to the artistic richness of the region over the centuries. The colorful stained glass windows filter the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing and mystical atmosphere inside the building.
In addition to its historical importance, the Saint-Nazaire church also offers visitors the opportunity to discover the spirituality and serenity that reign in these places. Families can attend religious services or simply take a moment of meditation in this place of tranquility and beauty. A visit to the Saint-Nazaire Church is an enriching experience for the whole family, which leaves a lasting impression of peace and contemplation.
Exploring the Port:
Discovering the port of Sanary-sur-Mer is an adventure in its own right, offering visitors a dive into the maritime soul of the city. This picturesque port is full of cultural activities and attractions that appeal to families in search of authenticity and Provençal charm.
The traditional boats moored along the quays offer a picturesque sight, reminiscent of the rich maritime history of the region. Families can stroll along the quays, admiring the colorful sailboats and typical Mediterranean fishing boats. The youngest will be enchanted by the stories of sailors and maritime legends that populate the narrow streets of the port.
Local markets add a touch of liveliness and animation to the port, with their colourful stalls brimming with fresh produce and Provençal specialities. Families can wander between the stalls, discovering the flavours and scents of the region, and exchanging with the local craftsmen who perpetuate the ancestral traditions of Sanary-sur-Mer.
Finally, the artistic events organized regularly on the quays of the port add a cultural dimension to the experience. Outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and street performances liven up the summer evenings, giving families the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene in an enchanting setting.
Walk in the Exotic Garden:
Nestled in the heart of Sanary-sur-Mer, the Exotic Garden is a haven of peace where families can escape and recharge their batteries in the middle of lush and exotic vegetation. This enchanting botanical garden is home to an impressive variety of exotic plants from all corners of the world, offering visitors a sensory immersion in distant and enchanting landscapes.
The walk to the Exotic Garden is a unique sensory experience, where families can admire a palette of vibrant colors and an astonishing diversity of shapes and textures. Children will be fascinated by the diversity of plant species and will be able to learn in a playful way about biodiversity and the importance of environmental preservation.
In addition to its botanical beauty, the Exotic Garden also offers visitors relaxation and leisure areas, conducive to family games and moments of conviviality. Shaded picnic areas, benches scattered throughout the garden and children’s play areas add a playful dimension to the visit, allowing families to fully enjoy this green haven in the heart of the city.
Visit of the Frédéric Dumas Museum:
The Frédéric Dumas Museum is a must-see for families looking for adventure and discovery in Sanary-sur-Mer. Dedicated to the fascinating history of scuba diving, this museum offers a captivating dive into the mysterious world of the seabed, through a collection of objects, photographs and fascinating stories.
A visit to the Frédéric Dumas Museum is an enriching experience for children, who will be able to discover in a fun way the evolution of scuba diving over the centuries. Interactive and educational exhibits will allow them to understand diving techniques, the equipment used by the pioneers of the discipline and the hidden wonders of the oceans.
Children will also be fascinated by the adventure stories of Frédéric Dumas, a famous diver and explorer from Sanary-sur-Mer, after whom the museum is named. His underwater exploits and encounters with marine wildlife have marked the history of diving, and his stories are an inspiration to budding young explorers.
Excursion to the Mugel Park:
The excursion to the Parc du Mugel is an unmissable natural getaway just a few steps from Sanary-sur-Mer, offering families the opportunity to discover the richness and beauty of the Mediterranean flora in a preserved and enchanting setting.
This green park is home to an impressive diversity of plants and flowers, some of which are unique to the region. Hiking trails wind through lush vegetation, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea and the steep cliffs of the coast.
The picnic areas scattered throughout the park invite families to enjoy a moment of relaxation and conviviality in the heart of nature. Children can have fun exploring the trails, watching birds and butterflies, and learning about biodiversity from the educational panels scattered throughout the park.
Finally, the Parc du Mugel also offers fun activities for the whole family, including children’s playgrounds, sports fields and shaded relaxation areas. It is the ideal place for a day outdoors, where young and old alike can recharge their batteries and reconnect with nature.
In summary, Sanary-sur-Mer is full of historical and cultural treasures that promise moments of wonder and discovery for the whole family. From a scenic stroll through the old center to enriching visits to iconic landmarks such as the Saint-Nazaire Church and the Frédéric Dumas Museum, every step of your exploration has its share of surprises and memorable memories.
To extend this unique experience, what better way to stay than at the Holidays and Work hotel? Nestled in the heart of Sanary-sur-Mer, our establishment offers comfortable accommodation and services adapted to families, for a stay that is as pleasant as it is practical. Take advantage of our proximity to local attractions, our warm and friendly atmosphere, and our commitment to making your stay an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Booking link
Don’t delay in booking now to secure your spot and ensure you take full advantage of all that Sanary-sur-Mer and the Holidays and Work Hotel have to offer. May your stay be filled with adventures, discoveries and moments of happiness with your family!
