What to do in Aups during your stay?
Published on 18/11/2024 by CAMPASUN
Nestled in the heart of Green Provence, the city of Aups, located in the Var department, is a destination that will captivate lovers of nature, history and gastronomy. Renowned for its pleasant climate and exceptional natural setting, a multitude of activities are offered to the greatest delight of families. Whether you are visiting our campsite in Aups, the Camping International, or you are planning an extended holiday, Aups will surely seduce you. But then, what to do in Aups during your stay? Here is our selection.
ACTIVITIES TO DO IN AUPS AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
1. Stroll in the Old Aups
Start your visit with a stroll through the alleys of old Aups. You will discover a remarkable architectural heritage, testimony to its rich medieval past. Do not miss the church of Saint-Pancrace, a building from the 15th century, which is distinguished by its bell tower.
2. Explore the Lac de Sainte-Croix and the Gorges du Verdon
A few kilometers from Aups, the Lac de Sainte-Croix is a must. This artificial lake, with turquoise waters is the third largest in France. It offers many water activities: swimming, pedal boats, canoeing… On the edge of the lake, the Verdon Gorges, often called the “European Grand Canyon”, offer a breathtaking natural spectacle. Hikers and water sports enthusiasts will find their happiness.
3. Taste local cuisine
Gastronomy is an integral part of the Aups experience. Local restaurants offer Provencal specialties, often made from local products such as olive oil, herbs of Provence, and of course, truffles. The dishes to taste: aioli, pistou soup and Provençal daube.
4. Participate in cultural events of Aups
Aups hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Among the most notable, the Feast of Saint-Pancras in May, celebrating the patron saint of the village, and the Truffle Festival in winter. These festivities are a great opportunity to discover local traditions.
5. Visit the olive and wine estates
The region around Aups is also known for its olive groves and vineyards. Take advantage of your stay to visit an olive or wine estate. You can taste high quality olive oils and local wines, while discovering the secrets of their manufacture.
6. Discover the villages around Aups
Villecroze – (8 km from the campsite International d’Aups)
You are staying at our campsite in Aups, so do not miss Villecroze. Nestled in the Var, this picturesque village charm with its flowery streets, stone facades and medieval atmosphere. Renowned for its cave caves and beautiful park, this village offers a peaceful getaway in the heart of Provence.
Sillans la Cascade – (10 km from our campsite located in the Verdon)
The enchanting village of the Var, Sillans-la-Cascade, is famous for its spectacular 42-meter waterfall, nestled in a green setting. This exceptional natural site invites you to refreshing walks and relaxing moments in the heart of the Provencal nature, in the Gorges du Verdon.
Tour-Tour – (11 km du camping)
Nicknamed “the village in the sky of Provence”, Tour-Tour offers a magnificent panorama on the landscapes of the Var. This hilltop village, classified among the most beautiful villages in France, seduces by its cobbled streets, shady squares and rich architectural heritage. Our campsite in the Verdon located 11km from the village of Tour-Tour offers accommodation with or without Jacuzzi, but also large pitches that can accommodate tents, caravans and campers.
Aiguines – (22 km de notre camping situé dans les Gorges du Verdon)
The charming village perched on the Var, Aiguines , overlooks the Lake of Sainte-Croix. Known for its castle with its breathtaking view of the Gorges du Verdon, Aiguines seduces by its typical Provencal atmosphere, narrow streets and traditional crafts, including woodturning. To enjoy this beautiful village for a few days, stay at our campsite in Aiguines, the Aigle campsite. You will enjoy a panoramic view of the Lake of Sainte-Croix while staying in unusual accommodations. It is the ideal campsite to stay a few days in nature.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – (33 km de notre camping International d’Aups)
Perched on the cliff and adorned with its famous star, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a jewel of the Verdon Regional Natural Park. This picturesque village is known for its fine earthenware, flowery streets and breathtaking views of the Gorges du Verdon.
THE MARKETS IN AUPS AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
The markets of Aups
Throughout the year, stroll through several markets in Aups and discover the specialties of this charming village.
Le marché provençal
Taking place every Wednesday and Saturday, the Provencal market is the essential opportunity to soak up the local atmosphere and discover the local products. You will find products from local producers, fruits and vegetables, flowers, clothes…
The truffle market
Next to olive oil, wine and honey, truffle is a real specialty that you should not miss. Two markets are available, depending on the season:
– Every Thursday morning from mid-November to mid-March is the black truffle market
– Every Wednesday, from mid-June to mid-August, you will find the market with white truffles
Go to the Place Frédéric Mistral to discover this specialty.
The Aups night market
In July and August, come and enjoy a beautiful summer evening at the night market with family and/ or friends. On site, you can sip a drink in a warm atmosphere while enjoying small sweets to discover on the various stands.
Markets around Aups
The Provencal markets are a festival of colours, aromas and flavours. Each village has its own stalls where fresh local produce, aromatic herbs, olive oils, cheeses and colourful textiles are mixed. Find every day, a market taking place around our campsites near the Gorges du Verdon.
- Tuesday: Markets in Aiguines and Lorgues
- Wednesday: Aups, Salernes and Riez markets
- Thursday: Villecroze market
- Friday: Markets in Lorgues and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Saturday: Markets in Aups and Riez
- Sunday: Market in Salernes
WHAT TO DO IN AUPS WHEN IT RAINS?
Aups is known for its idyllic setting and its generally mild climate. When the weather doesn’t lend itself to outdoor walks, Aups reveals other aspects. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your stay in Aups, even in rainy weather.
1. Visit the Truffle Museum
Aups is famous for being one of the black truffle capitals in France. The Truffle Museum, located in the village, offers an immersive experience in the world of this prestigious mushroom. You will learn all about its history, culture and harvesting methods. The visit can be completed by a tasting or even a truffle trip, to live the experience of truffle hunting with a truffle farmer and his dog.
2. Discover art and local history
Aups has a rich historical and artistic heritage. Take advantage of a rainy day to visit the 15th century church of Saint-Pancrace and admire its architecture. Art galleries and workshops of local artists also offer a cultural refuge, ideal for art lovers.
You will also find the shop of the oil mill that will make you discover the secret of manufacturing olive oil in the old mill the oil of the eighteenth century.
3. Visit shops and workshops
Aups’ shops and craft workshops are a treasure for visitors looking for local creations. Among pottery, lavender products and other crafts, you will find your perfect souvenir.
4. Browse the Prehistory Museum of the Gorges du Verdon in Quinson
The Museum of Prehistory of the Gorges du Verdon, located in Quinson, is a place dedicated to human history. This museum, one of the largest in Europe in its field, takes visitors on a journey through time. After this visit, you will know how to cut the flint or even light a fire without a match.
5. Explore the Wood Turning Museum in Aiguines
The Museum of Woodturning, located in the village of Aiguines, offers a fascinating window on traditional crafts of the region. This museum highlights the art of woodturning, a secular practice linked to local history. Visitors can discover collections of turned pieces, old tools, but also attend demonstrations of filming.
Aups, with its Provencal charm, beautiful landscapes and cultural and gastronomic wealth, offers a enriching and diverse travel experience. Whether it is to relax, explore, learn or simply enjoy life in Provence, Aups is a destination not to be missed in the Var. Book your stay in our campsite in Aups and discover our beautiful region.
