What to do in Cogolin? Top 10 Must-See Attractions to Discover
Located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Cogolin embodies the authenticity of Provence and the cultural richness of the Var. From our campground in the Var, L'Argentière, embark on a journey to discover this village at the heart of the French Riviera, just a stone's throw from Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez. What to do in Cogolin? Here is our must-read guide.
Stroll through the Old Village
During your visit to Cogolin, start with the historic center in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. You will truly take a journey back in time. Walk through the streets, explore the Saint-Sauveur Church dating from the 12th century, and admire the Clock Tower. This medieval building, typical of the Var, once overlooked the surrounding plains.
What to do in Cogolin to soak up its charm? Wander around the Place de l'Ormeau, where markets and events celebrate the Provençal way of life. This place is a true gateway to history and tourism in France.
Visit the Clock Tower
Symbol of Cogolin, this 14th-century tower offers a stunning view of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and the Mediterranean. In the past, it allowed to monitor the surroundings and dangers coming from the sea. Today, it fascinates with its architecture and its role in the history of the Var.
From the heights, you can admire the hills surrounding Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, two gems of the French Riviera. What to do in Cogolin after this visit? Take a moment to photograph the landscapes and capture this suspended moment.
Explore the Artisan Workshops
Cogolin is a hub of craftsmanship in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. The famous briar pipe, the village's emblem, is made in centuries-old workshops. Also discover the luxury carpets, appreciated worldwide, and the reeds for wind instruments, crafted from local reeds along the riverbanks.
What to do in Cogolin to learn more about these unique crafts? Attend demonstrations and immerse yourself in the living history of this village in the Var, renowned for its contribution to France's heritage.
Taste the Local Flavors
The markets of Cogolin, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, are full of delicious products: honey, olive oil, cold cuts, and wine. They reflect the culinary identity of the French Riviera. These products, from the fertile lands of the Var, captivate with their authenticity.
What to do in Cogolin to delight your taste buds? Visit the Wednesday or Saturday market. After your shopping, explore the surrounding vineyards, some of which were already exporting their wines to Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud in the 19th century.
Stroll along the Giscle
The Giscle, this peaceful stream running through Cogolin, is an undiscovered gem of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Once essential to the local economy, this river powered mills and agricultural estates. Today, its banks have transformed into a bucolic walk, where fauna and flora thrive.
What to do in Cogolin along the Giscle? Enjoy a walk or bike ride to observe the kingfishers and contemplate the reflections of the Var hills, all the way to the outskirts of Port Grimaud.
Discover the Marinas of Cogolin
The Marinas of Cogolin are one of the gems of the French Riviera. This marina, developed in the 1960s, is now one of the largest in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Here, boating and relaxation blend together.
What to do in Cogolin in this marine setting? Rent a boat, take a trip to Port Grimaud or Saint-Tropez, or enjoy a meal by the dock, facing the sailboats gently swaying in the breeze.
Enjoy the Nearby Beaches
Although Cogolin is not directly on the coast, the beaches of Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez, two icons of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, are just a few minutes away. These golden shores were once anchorage points for the fishermen of the Var.
Explore the Hermitan Trails
The Hermitan hills surrounding Cogolin offer hiking trails perfect for escape. Once used by shepherds and merchants from the Var, these paths now reveal a spectacular panorama of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
What to do in Cogolin for nature lovers? Take the time to explore these trails where pine trees, cistus, and cork oaks create a true vegetal symphony. From the peaks, the views of Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez are unforgettable.
Immerse Yourself in the Cultural Life
The culture of Cogolin is a blend of history and living traditions. The Fête du Coq, a must-see event in the Var, celebrates the medieval legend in which this animal is said to have saved the village from imminent danger. Through shows, Provençal dances, and concerts, this festival embodies the warm spirit of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
What to do in Cogolin to immerse yourself in its culture? Participate in local events, often organized in collaboration with Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud, thus strengthening the unity of the villages in the gulf.
Discover the Vineyards and Taste the Wines
The vineyards of Cogolin, deeply rooted in the history of the French Riviera, produce wines appreciated well beyond the Var. Among the must-try estates, the Domaine de la Giscle stands out for its fruity rosés and traditional methods, while the prestigious Château Saint-Maur, classified as a Cru Classé, offers elegant and refined wines in a modern setting. The Château des Garcinières, with its history dating back to 1898, charms visitors with the authenticity of its Côtes-de-Provence wines, and the Domaine Val d’Astier impresses with its fresh and balanced cuvées.
What to do in Cogolin for an oenological experience? Taste fine rosés, typical of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, while learning the secrets of winemaking. Some vineyards even offer tours of their plots, with views of Saint-Tropez.