What to do in Aiguines? The must-sees to discover from our campsite
Published on 06/06/2025 by CAMPASUN
Looking for a destination combining nature, history and authenticity for your next camping trip? Cap sur Aiguines, the pearl of the Verdon! This little jewel of tourism in the Var nestled at the gates of the Gorges du Verdon is made for you! Just a few steps from our 3-star campsite, this perched village invites you to a getaway between lake and mountain, with a breathtaking view of the lake of Sainte-Croix. So, ready to discover what to do in Aiguines? It’s time to book your dates and get out your sneakers! Notice to lovers of open spaces: Aiguines is waiting for you!
Discovering Aiguines: a village between Provence and Verdon
Perched at an altitude of more than 800 metres in the department of Var, Aiguines proudly dominates the lake of Sainte-Croix and nestles in the heart of the Verdon regional natural park. This authentic and charming village retains the traces of a medieval past, visible in its narrow streets, old stones and old houses with red tiles.
Located between Draguignan and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Aiguines appeals to both nature lovers and history buffs. This corner of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region is nestled at the crossroads between the Verdon gorges and the Valensole plateau, famous for its lavender fields. What to do in Aiguines? Stroll through its streets, discover its heritage, admire the plunging views of the Verdon canyon and enjoy the tranquility!
Visit the castle of Aiguines: a witness to the history of Provence
Imposing, perched above the village, the castle of Aiguines attracts all eyes. Recognizable by its colorful roofs in glazed tiles, it dominates the landscape as a guardian of the gorges du Verdon. This building, now private, can be seen from the outside. It symbolizes the elegance of the Renaissance, with its towers, its French gardens and its silhouette that watches over the lake Sainte-Croix. The walk around the castle of Aiguines reveals a spectacular panorama on the Verdon. It is also a perfect spot for lovers of photos, clear views and sunsets. It is in front of this castle that we understand how nature and history are intertwined with Aiguines. And if you are still wondering what to do in Aiguines, start with this point of view!
Discover the Museum of Wood Turners: a tribute to a unique know-how
In Aiguines, wood is not just a material; it is a know-how passed on from generation to generation. The Musée des Tourneurs sur bois, housed in an old village house, celebrates this local tradition. We discover how the craftsmen shape the studded balls of the shepherds or everyday objects thanks to their wood tower.
The exhibition combines old tools, demonstrations and unique pieces. It pays tribute to these men of the shadow, true artists of olive wood, boxwood or juniper. The collections of this museum are labeled «Musée de France», highlighting a rare heritage. An enriching and touching visit, perfect for the grey days. It is also a good plan if you are wondering what to do in Aiguines with your family. A fascinating immersion in local history, where wood is transformed into objects of art.
Address: place de la Résistance, 83630 Aiguines
Opening hours: in July and August, the museum is open every day from 10am to 7pm. For the rest of the year, you should check opening times directly on the official website of the museum before visiting.
Rates: the adult rate is 3.5 €. Access is free for children under 7 years old.
Entering the Saint-Pierre chapel: a haven of serenity
Set away from the village, the chapel of Saint-Pierre awaits you in a soothing calm. Surrounded by cypresses and lavender, this small rural church promises a moment of peace, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre. It dates back to the 17th century and was once a place of pilgrimage.
Inside, the sobriety of the furniture contrasts with the beauty of the frescoes and the delicacy of the place. A serene atmosphere, almost out of time. For those who love spiritual halts or secret corners, this chapel is an ideal parenthesis. At the top, near this church, an orientation table awaits you – the ideal spot to capture at a glance the splendors of the village of Aiguines and its surroundings.
If you don’t know what to do in Aiguines after a sporting morning or a walk on the shores of Lake Sainte-Croix, this chapel would be among the best alternatives.
Address: 83630 Aiguines, France
Opening hours: open every day
Prices: free access
Choose a hike in the Verdon gorges
Impossible to miss: the Gorges du Verdon are one of the jewels of France, a vertiginous canyon carved by the river in the limestone plateaus of Haute Provence. The village of Aiguines is right on the edge of this extraordinary geological spectacle, the largest canyon in Europe.
Start from the Galetas bridge or the Mescla viewpoint, and follow the trails that run along the cliffs. The most famous is the Blanc-Martel trail, but several routes from Aiguines allow you to discover the corners of the Verdon. You may encounter vultures, climbers or kayakers below. And if you are looking for activities to do in Aiguines on a day, these excursions in the gorges fill the program.
Gravir le Grand Margès: for lovers of open spaces
Want to measure yourself at an emblematic summit of the Verdon? The ascent of the Grand Margès promises a great adventure for those who like to take heights, both literally and figuratively. Starting from Aiguines, the trail climbs slowly but surely, crossing a wild and preserved vegetation, away from the tumult.
This hike requires good physical fitness but what a reward once at the top! Up there, the view opens on a breathtaking scenery: the lake of Sainte-Croix below, the gorges of the Verdon that stretch as far as the eye can see, the Alps that border the horizon… and all the charm of Provence spread out at your feet. A moment suspended, perfect to reconnect to the essential.
It is a must-see tour to plan if you are still looking for what to do in Aiguines during a stay in Aiguines.
Starting point: parking in Aiguines
Distance: 12 km
Average duration: 6 hours
Altitude difference: 827 m
Difficulty level: difficult
Vary the pleasures of the water between the lake of Sainte-Croix and the beaches of Galetas and Chabassole
After the walk, go to the beaches! The lake of Sainte-Croix, close to Aiguines, offers several spots for swimming and relaxing. The beaches of Galetas and Chabassole are the most accessible from the village. Fine sand, turquoise waters, protected environment: the place ticks all the boxes for a cool break in summer.
These beaches are also starting points to rent a pedal boat, paddle or picnic feet in the water. You will often see the reflections of the cliffs and the ballet of the kayaks that go up the gorges of the Verdon. With family, friends or lovers, these corners perfectly complement your holiday program in Aiguines.
Aiguines is a discreet pearl, nestled between water and rock, in the heart of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Whether you are looking for a natural corner, an authentic atmosphere or a starting point to discover the Verdon, Aiguines and the ideal destination. Easily accessible from our 3-star campsite, this village in the Var has everything to seduce. So, still curious to know what to do in Aiguines? The hardest part will be to choose!
