Chic and Zen, the Fréjus pine forest! Vineyards and forests that have become an artists' village, an artists' village that has become a residential area sought after and prized by locals and holidaymakers; the Tour de Mare is also a place of national memory where the names of heroes resonate for eternity in the shadow of grandiose monuments.
A gateway to nature
With its 8000 inhabitants, La Tour de Mare is no longer a village of artists, but the spirit has never really left, with the splendid Cocteau chapel, named after the artist who painted the stained glass windows of the octagonal holy place, as its jealous guardian of tradition.
Another explosive holy place nestled in the heart of the district is the Buddhist pagoda Hông Hien Tû built by the Indochinese riflemen who were present in large numbers in the city's barracks. Its dragons and golden Buddhas watch over the 24.000 or so graves in the national necropolis of the Indochina War Memorial, which covers nearly 23.000 square meters around the grave of General Bigeard.
Place of life and memory
There is nothing missing from the Tour de Mare: the tranquility of a forest of thousand-year-old pines, solidarity associations, places of life and places of memory coexist in the setting of the pine forest which even has a small peaceful lake!
Residents and holidaymakers from the many housing estates spend peaceful days there just a few kilometres from the Roman ruins, the medieval cathedral and the fine sandy beaches...
Top 5 things to see/do on the Tour de Mare and the Esterel
01
A hike to Mount Vinaigre
Climb to the top of Mont Vinaigre, the highest point in the Esterel massif! This accessible hike offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the Alps. Between red rocks, green forests and azure skies, the setting is magical. An exotic experience to live in the heart of nature, ideal for recharging your batteries!
02
Visit the Villa Aurélienne and its superb park
Discover the Villa Aurélienne, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of the Aurélien park in Fréjus. This 24-hectare estate combines heritage and nature, with its shaded gardens and pine-lined paths. Stroll in an enchanting setting, ideal for relaxing or picnicking with the family. A unique place combining history and serenity, not to be missed!
03
A place of memory and emotions: the Malpasset dam
Explore the historical site of the Malpasset dam, nestled in a wild and preserved setting. This walk offers an immersion in nature, with impressive views of the remains of the dam. Between the calm of the Reyran River and the striking atmosphere of the place, the visit is memorable. A must to combine hiking and memory!
04
Take a breath of fresh air at Lake Avellan
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Lake Avellan, nestled in the heart of the Esterel massif. This peaceful place invites you to relax, surrounded by green hills and magnificent landscapes. Ideal for a family walk, a picnic or a nature break. Let yourself be seduced by this enchanting setting, perfect for recharging your batteries in all simplicity!
05
Discover the secrets of the Cocteau Chapel
Visit the Notre-Dame-de-Jérusalem chapel, known as the Cocteau chapel, an artistic gem nestled in a green setting. Designed by Jean Cocteau, it seduces with its vibrant frescoes and intimate atmosphere. Every detail tells a story, mixing art and spirituality. A unique place to discover, where culture and serenity meet.
Things to see/do at Tour de Mare and in the Esterel massif
