Charming little village of Var, on the left bank of the Grand Canyon, Aiguines takes place seven kilometers from Lake St. Croix and twenty kilometers from Aups. It is located at the gates of the Verdon gorges, in the heart of Provence and the Verdon Natural Park.
Occupied since the Gallo-Roman era, as evidenced by the remains found on the spot, the territory of Aiguines developed in the Middle Ages under the influence of the Benedictine Abbey Saint-Victor de Marseille. Under the influence of the Knights Templar from the twelfth century, the town became famous in the sixteenth century for its wood crafts, activity that lasted until the 1920s with the creation of petanque balls studded with nails.
Today, Aiguines continues to captivate visitors with its rich architectural and historical heritage that reflects a rich and glorious past.
Built at the beginning of the 17th century on the site of the former Saint-Victor chapel, the Saint-Jean church has evolved and expanded over the centuries. Inside, you can admire a very beautiful Christ on the cross classified to the Historical Monuments, as well as a masonry made of rubble stone with corners of cut stone.
Located on the heights of the village, the Saint-Pierre chapel unveils an orientation table with a unique view of the Sainte-Croix lake and the Valensole plateau. Around the building, it is possible to discover some vestiges of the old castrum.
While strolling in the old center, you will be able to appreciate the old houses and the houses with terraces and vaulted porches. Renovated in the late 1990s, Place de la Fontaine features a four-gun fountain and a cylindrical campanile square belfry. Several terraces of coffee can enjoy the setting or admire the old wash.
Today private residence not accessible to the public, the castle of Aiguines dates from medieval times. Restored at the beginning of the seventeenth century, it also knows other changes the following century including the development of gardens. These are now classified, while the roof and facades are subject to an inscription to the Historical Monuments.
Located in the heart of the village, the museum of wood turners traces the history of this craft in the region. Labeled Museum of France, it unveils unique collections and many testimonials.
A circuit is proposed to discover all the heritage of the village, and there are also several hiking trails like the GR99 which goes up to Grand Margès. The Grand Canyon can be discovered by car, but also on foot, or canoe, kayak, pedal boat, electric boat or via climbing routes.
Bungee jumping, white water or paragliding are also on the agenda.
The market is held every Tuesday morning. A potters market is also offered on the last Thursday of July.
Every year "Bio and Nature Day" animates the beginning of the summer season.
The votive village festival takes place on the first weekend of August.
"The Tourned Wood Days" are held in mid-August.
For the detailed program of the festivities, contact the Tourist Information Office of Aiguines.
Var Verdon Trail Canyon
- On 15 june 2024
- Centre du village, Pré communal
- Annaul trail organized by Aeria in the heart of the Verdon Gorges.
