Flayosc is a commune in the Var in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, 7 km west of Draguignan.
Located halfway the Verdon and the Mediterranean coast (35 km), its vast territory of 46 square kilometers ranges from 140 to 752 meters, and is the holder of the Haut-Var the Alps.
Already occupied in ancient times Flayosc develops in the early Middle Ages on a rocky promontory. Destroyed by the Saracens, it was rebuilt by his lords around the church and its bell tower, surrounded by ramparts strengthened with.
Under the old regime, the village is erected into a barony and marquisate, its people enjoying gifts granted from the fourteenth century by Queen Jeanne and Countess of Provence.
During the Revolution, the last lord and marquis Flayosc Alexandre Villeneuve took refuge in Aix-en-Provence. The people took the opportunity to demolish the castle in May 1792. Then, until the early twentieth century, the town enjoyed prosperity through the crafting of the shoe, but also the introduction of pottery and brickworks. Today, viticulture, production of olive oil (many mills) and tourism boost the economy. With 4300 inhabitants, picturesque heritage and a green environment conducive to hiking, Flayosc has it all as long as we move away from the beaches and major nearby sites.
At the heart of the old village remain heritage features reflecting its rich past.
This is the case of the three gates which once marked out ramparts: the Golden Gate, the door of Paris, next to Place Bremond and a former post house, and the door of the Reinesse over the place eponym.
The medieval castle, rebuilt by the barons and marquis until the eighteenth century, remains only a section of wall near the church. It is dedicated to St. Lawrence, built in the eleventh century, has certainly been remodeled but it retains a certain charm thanks to its bell bulb containing eighteenth century bells that dominates the village. Information at +33 6 67 96 70 45.
Several chapels also dot the territory, but also wash houses, fountains and wells (in the village or at the discretion of the paths) of dry stone huts, lime kilns or the ancient oppidum of Castellard-Saint-Lambert.
In a more contemporary register, isolated in the scrubland, the Orthodox monastery Saint-Michel du Var was built and founded in 1982 in a contemporary architectural style but stripped. It has a Byzantine-inspired church entirely painted Romanesque frescoes on 500 sqm. Visits and pensions can provided you do not disturb the peace of the religious. Information +33 4 94 73 12 40.
It should also mention the Domaine des Treilles, sitting in the towns of Flayosc and Tourtour in a vast protected natural area. Y was built a center for studies and research in the fields of science, literature and arts, governed by a foundation. The contemporary buildings were made on the basis of traditional buildings. The site and the foundation were created under the impetus of the patron and collector, Anne Gruner Schlumberger (1905-1993). The Estate welcomes artists and scholars in residence and offers exhibitions open to the public, all in an exceptional setting. Information at +33 4 94 50 57 50.
The village, the surrounding countryside (wooded hills, olive groves, vineyards) are the subject of thematic marked trails dedicated to hikers (and who does not present major difficulties). Three are devoted to heritage (discovery along the water, discover historical monuments, the natural and agricultural heritage). Five circuits offer greater magnitude. Obviously, tasting breaks are possible with winemakers, growers and beekeepers, and views of the Alps or southern Var punctuate these walks. Maps and information +33 4 94 99 14 11 or +33 4 94 70 40 03.
For cycling enthusiasts and ATV, small area roads or paths abound, plus a section of the Euro Bike 8 (called Bike route of the Mediterranean) which will ultimately link Cadiz in Athens. Map available on +33 4 94 99 14 11. Note also that a rental point of electric bicycles is located on the town: Contact +33 6 98 21 87 24.
An adventure park with tree-climbing course, Flay'Forest, is also available for families. Open from April to November during holidays and / or reservation. Information at +33 6 59 90 60 86.
Finally, a game of tennis, simply book a court at +33 6 14 84 44 94.
Every Monday morning, the typical Provence market is proving a great opportunity to understand the richness of the land in the region.
In mid-March, feast of St. Patrick with dancing.
The last Saturday of June, the "Flay-Color" is a friendly race in which large and small through colorful clouds via natural pigments.
In mid-August, over three days, votive feast of St. Lawrence with traditional events and concerts.
The third weekend in September, soapbox race with intensive graphics and music.
The first Sunday of December, Christmas market.
