Tourism: a stable summer in the Provence Verte-Cœur du Var region

Good news for the tourism sector: visitor numbers have not faltered this summer in the Provence Verte, Provence Verdon, and Cœur du Var regions. Despite a timid start to July, industry professionals are confident. "Visitors in our area have been stable compared to last year, and it was already a good season," says Olivier Lanfranchi, director of the Cœur du Var tourist office.

The figures confirm a well-established trend: the destination primarily attracts French visitors. "We're looking at 85% French and 15% foreigners, which is a particularity of our area" compared to the rest of the Var, recalls Audrey Falcou, director of the Provence verte Verdon office. "Inland, they are often visitors from other regions of France, but if you go down to the coast, you immediately find many more foreigners," she continues. The Île-de-France and the South region dominate the number of visitors, ahead of Auvergne Rhône-Alpes, Hauts-de-France, and Grand Est. On the international side, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom complete the ranking.

The positioning of the Provence verte Verdon particularly appeals to Parisians looking for peace and quiet and mobility. "The retro-coastal position is interesting for those who want to enjoy the coast and the Verdon without being stuck there," underlines Olivier Lanfranchi.

Heritage, hiking and local produce in the spotlight

When it comes to activities, the classics are the most popular. Heritage remains the top priority, followed by leisure and festivities, although these are down slightly. Hiking, on the other hand, is booming: up 50% compared to last year. "It's free, accessible, and in the current economic climate, that's incredibly important," observes Audrey Falcou.

Emblematic sites are progressing, such as Thoronet Abbey, Aoubré Park in Flassans, and the Turtle Village in Carnoules. The summer also saw a surge in events at wineries, which have multiplied in recent years. "This summer, we had eleven. It went very well; some even had to turn people away," confirms Olivier Lanfranchi.

A strategic off-season

While July and August still represent the heart of the season, autumn is gaining in importance. "For the past three years, autumn has been a good time, with a high-quality clientele, often made up of childless couples and seniors," notes Audrey Falcou. Hiking, grape harvests, local festivals, and heritage events should ensure a steady flow until All Saints' Day, if the weather remains mild. "Everything will depend on the weather. We were expecting a beautiful May, and the rain ruined everything. If the weather is good, the late season will certainly be a success," explains the director of the Provence Verte Verdon tourist office.

Overall, tourism officials are showing relief tinged with optimism. "I was expecting a much more difficult summer, especially because of the economic climate, but we were pleasantly surprised," she concludes. In this land of nature and authenticity, tourism is moving forward with serenity, driven by the loyalty of visitors and the diversity of its offerings.