Visit Aups: The Treasure of the Verdon
What should you know about Aups before visiting?
Just a few minutes’ walk from our campground in Aups, L’Oasis du Verdon, a pleasant 300-meter walking path takes you to the heart of a charming Provençal village: Aups, the capital of the Haut-Var.
Aups is an iconic French town in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, in the Var department. As the gateway to the Verdon Regional Nature Park, this hilltop village, perched at an elevation of 500 meters, charms visitors with its Provençal atmosphere and historic houses. The residents of Aups, known as Aupsois, are proud of their heritage.
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The town is also the capital of black truffles in the Haut-Var region. Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring the lakes and gorges of the Verdon, including Lake Sainte-Croix. The town’s layout reveals its medieval origins.
Aups has a rich history dating back to antiquity. Julius Caesar is said to have passed through Aups during his conquest of Gaul. Traces of this Roman presence have been found in the area surrounding the village, such as an ancient hospital and milestones that once served as kilometer markers. During his visit to Aups, he wrote, “I’d rather be first in Aups than second in Rome.”
In the Middle Ages, Aups was a fortified town, with remnants of ramparts and its Saracen Tower. Aups was also a major center of the Republican resistance in 1851, led by local figures. This history has shaped the character of this town in the Var department.
The Truffle: Aups’ Culinary Treasure
Aups is proud of its “black diamond ”: the truffle, also known as “rabasse” in Provençal, a rare and fragrant mushroom that has made the village famous far beyond the Haut-Var region. While winter is the season for the famous truffle market, summer vacationers aren’t left out: the market stalls feature the summer truffle, which is milder but just as flavorful—perfect for savoring its sun-kissed aromas.
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Every Thursday, from the third Thursday in November to the third Thursday in February, the black truffle market takes place—a must-attend event for food lovers, chefs, and curious visitors who come to discover this exceptional product in a friendly and authentic atmosphere.
Every January, Aups celebrates truffles with a traditional festival that attracts curious visitors and food lovers alike: the Truffle Festival, where visitors can witness the blessing of the truffle-hunting pigs in the village square, followed by truffle-hunting demonstrations, tastings, and festive activities.
Local Flavors Just a stone’s throw from the campground
For an unforgettable culinary experience, several local restaurants feature truffles:
The Domaine de Majastre, nestled in the countryside, offers meals entirely dedicated to truffles in a warm and authentic atmosphere.
Le Solea and Le Saint Marc, two restaurants in the village, elevate their dishes with truffle accents, blending tradition and creativity.
There’s also a Truffle Museum where you can learn all about this exceptional product, exploring its traditions, gastronomy, and local expertise.
What to See and Do in Aups? Must-See Attractions in the Town
The Architectural Riches of Aups: A Journey Through Time
A visit to Aups takes you on a journey through the ages. Several landmarks stand out:
- The Clock Tower: the village’s landmark, with its wrought-iron bell tower and sundial bearing the inscription “Joie Monde.”
- The Saint-Pancrace Collegiate Church: an imposing 15th-century church in the Provençal Gothic style, dedicated to Saint Pancras, the patron saint of Aups, and rich in sacred art.
- The remains of the ramparts and the Saracen Tower: reminders of the medieval town’s fortified past.
- Historic chapels: including Notre-Dame de la Délivrance, and several crosses scattered throughout the town.
- Ancient fountains: bringing a touch of freshness to the village squares.
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- Old houses: with their facades typical of Provence, some of which were built by prominent families of the past.
- The public park: a haven of freshness and relaxation.
- Artisan shops: pottery, textiles, and local products.
- Lively outdoor patios: perfect for enjoying a glass of rosé.
- The restored former Ursuline convent is an important cultural site. The local architectural heritage also bears traces of the Augustinians and Trinitarians.
Aups’ charm is also evident in its shaded squares.
Culture and Traditions in Aups: The Provençal Way of Life
Throughout the year, Aups comes alive with its Provençal markets, local festivals, outdoor concerts, and craft fairs. In the summer, the streets buzz with activity and become the setting for friendly gatherings and cultural discoveries.
Every Thursday evening in July and August, the village hosts a night market featuring local products, crafts, music, and a summery atmosphere.
Aups is a vibrant cultural center and a major tourist destination in the Var.
- The Simon Segal Museum: Housed in the former Ursuline convent, this modern art museum features works by Simon Segal and artists inspired by Provence.
- The Provençal market in Aups: On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the main square comes alive with one of the region’s largest markets, offering local products and the famous truffles when in season.
- The Maison de la Truffe d’Aups et du Verdon: a space dedicated to the “black diamond” of the Haut-Var, featuring tastings and information. Aups is a must-visit destination for foodies.
Local crafts in Aups: pottery, paintings, sculptures, and regional specialties reflect Provençal craftsmanship. Artisans’ workshops welcome visitors eager to discover unique creations.
An Artistic Interlude at the Faykod Museum
Just a short walk from the campground, the Faykod Museum invites you to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary sculpture. Nestled in a lush green setting, this open-air museum showcases the monumental works of Maria de Faykod, an artist renowned for her work in white Carrara marble. Each piece, imbued with spirituality and poetry, interacts with the surrounding nature, offering visitors a unique and contemplative artistic experience.
Hikes Starting from the Campground
Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy thanks to the trails accessible directly from the campground:
- La Croix des Pins, for a panoramic view of the surrounding area
- The Caves Trail, which winds through the forest and past geological landmarks
- The hike up via La Périère, above Aups, for a more challenging and rugged hike
Discover these itineraries in detail—they offer magnificent views and a chance to fully immerse yourself in the Mediterranean vegetation.
Around Aups: Nature and Exploration in the Verdon
- The Verdon Gorges: Nearby, discover the Verdon Gorges, a spectacular canyon. Water sports, hiking, and scenic overlooks abound here, in the heart of the regional nature park.
- Lake Sainte-Croix: This vast artificial body of water is perfect for swimming and water sports. The towns around Lake Sainte-Croix are also worth a visit.
- The Verdon Regional Nature Park: Aups serves as a gateway to this park, which is home to protected flora and fauna. The “Regional Nature Park” designation attests to its value.
- Tourtour: nicknamed the “village in the sky,” perched high with a breathtaking view of Provence.
- Villecroze: known for its cave dwellings, its shaded park, and its medieval village with flower-lined streets and stone facades.
- Sillans-la-Cascade: famous for its spectacular waterfall nestled in a lush forest.
- Cotignac: nestled against a majestic cliff, blending art, history, and spirituality.
- The natural pools of La Muie: perfect for a refreshing break surrounded by nature
Located near the Verdon Gorges and Lake Sainte-Croix, Aups is the perfect starting point for nature excursions, hikes, swimming, or kayaking trips.
The village offers the perfect balance between Provençal authenticity and access to the region’s natural wonders.
From Aups, many villages are easily accessible for a day trip or half-day excursion. Each offers a unique atmosphere, remarkable scenery, and a rich heritage to explore.
Visit these other villages in the Verdon region —all of which are Provençal gems that are easy to reach from the campground—to enrich your stay with cultural excursions and enchanting scenery.
L’Oasis du Verdon: Your Vacation Haven
To fully enjoy everything that Aups and its surroundings have to offer, there’s nothing quite like a stay at L’Oasis du Verdon campground. This 4-star, friendly, family-oriented campground is ideally located just a short walk from the village, markets, hiking trails, and the Verdon’s iconic natural sites.
L’Oasis du Verdon is just 300 meters from the village of Aups, which you can easily reach on foot via the pedestrian path.
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Here you’ll find all the amenities you need for a great vacation:
- Spacious campsites set on grassy grounds —a true luxury in Provence! — nestled within a wooded park featuring a variety of trees: mulberry, plane, maple, poplar, cypress, and weeping willow, lined with flowering hedges of oleander and eleagnus;
- Fully equipped, comfortable mobile homes, cottages, and nature lodges, some of which—including our high-end models—even feature a private spa on the terrace for moments of total relaxation.
- A heated pool area, perfect for relaxing or having fun with the family
- A variety of activities: sports tournaments, theme nights, and entertainment for all ages
Key Takeaways About Aups:
- Location: a village in the Var department (zip code 83630), in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, at the gateway to the Verdon Regional Nature Park.
- Nicknames & Titles: “Capital of the Black Truffle of the Haut-Var,” Aups—a Village of Character.
- Historic Sites: Clock Tower (bell tower, “Inscription Joie Monde” sundial), Saint-Pancrace Collegiate Church, Sarrasine Tower, Simon Segal Art Museum (former Ursuline convent).
- Activities & Culture: Provençal market (Wednesdays and Saturdays), Maison de la Truffe, history of the Dukes of Blacas, hiking, proximity to the Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix.
- Character: an authentic Provençal village, rich history (Antoine Faure), and a certain art of living. The town of Aups is a major tourist destination in the Haut-Var region.
The Town of Aups and Its Surroundings
