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Just a few minutes’ walk from our campsite in Aups, L’Oasis du Verdon, a pleasant 300-metre pedestrian path leads you straight into the heart of a charming Provençal village: Aups, the capital of the Haut-Var.
Aups is an emblematic French village in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, in the Var department. As a gateway to the Verdon Regional Natural Park, this hilltop village, set at an altitude of 500 metres, captivates visitors with its Provençal atmosphere and historic houses. The people of Aups, known as the Aupsois, are proud of their heritage.
The village is also the capital of black truffles in the Haut-Var. Its geographical location makes it an ideal base for exploring the lakes and gorges of the Verdon, including the famous Lac de Sainte-Croix. The layout of the village reveals its medieval origins.
Aups has a rich past dating back to Antiquity. Julius Caesar is said to have passed through Aups during the conquest of Gaul. In the surrounding area, traces of this Roman presence have been discovered, such as an ancient hospital and milestone markers once used as distance indicators. During his visit to Aups, he is said to have written: “I would rather be first in Aups than second in Rome.”
In the Middle Ages, Aups was a fortified stronghold, with remains of its ramparts and its iconic Saracen Tower. Aups was also a major centre of republican resistance in 1851, marked by local historical figures. This past has shaped the strong character of this village in the Var.
Aups is proud of its black diamond: the truffle, also known as rabasse in Provençal. This rare and aromatic mushroom has brought the village renown far beyond the Haut-Var. While winter is the season of the famous truffle market, summer visitors are not left out. Market stalls also feature the summer truffle, milder in flavour but just as delicious, perfect for discovering its sun-kissed aromas.
Every Thursday, from the third Thursday of November to the third Thursday of February, the black truffle market takes place. This unmissable event attracts food lovers, chefs and curious visitors eager to discover this exceptional product in a friendly and authentic atmosphere.
Each January, Aups celebrates the truffle with a traditional festival that draws both the curious and gourmet enthusiasts: the Truffle Festival. Highlights include the blessing of the truffle pigs in the village square, followed by truffle-hunting demonstrations, tastings and festive entertainment.
For an unforgettable culinary experience, several local venues put truffles in the spotlight:
A Truffle Museum also awaits you, offering insight into this exceptional product through traditions, gastronomy and local know-how.
Right next to the campsite, don’t miss a visit to the Gervasoni olive oil mill, a family-run institution where you can discover the secrets behind traditional olive oil production. A wonderful opportunity to taste fragrant olive oil typical of the Provençal terroir and to meet passionate professionals.
Visiting Aups is a journey through the centuries. Several landmarks stand out:
The charm of Aups is also revealed through its shaded squares.
Throughout the year, Aups comes alive with Provençal markets, local festivals, open-air concerts and craft evenings. In summer, the streets buzz with activity, becoming a stage for friendly encounters and cultural discoveries.
In July and August, every Thursday evening, the village hosts a night market, combining local produce, crafts, music and a festive summer atmosphere.
Aups is a vibrant cultural centre and a key tourism hub in the Var.
Local craftsmanship in Aups: pottery, paintings, sculptures and regional products reflect Provençal know-how. Artisan workshops welcome visitors curious to discover unique creations.
Just a short walk from the campsite, 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 monumental works by Maria de Faykod, an artist renowned for her creations in white Carrara marble.
Each piece, imbued with spirituality and poetry, interacts with the surrounding nature, offering visitors a unique and contemplative artistic experience.
Nature lovers will be delighted by the trails accessible directly from the campsite:
Explore these routes in detail, offering magnificent viewpoints and full immersion in Mediterranean vegetation.
Located close to the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de 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 reachable for day trips or half-day outings. Each offers a unique atmosphere, remarkable landscapes and rich heritage to explore:
From Aups, visit other Verdon villages. These villages are true Provençal treasures, easy to explore from the campsite, enriching your stay with cultural walks and enchanting landscapes.
To fully enjoy everything Aups and its surroundings have to offer, there’s nothing better than staying at L’Oasis du Verdon campsite. Rated 3 stars, this friendly, family-run campsite is ideally located, just steps from the village, markets, hiking trails and the Verdon’s iconic natural sites. L’Oasis du Verdon is only 300 metres from the village of Aups, easily accessible on foot via the pedestrian path.
You will find all the comfort you need for a successful holiday:
Caractère : village provençal authentique, histoire riche (Antoine Faure), art de vivre. La commune d’Aups est un pôle touristique du Haut-Var.
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