Claviers: Hiking and Provençal Village Character

Claviers stretches along a rocky outcrop, overlooking the fertile little valley of the Riou. Olive-covered hills and forests of holm oaks and pines surround the village. The family trail runs through Puy Forest to the Chapelle Sainte-Anne, while steep lanes and covered passages convey the character of earlier Provençal life. The description of the village’s location presents Claviers as a whole; the route details, by contrast, set a specific outing in context. This lets you choose a focus, such as hiking, views or local history.

Hiking in Puy Forest

The family trail through Puy Forest to the Chapelle Sainte-Anne offers two options. The longer route is 6.5 kilometres and takes two hours; the shorter is 5.2 kilometres long and takes one hour and 45 minutes. Both options are rated easy and have an elevation gain of 350 metres. The shorter route is 1.3 kilometres less and takes 15 minutes less. Since both have the same difficulty rating and elevation gain, the specific difference is in distance and time; both lead to the Chapelle Sainte-Anne.

Option A also offers the possibility of reaching the Oppidum of Claviers at a trail junction. At the junction, turn left and walk another 100 metres; then turn left again to reach the uphill path. This additional detour adds a specific destination to Option A if you would like to include the Oppidum in your outing.

Chapels and Provençal village character

The Chapelle Sainte-Anne lies at an elevation of 625 metres in the Puy municipal forest and offers an exceptional view across the whole Dracénie area. A description updated on 9 April 2020 rated access to the Chapelle Sainte-Anne as easy for all walkers; check local conditions before your visit. Its elevation, forest setting and views give the destination a landscape focus distinct from the historical description of the village.

The Chapelle Saint Sylvestre was built in 1026 and served as the village church until the 13th century. The construction date and former function provide two distinct historical reference points: the year dates its construction, while the time period places its role in the village in context. In summer, the chapel serves as an exhibition venue; the exhibition programme may vary. Its former religious function and seasonal use therefore belong to different periods.

Steep lanes and covered passages convey the character of earlier Provençal life. Unlike the history of the Chapelle Saint Sylvestre, which can be placed in a specific time period, the village streetscape shapes the historical impression here. Those interested not only in individual buildings but also in the form of the village will find these lanes and passages a distinct way to explore Claviers’ past.

When choosing between the two chapels, there is a clear difference in focus: Sainte-Anne is associated with the hiking trail, Puy Forest and views; Saint Sylvestre with its construction date, former role as the village church and summer exhibitions.

Discover more destinations: Tourrettes, Hyères, La Valette-Du-Var, Seillans, Mazaugues, Châteauvert, Mons, La Cadière-D'azur

For the broader travel overview: Var.