Pignans: Cultural History and Berthoire

Pignans offers several distinct points of interest for a trip: medieval architectural history, a collegiate church documented since 1080, Roman traces in Berthoire and seasonal bathing options. You can choose where to stay based on whether cultural history, the park and water, or a hike will shape your visit. If you’re looking for a hotel in Pignans, these interests can help you decide what to focus on during your trip.

Architectural history in Pignans

The Tour de l’Horloge, also known as the Porte Sarrasine, dates from 1630 and marks the site of the wall of the second medieval fortification. The Chapel of the White Penitents of Saint André was built outside the city walls in the 13th century. Both buildings point to different aspects of the town’s history: the tower’s location marks a fortification wall, while the chapel stood beyond the walls.

The collegiate church is also one of Pignans’ important historical landmarks. It has been documented since 1080, and a papal bull from 1152 attests to its significance. The town’s history therefore brings together different periods: the collegiate church’s early documentation, the chapel’s construction in the 13th century and the tower dating from 1630. Visitors interested in architectural and local history will find more here than just a single period.

Roman traces and a park in Berthoire

In Berthoire, the foundations of buildings and houses, as well as remains of vats and wine presses from the Roman village of Pignans, are still visible. These traces differ from the named buildings in town: here, it is the foundation remains and remnants of vats and wine presses that point to the Roman settlement. This gives the town’s history a Roman dimension alongside its medieval landmarks.

The Domaine de Berthoire park features several types of water features: streams, a fishpond, fountains and canals. Picnic tables are available, so visitors can use the park throughout the day. Check local access conditions when planning a visit. The park and Roman traces give Berthoire different points of interest, whether you’re more interested in its water features or the history of the settlement.

Seasonal bathing options

Pignans Plage is located in the Domaine de Berthoire in the town centre. Seasonal options include open swimming, as well as supervised activities for learning to swim and aquagym. The facility has a 20 × 10 m pool, a paddling pool for younger children and a 7 m-high waterslide. Facility details may change from season to season, so check the information for the relevant season before planning your swimming time or supervised activities.

Hiking and getting there

The GR9 trail leads from Pignans on foot to the Notre-Dame des Anges chapel and runs mostly along the Oratory Way, which was used as a pilgrimage route. The route thus combines a specific destination with a historical connection. Check local trail conditions before setting out. The Massif des Maures forms the backdrop to Pignans and offers striking scenery and a wide range of hiking opportunities.

The A57 crosses the commune of Pignans from east to west between Toulon and Le Luc. Pignans railway station is served by the Marseille–Toulon–Les Arcs–Draguignan line. For a specific train journey, it is advisable to check the current timetable. The road route and rail connection offer different options for planning your journey; check your chosen route against your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Flassans-Sur-Issole, Belgentier, Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Saint-Tropez, La Bouillabaisse, Bagnols-En-Forêt, Hyères, Carces.

For the wider travel overview: Var.