Aups (Zaou in provencal) is the Capital of the Haut Var. Situated at 505m above sea level, in the lower foothills of the alps, Aups is 60km from the coast and 80km from the ski slopes with a healthy climate-dry and temperate offering ideal vacation conditions. Aups is the Southern gateway to the Gorges Du Verdon - known for its picturesque scenery and many sporting activities.
Although you need go no further than our local, historic town of Aups for a taste of Provence and its famous truffle market, we are in a region of extreme natural beauty with a wealth of flora and fauna for nature lovers.
We are surrounded by incredible scenery, from fortified medieval hill-top villages to the magnificent Gorges Du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe. The Lac St Croix provides a base for many watersports. The lavender plateau of Valensole is only a short drive away.
Surrounded by local producers there are gastronomic delights at every corner, not forgetting many hectares of vineyards and the wine-tasting experience.
Both the Alpes of Haute Provence and the resorts of the Côte d'Azur, such as St Tropez, Antibes, Cannes and Nice are easily accessible by car.
A two hour drive will take you on a journey through spectacular scenery to the source of the Verdon River at the Val d'Allos - also a ski resort in winter.
Things to Do
Perhaps you just want to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the climate, but there is a lot to do in the area for the more active.
Water Sports
Water sports area available on the Lac St Croix to include sailing, pedal boats, windsurfing, fishing and swimming.
Various parking places are available around the shores of the lake - a perfect setting for a family day out with a picnic.
White waters of the river Verdon provide rafting, canyoning and kayaking.
Local firms have taken advantage of the surroundings and provide various days of adventure.
Scenic Trips
A spectacular drive into the mountains for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. In summer the snowbound slopes are transformed into a haven for hikers providing spectacular scenery.
Les Gorges Du Verdon
Drive around the second largest canyon in the world - Les Gorges Du Verdon - Don't miss La Route des Crêtes.
Walking, Hiking & Mountain Biking
This is the area to exercise outdoor pursuits. Maps and routes are available form the Tourist Office in Aups. Organised walks are available. There are several cycle routes amid beautiful scenery.
Visits To Historic Villages
The Haut Var area is steeped in history and there are many medieval villages to visit all telling their own stories. These perched, hilltop villages can be found around us - Aiguines, Tourtour, Moustières, Saint Marie, Moissac Bellevue, Cotignac, Villecroze to name but a few.
Markets
There are provençal markets in the region every day. Aups itself has a twice weekly market overflowing with colourful produce. Click here to view local market days
Winetasting
We are surrounded by domains and chateaux all producing their own very drinkable wines. Most of these establishments offer wine tasting. You are not compelled to buy wine in bulk. You can buy a single bottle.
Some of the vineyards also have shop selling other local specialities. Click here to follow the wine route
The cultural centre of Aix en Provence - a cosmopolitan and chic city steeped in history is one hour away
Marseille is the oldest city in France and one of the most cosmopolitan, with its ancient heritage, distinctive culture, strong identity and ethnic mix - not to mention the famous bouillabaisse
The Riviera hot spots of Cannes, Nice and Monaco are also easily accessible
Islands
The beautiful Iles d'Or are only a short boat ride from Hyeres
Local Amenities
Le Diamant Noir is situated 1km from the town of Aups. Aups is a very attractive, genuine provençal town and provides all the amenities that you require - banks, post office, pharmacy, medical service, numerous food shops, twice-weekly market, cafés, bars, several good restaurants, gift shops, tourist office, tennis courts etc. All of these are within easy walking distance. The well-stocked supermarket is conveniently situated just across the road.
