The Var is a predominantly Mediterranean department characterised by forested hills, river valleys, wetlands and an extensive coastline. Its habitats support a wide range of reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals, with biodiversity shaped by climate, geology and seasonal water availability across inland and coastal zones.

These are listed by order of importance, National, Regional Parks, Reserves and local hotspots that should be of interest to all nature lovers, whether serious listers or casual observers.

These sites fall outside formal protected area boundaries but are widely recognised for their ecological significance.

Spring (March–May)

One of the most productive periods in the Var. Migration is visible along the coastline, river valleys and inland ridges, with raptors, swifts and passerines moving north. Wetlands such as the Argens plain and coastal lagoons support breeding waterbirds, while amphibians, reptiles and early-emerging insects become increasingly active. Botanical diversity peaks, particularly in lowland garrigue and woodland clearings.

Early Summer (June)

Breeding activity dominates across habitats. Coastal cliffs support nesting seabirds, inland forests and scrub hold active songbird territories, and insect life reaches high diversity, particularly butterflies, dragonflies and orthopterans. Activity is best early morning and late afternoon as temperatures rise quickly, especially away from the coast.

Autumn (September–October)

A key season for wildlife observation. Post-breeding dispersal and southbound migration bring movement through coastal corridors, river systems and elevated viewpoints. Raptors are again prominent, insect numbers remain high in warm spells, and wetlands regain importance as stopover sites. Marine conditions can also favour cetacean sightings offshore during calmer periods.

Winter (December–February)

Best focused on wetlands, river mouths and sheltered coastal areas. The Var coast and estuaries host wintering waterbirds, while inland habitats remain quieter but can still support resident mammals and birds of prey. Periods of mild weather can produce surprising activity, particularly along the coast and in low-elevation valleys.

Please refer to our code of conduct page for responsible recording and observation.