You are entering a remarkable natural area of 43 ha, located in the western part of the Lake of Saint-Cassien.
Classified as a Biotope Protection Order, since 1988, by the Prefect of the Var, to guarantee the conservation of natural environments, the Fondurane Biological Reserve is home to a rich and varied fauna and flora, which must be preserved.
The diversity of the source rocks (limestone and solica) and ancestral activities have conditioned the mosaic of environments. The biotope is home to numerous plant species from both open and forest environments. As time went by, water-sensitive vegetation (poplars, willows, reedbeds, etc.) was established near the shores of the lake. Beyond the upper limit of the water, plant formations have not varied and we can observe original forest formations (hornbeam, suberaies, pine forests, etc.) that concentrate remarkable species. But the specificity of the site is largely carried by the Quercus crenata oak.
Formerly called Quercus pseudosuber or Quercus fontanesii, the Quercus Crenata oak is a hybrid of the cork oak and the hairy oak (it is also called the "false oak"). Discovered thanks to a census carried out during the impounding of the Saint-Cassien dam, its shape is very slender and its cork bark very thick. Its name "Crenata" comes from the shape of its serrated leaves. Very rare, it is only found in places where the local climate is favourable. The fresh woods of the Fondurane biotope make it a perfect place for the development of this species, and represents the most beautiful forest in France hosting oaks of this type.
The biotope of Fondurane evolves with the seasons, renewing its landscapes and the methods for discovering it. A hike in the Fondurane biotope is always a unique experience, thanks to its ever-changing fauna and flora. Don't hesitate to multiply your hikes in this preserved area, and tell us, as a commentary, in which season you prefer it !
Nature wakes up !
During spring, nature is in turmoil, frogs sing on the shore and parade to find a mate, while reptiles come out of their hiding places to enjoy the first rays of sunshine.
A quiet place ideal for leisure activities
There are many ways to visit the Fondurane site. Some prefer to discover it by bike, others by paddle, but one thing is certain; the reserve leaves no one indifferent.
A "spot" open to sinners in autumn
Fishing is a passionate activity that must be practiced within the framework of the regulations. We refer you to the site of the fishing federation to know the opening periods.
Nature takes its time...
Now it's the fishes' turn to take centre stage! They set off in search of a partner, while amateur photographers immortalize the pond, often veiled by a light mist.
Use your mobile phone to discover the biotope of Fondurane and get to know the natural environment of this place in an interactive way, thanks to visual and audio content. The digital trail is made up of 12 thematic stations hidden along the walkway allowing you to discover the local fauna and flora: wetlands, aquatic environment, observatory, fish life, oaks...
How do you do it ?
Download the application “Pistes et Trésors” on your smartphone and launch the circuit "Cap nature à Fondurane".
Available on Apple Store and Google Play
Post your most beautiful photos with the hashtag #VisitEsterel and follow our account @esterelcotedazur to be reposted !
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The Pays de Fayence (Fayence district) has many great provencal villages. All of them have a particularity such as the view from Mons or the artistic streets of Tourrettes. Do no forget to stop in Seillans that has the label of "Most beautiful village in France"
North of the A8 motorway, you will find the Pays de Fayence. Saint-Cassien lake, a real oasis of freshness in the Var, awaits you! Take a break at the Lake House before visiting the villages of Bagnols-en-Forêt, St-Paul-en-Forêt or Tanneron.
The city of Roquebrune-sur-Argens is the most westerly of the destination. It includes three districts: La Bouverie, at the foot of Gorges du Blavet; The village, overlooked by its magnificent rock, and Les Issambres, with its nautical activities by the sea.
Les Adrets de l'Estérel is a small town located at the extreme southeastern Var. Bordering the Maritimes Alpes, it is composed of large green forests. The town overlooks the bay of Cannes and has an exceptional view on the Lérins Islands and the Corniche de l'Estérel.
Puget sur Argens is a small village located in the middle of many wineries. Its commercial area, near the village, includes many shopping center. North of the village, the Bois du Defens give rise to several walks.
Welcome to Les Issambres, the district of Roquebrune-sur-Argens located on the coast. True paradise with its 8 km of beaches and creeks, this family seaside resort, already frequented at the time by the Romans, is located between the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and Fréjus-Saint Raphaël.
Frejus, located halfway between Cannes and Saint-Tropez, is at the heart of the Côte d'Azur. Based on a sandstone buttress of the Esterel massif, the town dominates the valleys of Argens and Reyran. Frejus has the appearance of a small Provencal town whose new districts extend to the sea.
65km from Nice Côte d'Azur International Airport, Saint-Raphaël is located between Cannes and Saint-Tropez. This seaside resort on the Mediterranean coast is at the bottom of the great Esterel mountains. Saint Raphael, whose city center is by the sea, is divided into different neighborhoods that have all their characteristics and their personalities.
