By its size the bay of Cavalaire is ideal for water activities. 4 km of sandy beaches, coves and rocky shores with their typical forests of umbrella pines await you.

Its 1200-berth marina has all the modern conveniences and it is the first harbour in the Mediterranean equipped to fight pollution to keep the beaches clean and the sea-water crystal clear.

But if you fancy getting away from the coast, try heading inland to the summit of the "Epaule de Malatra" or the "Pradels", at an altitude of 527 metres, and enjoy the glittering views over the bay and heady scents of the eucalyptus, myrtle and arbutus.

The name Cavalaire comes from the Greek colony "Heraclea Cacabaria" which founded a settlement in the bay. It evokes memories of Carthage and Hercules. The story of this young town (which has just celebrated its 70th birthday!) of 5300 inhabitants began in 800 B.C. when the Ligurians occupied the fortress of Montjean.

The Count of Provence, Guillaume I, built a watchtower on Cap Cavalaire, which was subsequently fortified by the Counts of Grimaud. The fortifications were destroyed in 1646. In the 18th century, Cavalaire was a small fishing village attached to the neighbouring village of Gassin until 1929.

On August 15, 1944, the Allied Forces chose the site for the landings of the American army's 3rd infantry division. Cavalaire's main activity is now tourism and the town possesses a 1 200-berth marina, famous throughout the Mediterranean. The remains of the Ligurian fortress, inhabited from 6 to 4 B.C., can still be admired on the heights overlooking Cavalaire Bay.