Summary
Visitors may arrive in the Provençal city of Fréjus for its abundant sandy beaches or its upscale harbor, which serves as a vibrant hub for summer activities. The city’s military heritage is intriguing, showcasing museums and monuments that reflect a history dating back to the 17th century.
Fréjus also boasts rich ancient history, having originated as the Roman port city of Forum Julii, where remnants of an aqueduct and amphitheater still exist. Notably, one of France’s oldest Christian structures is located in Fréjus, situated within the remarkable Cité Épiscopale, which features the medieval cathedral and cloister.
Let us delve into the top attractions in Fréjus:
1. Fréjus Cathedral
The cathedral is integrated within a complex of medieval structures, some of which trace back to the early days of Christianity in France.
Known as the Cité Épiscopale, this ensemble was fortified and arranged around the Gothic Bishop’s Palace.
The cube-shaped tower topping the cathedral’s apse serves as a robust reminder of these defenses.
The cathedral’s construction primarily took place in the 1200s, built atop a far older church from the 400s.
It features two naves, which were constructed at different periods (with one belonging to a former parish church) and later connected by an arcade.
2. Cloister
Located to the north of the cathedral is the cloister, a serene space for reflection intended for the cathedral’s clergy.
The arches and columns date back to the 1200s, featuring capitals adorned with the Fleur de Lys, emblematic of Charles I of Anjou, and keys representing the Bishops of Fréjus.
Upon inspecting the galleries, one will observe intricately carved and painted images adorning the wooden ceilings.
These artistic elements, from the 1300s, depict mythical creatures, animals, and notable figures from the era.
3. Baptistery
The Cathedral’s Frankish baptistery is intriguing enough to warrant its own mention.
This section of the cathedral dates back to the 400s, rendering it the oldest Christian site in Provence, as well as one of the oldest in France.
The baptistery was concealed during the 1300s and was not rediscovered until 1925; archaeologists have since unveiled the 1,600-year-old marble floor, a small terracotta pool for feet, and a large octagonal pool used for full immersion.
The granite columns that line the interior are of Roman origin, originating from one of Forum Julii’s monuments.
4. Mont Vinaigre
The Esterel Massif is a range of arid, maquis-covered mountains situated between Fréjus and Cannes to the northeast.
Mont Vinaigre, the tallest of this range, exceeds 600 meters in height and can be easily accessed via the DN7 road leading to Cannes.
The 30-minute ascent from the parking area is challenging yet manageable, flanked by juniper, lavender, rosemary, and other wild herbs.
From the summit, one can observe Saint Tropez, Cannes, and the azure Mediterranean; the mountain was also historically a refuge for notorious 18th-century brigands like Gaspard de Besse, often likened to a Provençal Robin Hood.
5. Musée Archéologique
Fréjus has been unearthing fascinating artifacts from the ancient city of Forum Julii since the 1800s.
Many of the most significant pieces are housed in this museum.
These excavations provide captivating insights into the city’s composition and the customs of its inhabitants, such as funerary practices and domestic life.
Visitors can explore an array of displays: statues, including a bust of Hermes, emblematic of Fréjus, a striking mosaic of a panther, household items, pottery, and much more.
6. Fréjus Aqueduct
History enthusiasts can embark on an exploratory journey along the route of the 40-kilometer aqueduct that transported water from the Foux and Siagnole Rivers to the ancient Forum Julii through a series of underground conduits and tall bridges.
Within the city, four tall piers can be admired in the Parc de la Villa Aurélienne.
For those with an avid interest in history, renting a vehicle allows for visits to numerous captivating sites, including a large trench carved from the rock near the aqueduct’s source at Roche-Taillée, a bridge counterpart where it crosses the Gargalon stream, and much more besides.
7. Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Jérusalem
Located just off the DN7 in the hills behind Fréjus is an intriguing piece of 20th-century French art and culture.
The renowned artist, poet, and filmmaker Jean Cocteau was commissioned to design this chapel nestled amidst pine and cork forests.
Following Cocteau’s passing in 1963, with the chapel still incomplete, his adopted son, actor Édouard Dermit, finalized the frescoes and wall mosaics based on Cocteau’s sketches.
The structure was intended to be part of the Tour de Mare neighborhood, envisioned as an artistic community by Nice banker Jean Martenon, who commissioned the chapel.
8. Musée des Troupes de Marine
The Troupes de Marine represents the marine component of the French Army and was established by Cardinal Richelieu in 1622. This museum documents the history of the Troupes de Marine, which is closely linked to French colonial undertakings, making it a valuable resource for those interested in that historical period.
The numerous well-labeled display cases house uniforms, weapons, maps, model ships, and historic posters, all illustrating the technological and cultural evolution of the troops from the 17th century onwards.
The museum’s location is significant, as Fréjus served as one of France’s preeminent bases for its colonial armies, as evidenced by the large monument commemorating the Indochina conflict in the 1940s and 1950s.
9. Amphitheatre
Until recently, the city’s amphitheatre was a picturesque ruin, with significant portions of the seating terraces and arena in decay yet still clearly distinguishable and enjoyable to explore.
Victor Hugo was among those who praised this ancient structure.
The amphitheatre has since undergone restoration, now serving as a venue for public events; the original ancient sandstone has been coated with white concrete to preserve its integrity and prevent further deterioration.
The result may not closely resemble an ancient structure, but it offers an illuminating perspective on what the amphitheatre may have looked like upon completion during Roman times.
10. Malpasset Dam
A few minutes from Fréjus lies the remnants of the Malpasset Dam, constructed in 1952 but tragically failing in 1959 at a cost of 423 lives.
The site remains untouched since that disaster, serving as a memorial.
It is possible to observe where a substantial section of the dam was lost in the flood, with massive fragments of reinforced concrete scattered throughout the valley below.
A visit here is both poignant and educational, providing insight into the forces that can cause such an immense concrete structure to fail, highlighting an extraordinary piece of engineering in decline.
11. Aqualand
After exploring churches and historical architecture, one may seek leisure activities for younger audiences, and this waterpark is an ideal destination.
With a total of 18 slides and pools, there are options designed for the littlest guests, alongside thrilling attractions like the award-winning King Cobra, which caters to a teenage crowd.
Parents can take advantage of various dining options and cafes available at the site, in addition to a spacious, shaded grassy area for picnics and relaxation.
During peak summer days, anticipate heavy traffic, making it advisable to plan ahead if visiting in July or to opt for earlier or later dates in the season.
12. Hông Hiên Tu Pagoda
During the First World War, Senegalese and Vietnamese soldiers were stationed in Fréjus before being deployed on the Western Front.
This Buddhist pagoda stands as an interesting remnant from that era, built by Indochinese soldiers in 1917. Though it fell into disrepair after the war, it was restored by refugees from the Indochina war in the 1950s.
Buddhist festivals occur here throughout the year, and the pagoda holds significant meaning for the Troupes de Marine.
The tranquil gardens on the slopes below showcase statues illustrating the life of Buddha, along with depictions of dragons, horses, and elephants.
13. Beaches
Amidst the rich cultural heritage and captivating sights, it is essential to remember that Fréjus also serves as a summer resort, boasting eight beaches on both sides of the harbor.
Beginning in the west, one finds Plage du Pacha, while to the east, just before Saint-Raphaël, lies Plage des Sablettes.
Families often favor Base Nature François Léotard, a long, shallow stretch of sand made more accessible by its parking facilities and accommodations for elderly and disabled bathers.
It may come as a surprise that the open, mostly undeveloped area behind this beach was once utilized as a military base.
14. Saint-Raphaël
Essentially a neighboring district of Fréjus, this stylish resort is situated where the Massif de l’Esterel descends toward the Mediterranean.
Similar to its neighbor, ample evidence of Roman settlement is present, which can be explored at the town’s archaeological museum, a complementary institution to the one in Fréjus.
This area features much early-19th-century architecture that bestows a dignified aura upon Saint-Raphaël, enhanced by its restaurant terraces and bustling harbor filled with masts.
Visitors can embark on a speedboat tour of the rugged coastline, visiting secluded coves (calanques) and bays that are not accessible by land, or venture to the glamorous beaches of Saint-Tropez.
15. Food and Drink
Fréjus benefits from being situated in a fertile agricultural area while also having direct access to the Mediterranean, thus enjoying the best of both environments.
Local honey and olive oil hold protected designation under the Miel de Provence and AOC Huile d’Olive appellations, making them excellent finds at one of the city’s open-air markets.
In terms of wine, the regional reds and rosés fall under the AOC Côtes de Provence Fréjus and thrive in the rich, volcanic soil of the Esterel.
With 11 wineries and cooperatives in close proximity, there is more than enough to explore over one or two days.
