Regarded as the lighthouse mountain (Faro in Provençal) by the locals, the white limestone Mont Faron is all of 584 m high and overlooks the most beautiful roadstead in Europe. Although not the highest peak in the area, it is nonetheless the most famous out of the Coudon, Caume, Baou des quatre Oures, Gros Cerveau.
Toulon and its roadstead, the coast from the Iles d'Or to La Ciotat, as well as the Mediterranean Sea extend at the foot of this mount as far as the eye can see.
Since the 16th century, Toulon roadstead has been surrounded by a defence system designed to protect approaches to it, initially by the sea and then by land as the offensive artillery extended its range. Nine forts located on the Mont Faron watch over the roadstead: the Fort St Antoine, the Tour de l'Ubac, the Tour Beaumont, the Sanctuaire (former explosives magazine), the Retranchement de Leydet, the Caserne du Centre, the Fort de la Croix - Faron, the Impluvium and Fort Faron.
Tour Beaumont was built in 1845 to defend and watch over the roadstead. It has now been converted into a Memorial Museum of the Landing of the Allies in August 1944.
This unique and preserved site is a true haven of peace providing an ideal setting for numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, rambling and mountain biking, along two trails laid out for children and adults, as well as climbing for any sportsmen. Mountain bikes can be taken up by cable-car. Parking spaces, picnic areas and playgrounds are also on hand.
Within ten minutes, the red cabins will enable you to reach the top of Mont Faron safely. As soon as you are 584 metres high, you will enjoy an open outlook over over Toulon and the most beautiful harbour in Europe.
You vill discover wonderful views as well as the whole expanse of the coast: from Bandol to the islands of Hyeres while going trough then peninsula og Giens and, at the north, the numerous Toulon mounts.
Under the Alep pine trees, you will be able ti use the picnics tables along the discovery paths, before having a siesta to the sound of cicadas.
On the place, you can also visit the Memorial in the Beaumont Fort, which is a museum to pay tribute tot the historical Provence landings. Tel : (+33) 4 94 88 08 09. While walking or cycling, you will discover other forts which are being restored or which are occupied by the Franch Navy.
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