Nestled in the heart of the Parc naturel départemental du Plan, the Maison départementale de la nature du Plan offers a unique opportunity for observation and discovery of the ecological richness of the Var region. The building, constructed on pilings 3.5 meters above the ground, overlooks 135 hectares of forests, meadows, and wetlands, providing public access to the biodiversity of the department’s 245 sensitive natural areas. Open year-round, admission is free, and the center offers a diverse cultural and scientific program accessible to all.
Currently, the Maison is hosting “Carbon Catchers,” an exhibition by artist Thierry Cohen, running until March 29th. The exhibit features 21 large-format photographs accompanied by an original sound creation, prompting reflection on forest preservation, light pollution, and climate change. A continuous screening of the film “Villes éteintes” (Extinguished Cities) complements the immersive experience, blending visual poetry with ecological awareness. Guided tours are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., by reservation, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the artwork and its environmental message.
Beyond the visual arts, the Maison de la nature offers a varied cultural program. On February 20th at 7 p.m., the group Harpyotime and the Cool Cats will perform, revisiting the blues and swing music of the 1930s to 1960s. Pianist Éric Penso will present a recital, “Les Saisons” (The Seasons), on March 13th, a musical journey through works by Scarlatti, Capriccioso, and Tchaikovsky. The Maison also hosts live performances, including a display by the company La Robe à l’Envers celebrating everyday magic and love on February 14th, and a performance by Duo Instrumento, showcasing forgotten instruments on March 7th.
Interactive workshops are also a key component of the Maison’s offerings, including watercolor naturalistic drawing, explorations of the Moon and Sun, and scientific experiments. These activities, available by reservation, aim to raise awareness and spark curiosity for all ages.
Scientific Conferences and Nature Walks
The Maison also hosts scientific conferences, including a presentation by Guillaume Hébrard, an astrophysicist at the CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research), on exoplanets on March 5th. The Maison organizes nature walks and spontaneous encounters with a naturalist guide, offering opportunities to discover local flora and fauna, observe birds, and gain a better understanding of the Plan’s wetland ecosystems. These walks provide a hands-on experience within the 135-hectare park, which opened to visitors in 2020, according to the Var Department website.
The Parc naturel départemental du Plan was established to protect the area’s unique biodiversity, having been acquired by the Department in 1992 after a decline in agricultural activity. The Department has invested 25 million euros in the park’s development over the past four years, with additional funding of 1,244,723.95 euros from the European Union and 3,264,067 euros from the Agence de l’eau, as detailed on the Var Department website. The park features 16 kilometers of flat trails, accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, as noted on the Camping Artaudois website.
Visitors can also enjoy themed gardens, allotments, a children’s play area, and an open-air fitness area. The Maison départementale de la nature itself, perched on pilings, serves as an observation point and information center for the park and the 245 sensitive natural areas within the Var department, as highlighted by Jagis Pour La Nature.
Reservations and information: 04 83 95 51 60
As the Maison de la nature continues to evolve as a hub for ecological awareness and cultural enrichment, the upcoming months promise a continued series of engaging events and opportunities to connect with the natural world. The park’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and education ensures it remains a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike. Consider exploring the park’s offerings and contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.
