Fréjus Property Insight

Frejus is the easternmost town of the Var department, in the Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur region. It is 40km to Cannes and Saint-Tropez, between two mountainous massifs of the Maures and Estérel. Two rivers cross the commune: L’Argens in the west and Le Reyran in the east. During the year, it houses over 50,000 inhabitants.

Originally, Frejus was named Forum Julii, meaning Jules’ market (understood Cesar). It was a Roman town created in 49 BC so as to oppose against Marseille. Nowadays, Frejus is an economic, cultural and touristy centre of the east Var. This is also the place having the best number of antique vestiges after Arles. The most beautiful edifices of this kind are the amphitheatre, aqueduct and theatre. Other historical monuments are also worth visiting all over the area: rampart remains, citadels, thermal baths…

Overview

Frejus was the first military harbour of the Roman Mediterranean and a thriving town full of history and emotion. Today, it is a commune of art and culture located in the heart of the French Riviera as well as a famous holiday resort. The area offers an amazing framework and relaxation activities all year long: the woods, parks and seafront may be discovered by cycling, hiking or riding a horse. Water sports may be practised all the time: boating, sailing, diving… everybody will be satisfied and seduced.

A French Riviera touristy and seashore location, Frejus is also the co-founder of the Villes et Métiers d’Art association (literally ‘Arts and Crafts City’ whose aim is to award and promote the cultural wealth and diversity of Arts and Crafts in French towns and cities). The town holds many cultural facilities amongst which three museums: archeological, local history and troupes de marine (French army).

Frejus’ environmental heritage is another asset of the town. It is situated in the heart of protected areas rich in wildlife: Esterel Massif and Villepey pond. The commune was also rewarded by the Blue Flag. Le Safari de l’Esterel is a zoo created in 1971 which houses over 130 wild species native from the five continents.

Fréjus is famous for its peaches and anchovies. Concerning wines, the Cotes de Provence Frejus is a category of the AOC Provence’s wines. Other speciality is the Pavés du Cloître, an almond puff sweet surrounded with toffee.

Fréjus Immobilier and Property Market Trends

In 2009, property prices in Frejus are above the national average of France: €4,164/ sq m against €3,197/ sq m. Prices are quite high in the area but the town has much to offer. 44% of properties there are second homes and over 43% of the dwellings are rented. It represents thus a good location either for a buy-to-let investment or for a sunny retirement. Located in the French Riviera, the area attracts many holidaymakers, especially during summer. If you are looking for a second home, you will be seduced by Frejus’ charms and quality of life.

To get updated info about the property prices in Var, please browse our French Property Market Reports published in the News Section every month.

3 Reasons to Buy a Property in Frejus

• Cultural heritage and festivals: several events take place in Frejus all year long. Religious celebrations like La Bravade (to celebrate François de Paule patron saint), La fête de la Saint Pons, La fête de la Saint Jean and the Saint-Aygulf votive celebration. Other local events are part of the locals’ traditions: for example, the carnival in February, wine fête, grapes festival, the Giant Omelette celebration and santon fair. As regards sports events, Frejus is not outdone: water sports fête, the French Riviera Feria and so on. The area is dynamic and you can’t help being seduced by this charming southern location.

• Economy: Fréjus is an important economic pole of Var and PACA, halfway between Toulon and Grand-Cannes, two main employment zones. Its main resources come from tourism, military activities and public services. Easily accessible either by road or train, it benefits from numerous facilities to develop its economy. Agriculture is also part of the local economic income: market garden produce, fruit-growing, wine-growing, beekeeping, olive-growing and flower-growing. Cork is also produced in Esterel wood.

• Location – Transport links: Frejus is easily reachable by train, coach, plane, road and boat. The railway station is located on the Marseille-Ventimiglia line and serves Toulon and Nice amongst others. Coaches regularly travel all over the region and offer shuttles to Nice airport (46km). The closest airport is however situated in Cannes-Mandelieu, 22km from Frejus. Toulon-Hyeres airport is 61km. All these airports lead to many national and international destinations, amongst which the UK. By boat, you can go to Saint Raphael, Saint Tropez and Cannes.

Property Styles and Architecture in Frejus

• Villas: they are widespread all over the French Riviera and constitute luxury properties with modern decorations and furniture. The front façade is always painted in pink, ochre or beige. They come with a swimming pool, large land, garage, automatic gate, terrace and so on. They are the best type of dwelling if you are looking for a second or a main home.

• Apartments: almost 60% of properties in Frejus are apartments. They are often built in estate housing and hold thus great facilities such as a swimming-pool, automatic gate, park, garage. Such properties are situated close to all amenities i.e. town centre and seafront. They are ideal if you are looking for a let in the area.

Click here for more info about Provence Alps Cote d'Azur Architecture.