80 years since the Provence landings

The anniversary of the Provence landings is approaching. Often referred to as the “other landings” of World War II, the 15th of August 1944 played a decisive role in the liberation of France and the reconquest of Europe. Discover the events organised in the region to mark the 80th anniversary of the Provence landings !

A closer look at the history of the forgotten landings

In 1942, Europe was ravaged by World War II. In November of the same year, Provence fell under German occupation. German forces invaded the free zone, strengthening their grip on French territory to counter a potential Allied invasion.

On the night of the 14th to the 15th of August 1944, Allied troops landed on the beaches between Toulon and Saint-Raphaël. At 8am, around 95,000 soldiers launched an assault on 18 beaches. Supported by the Resistance, which had been preparing for the day for weeks, the Allies quickly secured victories. Only a few strongpoints held out. After several days of fighting, on the 28th of August, the Germans surrendered.

Commemorative festivities throughout Provence

From the 15th to the 18th of August, a number of events are being organised to celebrate the anniversary of the landings.

“Provence Landings” exhibition in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer

This free exhibition highlights the role of the African commandos during the landings in Canadel, where 600 men landed as part of the Anvil Dragoon mission.

Night tour of the landing sites in La Londe-les-Maures

Relive history on a unique tour of the landing sites at nightfall. Around the Schneider factory, this tour will plunge you into the preparations for the landings on the night of the 14th to the 15th of August 1944.

15th-18th August weekend event: ceremony and events in Cavalaire-sur-Mer

To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the landings, you can enjoy special events alongside the traditional ceremony such as fireworks, concerts and re-enactments, all accompanied by an air parade.

Stay at Le Bailli de Suffren and discover the history of the region

The Le Bailli de Suffren hotel is located in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, a key location in the region’s history. It was at Canadel beach that part of Operation Dragoon took place, contributing to the liberation of France.

Facing the Mediterranean Sea, Le Bailli de Suffren offers an exceptional stay in a refined atmosphere. Just a few metres from Canadel beach and other key sites of the Provence landings, our hotel boasts an ideal location for a relaxing and cultural holiday.

Enjoy a variety of activities during your stay at Le Bailli de Suffren after your historical tours of Provence.

Memorial sites in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer

The town of Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer is home to three memorials commemorating the Provence landings :

• The national necropolis with the graves of the soldiers killed on the night of the 14th to the 15th of August 1944.
• A stele dedicated to the African commandos and a commemorative plaque for General Georges-Régis Bouvet.
• The Notre-Dame de Rosaire chapel where Albert Thorel of the Second African Commando and his men made contact with the inhabitants of the town.