Gassin Golfe Saint TropezIf you like typical Provence villages, like Grimaud, you’re sure to love Gassin and Ramatuelle. Get in your car, put on your seat-belt, and take the road to Gassin, which is classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages (label “Plus beaux villages de France”).
Gassin is a charming village, which has been perched on the edge of the hill since the medieval period. One of its main features : it is home to Rue de l’Androuno, the smallest street in the world : 29 cm wide (the length of a ruler !)
This village has an exceptional view of the Gulf of Saint Tropez, and in particular, the Grimaud Castle. Our favorite spot : from May to mid-October, come and enjoy the remarkable L’Hardy-Denonain botanical gardens. A kind of secret garden with dry-stone wall terraces.
What do you think? Hold on, we’re not finished yet! The village of Ramatuelle is just as exceptional.
Ramatuelle, built in the shape of a snail ! It’s a real pleasure to wander its streets, the Place de l’Ormeau, prisons built under Napoleon III… Just like Grimaud and Gassin, this village has some views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, and even of some snow-capped summits in the Alps.
Ramatuelle Golfe Saint Tropez
Cap Taillat Ramatuelle Golfe Saint TropezFancy a breath of salty air ? Say no more, come to L’Escalet beach! One of the prettiest spots in the Gulf of Saint Tropez, we couldn’t let you miss it. L’Escalet beach is a small beach with a wild and natural look about it, with a view of Cap Taillat.
Don’t forget your mask and snorkel in summer (or your wet-suit if it’s chilly!), as the sea beds are a must-see. You’ll also find Pep’s Spirit here if you fancy some paddle-boarding or kayaking.
Our favorite spot: the coastal walk from L’Escalet beach to the isthmus of Cap Taillat.
Sainte Maxime Golfe Saint TropezA lovely walk in Sainte Maxime with its beach in the town centre : what more could you ask for?
A modern seaside resort, come and discover the town of Sainte Maxime via the “20th century architecture” route, or in the little train.
Sainte-Maxime has activities for you to enjoy all year round : the flower parade in winter, the village’s patron Saint festival in mid-season, and the nocturnal market in summer… Plenty of options!
Our favorite spot: the Pointe des Sardinaux. A little beach where you can explore the sea beds or enjoy a picnic in the shade of the pine trees overlooking the beach.
Take the sea route ! You’ll get a nice breath of fresh air on-board Les Bateaux Verts to get to Saint-Tropez from Sainte-Maxime.
Arrive in Saint Tropez by sea, discover its port and its famous bell tower… What else?
Both mythical and typical, you can’t miss it ! Between the hustle and bustle of the port and the little paved streets in the old village, Saint Tropez will not leave you impervious to its charm.
Stroll along the port to the jetty and the Portalet Tower, explore the typical and romantic alleys of the old village.
Saint Tropez Cote D Azur (1)
Saint Tropez Cote D Azur (2)French film lovers will recognize some filming locations and you can now visit the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma (cinema-history museum in a former police station).
Our favorite spot : the citadel of Saint Tropez, home to the Museum of Maritime History. A modern museum which retraces the history of the inhabitants of St Tropez on the sea. The citadel also has an outstanding view of the bay and the village.
To spend the evening in Saint Tropez or in Sainte Maxime, that is the question ! Both of these towns have a pleasant atmosphere with their ports and restaurants… Just remember : don’t miss the last boat!
Porquerolles Iles D Or Var (2)You don’t need to go to the other side of the world to find a paradise island!
About 60 km from Grimaud, you’ll discover Porquerolles, one of the Golden Islands. Conveniently, you’ll find departures (depending on the season) from Cavalaire, Le Lavandou, La Londe and Giens peninsula (Hyères).
There are different activities on the island : diving, mountain bike hire, jet skiing, boat trips…
Porquerolles is an incredible island, with its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, its exotic walks…What ? You don’t believe us ? See for yourself !
Well ? Stunning, isn’t it ?! In fact, Notre-Dame beach was elected as the most beautiful beach in Europe. That alone is amazing!
And then there’s the rocky inlets of Oustaou de Diou, the walk to the lighthouse and the view… Porquerolles really is worth the detour.
Our favorite spot: take your time and admire the sunset from the “Moulin du Bonheur” : simply breathtaking.
Porquerolles Iles D Or Var (1)
Domaine Du Rayol Golfe Saint TropezIt’s almost time to leave…and you probably don’t want to. So, we suggest a nature-based day in order to wind down as much as possible.
You can’t leave without taking the time to visit the Domaine du Rayol, the Mediterranean gardens. This garden is the complete opposite of gardens known as “jardins à la française” (French formal gardens). Here, there is no geometry, but rather freedom.
Species from all around the world coexist here, adapting to the mild Mediterranean climate. The garden stands alongside the big blue sea, with a beautiful view, at sea level, awaiting you. The garden provides tours, workshops, training courses, family activities and there is even an eco-friendly restaurant with fresh and seasonal produce.
Le Plan de la Tour, la Garde Freinet, la Croix Valmer : in the open air.
Located inland or on the seaside, these towns have some simple walks, as well as some challenging hikes for more experienced hikers. Some of them will take you into the heart of the Massif des Maures mountains, others run along the Mediterranean.
You can consult the list of walks in the Gulf of Saint Tropez to choose your favorite. Our colleagues will be thrilled to give you more information and will help you choose the perfect walk for you. Some can also be done by mountain bike.
Plan De La Tour Golfe Saint Tropez
La Garde Freinet Golfe Saint Tropez
La Croix Valmer Golfe Saint Tropez
La Garde Freinet Golfe Saint Tropez (2)Our favorite spot : “La Croix et le Fort” (The Cross and the Fort) walk in La Garde Freinet.
You’ll need some good shoes to climb up to the Cross. It’s only 3 km, but you’ll need some willpower to reach one of the highest viewpoints in the area.
You’re sure to feel like you’re touching the sky.
