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The coastline and coastal path
The coastal path in 5 steps
How about setting off on a bike ride in Grimaud? On the coastal path (or the V65 cycle route), cycle around the Gulf of Saint-Tropez with the magical scenery of the French Riviera accompanying you on your way.
From the golden beaches in Sainte-Maxime to the picturesque little streets of Saint-Tropez and the ‘Little Venice of Provence’, Port Grimaud, every step is an invitation to make even more new discoveries!
Are you ready for a Provençal getaway? Check out our ideas for exploring the coastal path!
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Step 1: head to Port Grimaud
In Port Grimaud, time seems to stand still in a scene that resembles a postcard of Provence! As you explore this area, you’ll be wandering past the pastel-coloured houses, each one with its own little dock for a boat.
You’ll enjoy admiring the narrow streets full of flowers in Port Grimaud. Take the time to stop off at one of the charming cafés on the water’s edge, where the relaxing atmosphere is an invitation to sip a cup of coffee as you admire the reflection of the sun on the canals.
In Port Grimaud, the Mediterranean art of living blends perfectly with the easy-going lifestyle on the water’s edge. Come and see it for yourselves!
Step 2: Do-you do-you, Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is the ultimate symbol for a relaxing break on the French Riviera, and is a must-see along this route.
This little fishing port has become a much sought-after destination for the international rich and famous. Come and discover the narrow, cobbled streets, lively cafés and little boutiques there. Go for a stroll along the port and admire the stunning boats, then walk up to the citadel for a panoramic view of the Mediterranean.
Saint-Tropez, where glitz & glamour blends in perfectly with the authenticity of Provence, is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Distance Port Grimaud / Saint-Tropez: 12 kilometres
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Step 3: A getaway to Ramatuelle
Perched up on the top of a hill, Ramatuelle is an authentic and elegant destination. This little medieval village is an ode to tranquillity. Come and explore the cobbled streets and walk up to the view across the famous Pampelonne bay.
Take the time to wander around the maze of narrow streets and come across pretty little squares lined with cafés and art galleries. Can you already picture yourself there? The peaceful atmosphere of Ramatuelle will gradually wash over you.
You can expect a timeless getaway in Ramatuelle, a destination that is ideal for those looking for some peace and quiet and natural beauty on the Mediterranean coast, with Provençal markets throughout the year and festivals in the summer.
Distance Saint-Tropez / Ramatuelle: 15 kilometres
And after all that effort, it’s time for a treat!
The beaches in Ramatuelle are fantastic little gems on the Mediterranean, providing spectacular scenery along the coastal path. If your legs are in need of a break, how about stopping off here to laze about for a while?
Pampelonne bay is well-known across the globe and people come here for the fine sand and turquoise waters. With restaurants and renowned beach clubs lining the seafront, this is the ultimate example of the glamour and elegance of the French Riviera. Escalet beach is wilder, more unspoilt with its peaceful coves and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and diving.
So, which one will you go for? We’ll let you make your mind up!
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Step 4: Make your way to La Croix-Valmer
La Croix-Valmer, where the sweet scent of the Mediterranean blends into the peaceful atmosphere of a preserved village.
This beautiful place is set between the azure blue sea and lush-green vineyards, with inviting, idyllic beaches and picturesque coastal paths.
Come and wander around the historic town centre with colourful façades of traditional houses and shaded café terraces. Why not stop off here to taste some local specialities? The experience is even better at sunset from the viewpoints overlooking Cavalaire bay!
Distance Ramatuelle / La Croix-Valmer: 9 kilometres
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Step 5: In the footsteps of the Count of Monte Cristo
For the last section of the coastal path, we recommend ending your exploration on a cinema theme. That’s right, Giens peninsula, a natural treasure near Hyères (Var) is where the 2024 film, the Count of Monte Cristo, was filmed, starring Pierre Niney.
While out exploring, head to this spectacular place with wild coves and staggering cliffs. All the way along the path, the views of the Mediterranean are stunning. Make sure you also take a look at the peninsula’s unspoilt natural environment, with some unique bird species to admire.
Distance La Croix-Valmer / Giens peninsula: 25 kilometres
Walks and bike rides
A getaway to the seaside
If you’re exploring the area near the seaside, you’re bound to come across the coastal path, either between Saint-Tropez and Port Grimaud or between Sainte-Maxime and Port Grimaud.
It used to be known as the Custom Officers’ Path, since originally, customs officers would wander along these paths, keeping an eye on the coastline.
Today this path provides access to well-hidden bathing spots, unique views and superb villas and hotels along the entire Var coastline.
Follow this path on foot or by bicycle using the cycle path and take time out to laze on the beaches and admire the views.
Grimaud’s beaches
Discover Grimaud’s beaches along the way, nestled at the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, with some breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Of them, Cigales beach is particularly stunning, with its private little port and iconic lighthouse, for a guaranteed change of scenery.
Port Grimaud beach is popular for its great location in the famous lacustrian town, and its range of water-based activities such as sailing, jet skiing and parasailing.
Whether you’re in search of a relaxing or adventurous experience, Grimaud’s beaches have what you’re looking for, in an unspoilt and magical natural setting.
Cycling along the coast
Explore Grimaud by bike and take in the sheer diversity of scenery, between the Mediterranean coast and the countryside of Provence.
Venture along the coastal cycle path (V65), a safe and marked-out route between Sainte-Maxime and Saint-Tropez, via Grimaud and Cogolin, for a unique experience alongside the sunny beaches.
This greenway route is lined with umbrella pines and hidden little coves, allowing you to make the most of the charms of the Var coastline while avoiding the dense traffic. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or just looking to go at a leisurely pace, this route guarantees an unforgettable experience in Mediterranean Provence.
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Good to know
The coastal path is in the south of France, in the department of Var and part of it runs along the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
The coastal path around Saint-Tropez is a stunning route along the Mediterranean coast, and there are several key places to stop by along the way. Here’s a typical itinerary for the coastal path:
- Port Grimaud: The beautiful lacustrian town created by François Spoerry resembles a typical postcard of Provence.
- Saint-Tropez: A very popular departure point, famous for its lively port, picturesque old town and nearby beaches such as Graniers beach and Ponche beach.
- Cap Saint-Pierre: East of Saint-Tropez, you can admire the panoramic views of Saint-Tropez bay and the nearby islands from this headland.
- Pampelonne beach: This is one of the region’s most famous beaches, popular for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Cap Camarat: South-east of Pampelonne, this headland offers spectacular panoramic views of the Mediterranean and you’ll also find Cap Camarat lighthouse there.
- Cap Taillat: This rocky headland is well-known for its wild, unspoilt beauty and is an ideal place for a walk and to look out for marine birds.
- Gigaro and La Croix-Valmer: There are several wild beaches in this area such as Gigaro beach, and some coastal footpaths through vineyards and across lush-green hills.
- Cap Lardier: This is the last headland, with some impressive panoramic views and coastal paths for hikers and nature lovers.
Between Port Grimaud and La Croix-Valmer, enjoy the fine sandy beaches and just relax and unwind in Provence:
- Port Grimaud beach: This beach in Port Grimaud offers a magnificent view of Saint-Tropez, a stone’s throw from the canals and colourful houses in this lacustrian town.
- Guerrevieille beach: East of Port Grimaud, this beach is well-known for its fine sand and clear waters, perfect for bathing.
- Cigales beach: This family-friendly beach near Sainte-Maxime is popular for its casual atmosphere and unspoilt natural setting.
- La Nartelle beach: This beach in Sainte-Maxime is a vast stretch of sand with a wide range of activities for visitors.
- Pampelonne beach: One of the most famous beaches in the region, in Ramatuelle. Well-known for its crystal-clear waters and prestigious beach establishments.
- Escalet beach: This wilder, unspoilt beach near Cap Taillat in Ramatuelle is surrounded by rocky hills and is a peaceful place particularly appreciated by nature lovers.
- Gigaro beach: This beach in La Croix-Valmer is popular for its golden sand and shallow waters, ideal for families with children.
