THE GULF OF SAINT-TROPEZ
A NATURAL HAVEN BETWEEN THE LAND AND THE SEA
From Ramatuelle to Sainte-Maxime via Grimaud, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, considered the jewel of the southern French coastline, is a concentration of picturesque, lively and festive villages, where nature is still omnipresent.
Here, the Var department reveals its beauty, from the fine sandy beaches to the lush greenery of the sumptuous Maures mountains, from the coastal path to the richness of its landscapes and characteristic vegetation of chestnut, cork oak and umbrella pines.
Each village has its own enchanting charm, ochre and pinkish houses, mazes of narrow streets dating from the 17th century, where yu can spend hours strolling and soaking up the gentle atmosphere.
Endless beaches
From La Croix-Valmer to Sainte-Maxime, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez has a rare succession of fine sandy beaches with azure-blue waters: plage du Débarquement, plage des Salins, plage des Canoubiers, plage de Pampelonne, plage de la Croisette, plage de la Madrague, plages de la Nartelle and de la Garonnette, and plage des Issamblres, to name but a few. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
All along the coast are small, secret coves like little wild paradises, against the backdrop of the Maures mountains.
MYTHICAL SAINT-TROPEZ
In the sunshine, this is one of the most beautiful gulfs in the world. Saint-Tropez is born of the sea and sparkles with infinite softness, overlooking the azure blue sea. It is the story of a little French fishing port, become a mythical mecca known to the whole world. It is the stuff of legend.
With its pine forests, sandy beaches, yellow bell tower and ochre pink facades reflected in the deep blue of the harbour, the Provençal charm of its authentic streets, the lazy rhythm of life on the terraces, and the glamour of the stars. Saint-Tropez is a must for unrivalled style à la française.
Still today, Saint-Tropez continues to fascinate and seduce. From celebrities to the sophisticated international jet-set, from lovers of the sea to seekers of tradition, art and inspiration, everyone wants to live the Saint-Tropez dream.
PICTURESQUE PATHS AND VILLAGES
Discover nature in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez on foot along the many footpaths that run along the coast, past headlands, and sometimes climbing to the top to offer peaceful and grandiose panoramas.
In this tranquil natural setting, discover the many picturesque villages of this ancient kingdom, steeped in more than a thousand years of history – Gallo-Roman, Saracen, Genoese and finally French.
Planted on a hill, the village of Ramatuelle, encircled by greenery and vineyards, with its pink ochre houses, stands guard at the entrance to the Gulf.
Gassin is listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Its narrow streets bear witness to a rich past, with architectural heritage and medieval remains. Just like Grimaud, where a contemporary lakeside town extends the medieval village to connect the land with the sea.
Inland, the village of La Garde-Freinet offers visitors the charm of pastel-coloured houses and stone fountains, dominated by the remains of the medieval fort.
Opposite Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime is a more family-friendly, less glamorous seaside resort. The pedestrianized old town is well worth a visit, with lively narrow streets, fountains, squares and Belle Epoque villas, not to mention the casino and famous croisette (seafront). Nestling at the foot of wooded hills, it boasts ten kilometres of beaches with crystal-blue waters.
A DYNAMIC ECONOMY
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez covers an area of 430 km2. Its 12 communes welcome a year-round population of 58,500 inhabitants and 1.6 million tourists.
Home to some 5,500 businesses, the region not only benefits from its natural assets, but also anchors its reputation in the agricultural, tourism and economic sectors.
It is the Var department’s third-largest economic hub, with the third-highest concentration of executives in France. The département is increasingly popular to residents who want to settle in the region and enjoy its climate and relaxed lifestyle.
- Cavalaire-sur-Mer
- Cogolin
- Gassin
- Grimaud
- La Croix Valmer
- La Garde-Freinet
- La Mole
- Le Plan-de-la-Tour
- Ramatuelle
- Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer
- Saint-Tropez
- Sainte-Maxime