Portrait Gulf Tour

Thomas Vaubourzeix – Cycling as a matter of course

Some paths seem to be written long before the starting line. For Thomas Vaubourzeix, his connection to La Croix Valmer is not simply a geographical attachment: it is deeply rooted in his family history. His great-grandfather was born in Gigaro, anchoring his family’s history in this land between the sea and the hills. These strong, almost foundational roots undoubtedly explain why cycling has never been just one sport among many for him, but a true passion.

It was in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez that the child of the land discovered cycling, starting out at the ACG club in Gassin. His passion quickly turned into ambition. He trained relentlessly, racked up the miles, and soon began to see results. Among them was a symbolic victory that would mark a turning point in his career: the regional cyclo-cross championship title, won in La Croix Valmer, of all places. The circle was already closing, as if by a twist of fate.

A few years later, it was on these familiar roads that Thomas reached a major milestone in his career. One of his first professional races on home soil: the Tour du Haut-Var. Racing “at home,” where it all began, gave the event special significance. The setting was not just a competition venue: it was steeped in memories, emotions, and personal stories.

But beyond his sporting career, Thomas took a clear-eyed view of his region from an early age. One thing was clear: despite its exceptional natural potential : scenic roads, varied terrain, unspoiled landscapes… The region lacked major cycling events. Everything was there, except for an event capable of bringing people together, promoting local cycling, and creating lasting momentum.

This reflection gave rise to a simple, almost obvious idea: to create a new cycling event, designed here, by and for the region. With the La Croix Valmer Cycling Club, this project is taking shape and will become the Tour du Golfe by Maxxis, with its first edition in 2025. It is based on a strong desire: to revive local cycling, bring enthusiasts together, promote the towns and villages along the route, and establish cycling as a true hallmark of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Its ambition goes beyond a sporting event; it is the creation of an event that brings families together through activities dedicated to children, for example.

For Thomas Vaubourzeix, cycling is a legacy, a commitment, and a means of transmission. Transmission of a passion, but also of a vision: that of a sport that respects its environment, rooted in a living territory and capable of bringing people together far beyond the competitors themselves. Today, his career perfectly illustrates this link between roots, sport, and territory. It’s a story that continues to be written with every turn of the pedals on the roads of La Croix Valmer and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez… And it will be written once again on Sunday, January 17, 2026, during the Tour du Golfe by Maxxis 2026.

Christmas Notebooks in La Croix Valmer

Every year, Christmas transforms and lights up La Croix Valmer. But before the sparkling lights, children’s laughter, and bustling squares, there is a whole lot of discreet, often invisible work that goes on behind the scenes: we have chosen to tell you about Christmas in a different way.

Where the magic is secretly prepared

Through a series of exclusive content posted on our social media channels, the La Croix Valmer Tourist Office has decided to lift the curtain and reveal what is never shown: the behind-the-scenes preparations that make everything shine in the spotlight.
At the beginning of December, we invited you to follow our various episodes on Behind the Scenes of Christmas in La Croix Valmer.
We also gave you a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes, revealing the secrets of the holiday season in La Croix Valmer.
An immersion into the heart of Christmas preparations, where the magic really begins, to see what goes on behind every sparkling light, behind every garland hung and every square that comes alive in the heart of winter:

Simply put women and men… precise actions, ideas, and a shared passion: to shine a spotlight on La Croix Valmer.

Behind the scenes also means: the stuff you don’t notice, the secret preparations, the little hands that set everything up, the tests, the adjustments, the artistic choices, the shopkeepers decorating their stores…
It’s magic being created, detail by detail. It’s all these invisible but essential steps that bring to life the magical atmosphere you’ll discover this month in La Croix Valmer. A unique opportunity to experience Christmas from the inside, see how the magic is created and, above all, discover that behind every light there is an intention, an emotion, a desire to make La Croix Valmer shine.

Immerse yourself in the magic of winter

In La Croix Valmer, Christmas is not just a calendar event: it is a collective, human, and living project that is built day after day.
The aim of this series, “Les Coulisses de Noël” (Behind the Scenes at Christmas), was simple: to highlight the work of the teams and share the energy that drives the village as the festive season approaches. Les Coulisses captures this local dynamic: a village that mobilizes, gets involved and experiences Christmas together. Before the applause, there are technical adjustments, rehearsals, setting up the spaces and coordinating the teams. Showing these moments is a reminder that magic also comes from hard work, commitment, and passion. Because Christmas is not just about the end result: it’s about the journey and the preparation that create lasting memories. The La Croix Valmer Tourist Office therefore wanted to humanize the town’s events, create a sense of closeness with the public, and tell the story of Christmas in a different and authentic way.

A true, living, and shared Christmas

In 2025, it all began with lighting. The first installations gradually transformed the streets and the squares. Day and night, the village changed its appearance. The lights came to life, the decorations were put up, and the Christmas atmosphere slowly descended, quietly but precisely.
These installations are much more than just decorations: they convey a desire to create a warm atmosphere that is pleasing to all and faithful to the village’s identity.
Every winter, La Croix Valmer is adorned with lights and entertainment to celebrate the magic of Christmas. These illuminations are an integral part of its winter identity, providing a soothing, friendly setting that is perfect for strolling around during the holiday season.
“Les Coulisses de Noël” highlights this local initiative, reflecting a lively and supportive village where the art of hospitality is cultivated throughout the year.

The technical teams are up dawn.

Installing structures, putting up garlands, testing lighting, securing spaces: every action is precise, thoughtful, and coordinated. We have revealed this suspended moment where technology meets poetry. A moment where expertise becomes emotion and where light gradually transforms the everyday scenery of the village. The technical services imagine, install, and adapt each element to create an immersive universe that is accessible to all and respectful of the natural environment. We have revealed what goes on behind the scenes: assembly, last-minute adjustments, technical checks, and safety measures. It is precision work that allows families and children to enjoy a magical experience with complete peace of mind. As the holidays approach, the village center becomes a true construction site: squares, streets, and public spaces are redesigned to host entertainment, shows, and other highlights. As the heart of the village is transformed, we discover the daily commitment of the technical teams: logistical coordination, installation of decorations, anticipation of crowds, adaptation to weather conditions. Meticulous organization is essential to the smooth running of the festivities.

Retailers, at the heart of the Christmas spirit

In La Croix Valmer, Christmas is a collective adventure. Local shopkeepers, who play a key role in bringing Christmas magic to the town, also share in this adventure: decorated store fronts, a warm welcome, a festive atmosphere, lights lit up late into the evening, smiles exchanged, small everyday gestures… everyone contributes in their own way to bringing the spirit of the holidays to life.

An authentic Christmas, in line with the True Nature of La Croix Valmer

Here, Christmas is not just about decorations: it is something to be experienced, shared, and carefully prepared. “Les Coulisses de Noël” (Behind the Scenes of Christmas) showcases a winter lifestyle characterized by simplicity, conviviality, and local commitment. It is another way to discover the destination, more intimate, more human, and always true to its DNA.

4-star Hotel L’Orangeraie

Hotel L’Orangeraie – The awakening of the “sleeping beauty“

There are places that withstand the test of time with elegance, bearing the mark of history and the promise of renewal. In its green setting overlooking the bay of Cavalaire, L’Orangeraie ranks among the architectural gems of our village and has a rich history. Built in the early 1900s, the L’Orangeraie hotel was a Covent and orphanage run by the Sisters of Nazareth. Nestled among other villas in La Croix Valmer, a stone’s throw from the heart of the village, it was not until the early 2000s that it took the name Hotel L’Orangeraie, embodying today a subtle alliance between the heritage of the past and the new Art Of Hospitality.

One man – one vision

Michel Colomas: a passionate and discreet manager who has been at La Croix Valmer since 2002, he knows the area, its seasons, and its balance. His career has been marked by nearly 20 years of formative experience at Château de Valmer and La Pinède Plage, which has profoundly shaped his vision of the hotel industry: rigor, high standards, and attention to detail. When he took over the management of L’Orangeraie, the challenge was considerable. The hotel had a strong soul and a unique history, but its positioning needed to be rethought. The objective was clear: to “awaken the sleeping beauty” without ever altering its character.

A new inspiration

The recovery is happening on a large scale, with a tight-knit team committed to keeping the Hotel alive all year round. There are four permanent staff members (Emmanuelle, Lin, Tonio, and Michel) and up to 18 staff in total during the summer season. Each period of closure becomes a strategic time. At L’Orangeraie, the motto is that a good summer season is always prepared in advance (repairs, embellishments, reflection on uses, continuous improvement of services, etc.). Nothing is left to chance when it comes to improving the quality of service.

Starting in 2023, a new ambition is taking shape: to earn a fourth star. To achieve this, the establishment is retought its entire offering:

– Creating of a continuous catering service

– Highlighting the majestic building and its surroundings

– Maintening of the landscaped park overlooking the sea

– A Heated swimming pool

– Relooking of the pool area in the shade of palm trees

– Attention to detail, hospitality and comfort

A true work of art, carried out in close collaboration with owner Christian Boucher, based on three essential pillars:

– Human Resources and Employee Retention

– Equipment to improve comfort quality

– Eco-responsible and environmental approach

The result was clear: a 97% success rate in the audit, earning a fourth star that is valid for five years.

A lively hotel – forthcoming and rooted

Today, L’Orangeraie is claiming a new position. Gone is the image of a discreet and confidential establishment: make way for a beautiful Croisian villa, nestled and perched, open to its surroundings and local life.

The hotel is expanding its range of services even further:

– Private events (weddings, seminars, etc.)

– Access to services for external customers (swimming pool, restaurant, bar, etc.)

– Musical evenings and live music under the stars

The clientele, mostly individual travelers, are loyal and international (France, England, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, etc.). During the low season, couples seek peace and authenticity. In the high season, the clientele becomes more family-oriented. The average length of stay is 2 to 3 nights, with a clear desire to increase the time spent on site thanks to a more varied offering.

A future built on continuity

The season runs from early May to mid-October, but the hotel plans, prepares, and projects itself throughout the year. Each year brings its share of small improvements in a spirit of gentle but constant evolution: customer loyalty, social media development, quality of service, regional roots… Everything converges toward a caring, human, and sustainable hotel industry. In a preserved area such as La Croix Valmer, L’Orangeraie is one of those establishments that have managed to reinvent themselves without losing it’s soul. A rebirth – a real challenge, met with elegance, discretion, and authenticity.

L’Orangeraie is no longer just a hotel: it is a story that continues to be written, in tune with the seasons and the authentic character of La Croix Valmer.

Picture ©Bernard GIANI52.

Wellness Special: Spa and Relaxation

The pleasures of relaxation and wellbeing continue even in autumn/winter!

Because in La Croix Valmer, relaxing and pampering yourself is a way of life. And because there is nothing more enjoyable than treating yourself to some me-time, a moment of serenity, a soothing massage or a well-deserved treatment… Whether you are alone, with your partner or with friends, treat yourself to one of these local establishments where wellbeing is a true philosophy of life.

Head to Lily of the Valley’s Shape Club, a true temple of well-being offering a blend of relaxation and sport. The Shape Club combines fitness, nutrition and relaxation in an exceptional setting between the sea and pine forest. A unique experience to restore your balance and energy, facing the Mediterranean. Here, everything is designed to help you recharge your batteries: personalised programs, top-of-the-range equipment, expert coaches and relaxation areas of rare refinement.

RECHARGE MY BATTERIES AT THE SHAPE CLUB

Let us head up to the Domaine de La Croix to discover the HBeauty Saint-Tropez beauty salon. Known for its technological treatments, this modern and innovative beauty centre combines cutting-edge techniques with a personalised approach to reveal your natural beauty. Here, you will be guided to regain your self-confidence.

DISCOVER THE INSTITUTE

Let’s head to the centre of the village, where you’ll find Le Spa 21. This authentic Croisian spa invites you to enjoy total relaxation. With its subdued atmosphere, soft lighting, delicate scents and expert hands, everything comes together to create a moment of complete letting go. Here, you’ll experience a moment of true serenity and calm thanks to the balneotherapy, hammam, treatments and massages.

RELAX AT THE SPA 21

A few streets away, you will find L’Instant Jasmin. An ideal place to relax and adopt a Zen attitude. L’Instant Jasmin lives up to its name: a cocoon of softness where time stands still. Everything here exudes harmony and kindness. Here, you can treat yourself to a moment of pure happiness just for you.

TREAT MYSELF TO THE JASMIN MOMENT

Continue your stroll and you will arrive at the Esthémédic beauty salon. Here you will find exceptional products and Tiffany, with her magic touch, will welcome you with a smile. This salon combines high-end cosmetics with aesthetic expertise. Advanced technologies, sensorial textures and masterful techniques: each treatment is a moment of perfection. Here, you can take care of your skin with passion and precision in a soothing and bright setting.

GETTING BEING SPOILED BY TIFFANY

Here in La Croix Valmer, every wellness break is lived to the rhythm of the waves, true nature and the light of the South…

Featured photo ©Shape Club – Lily of the Valley

Focus on Brunch & Breakfast

The culinary delights continue even in fall/winter in La Croix Valmer!

Because in La Croix Valmer, breakfast and brunch are not just meals: they are moments in life, rituals in their own right, where you take the time to savor and enjoy your meal. Autumn and winter in La Croix Valmer have a special charm, that of a cozy Sunday spent enjoying a delicious meal, a hot drink, and a soothing landscape bathed in beautiful autumn colors. Whether with family, as a couple, or with friends, when the pace slows down and the golden autumn light fills the horizon, it’s the perfect season to slow down, enjoy a different tempo, and treat yourself.

Our gourmet destinations continue to awaken your senses with their friendly atmosphere, authenticity, and local expertise.

Head to Lily of the Valley, where the sea view inspires relaxation and indulgence. Come and enjoy a generous, balanced breakfast combining light cuisine, seasonal produce, refined flavors, and Mediterranean sweetness at Le Vista restaurant. The sun rises and the day begins in a soothing, almost suspended atmosphere: enjoy an elegant moment between sky and sea.

I DISCOVER BREAKFAST

Let’s head closer to the village center at the restaurant Les Saisonniers restaurant, home to the Croisian’s one and only brunch. An unmissable event combining fresh produce, homemade recipes, and a relaxed atmosphere. A truly joyful moment to share! Here, Sunday brunch is celebrated as a simple and joyful occasion.

I DISCOVER BRUNCH

When Sunday rhymes with vacation!

Remontons un peu plus près du centre du village pour découvrir La Boulangerie Les Palmiers, une boulangerie entre tradition et convivialité qui continue ainsi d’enchanter petits et grands. Véritable institution croisienne, La Boulangerie Les Palmiers réveille le village avec le parfum du pain chaud et des croissants dorés. Installez-vous en terrasse, face au marché et au soleil pour profiter d’un petit-déjeuner authentique : pain frais, viennoiseries, jus et café fumant… tout y respire le véritable savoir-faire artisanal.

I DISCOVER PRODUCTS

Let’s take a stroll up the shopping street and stop at Café Valmer. This is a must-visit spot, ideal for soaking up village life from early morning and throughout the year. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, crispy toast, homemade jams, and the warm sunshine on the terrace. Here, you can enjoy the gentle, authentic Croisian way of life.

I DISCOVER BREAKFAST

Let’s continue our stroll to Place de L’Odyssée, where you’ll find L’Amer Bar. Here, you don’t need a sea view to feel good. L’Amer Bar will charm you with its bright and relaxed atmosphere, prolonging the gentle morning.
Enjoy a simple and tasty breakfast in a calm and welcoming setting, all year round on weekdays and weekends.

I DISCOVER AMER BAR RESTAURANT

For those with a sweet tooth, take a few more steps to La Pâtisserie d’Octave. Here you will find sweet treats and soft brioches that are a real treat for the taste buds. All products are made with passion and precision, everything is homemade with a touch of Croisian sunshine. An unmissable sweet treat, served with a drink, for all lovers of artisanal sweets.

I DISCOVER PRODUCTS

Gourmet food is an art form in its own right

Here in La Croix Valmer, every morning is an invitation to enjoy the gentle pleasures of the South, sharing, and rekindled joy.

Featured photo ©Les Saisonniers.

Portrait Sea Day No.2

Meeting with Herlé JOUON – The sea in his DNA

Originally from Brittany, Herlé JOUON grew up surrounded by sea spray and tales of the sea. Descended from fishermen, he has always carried within him the unbreakable bond that unites man and the sea. It was only natural that he turned to photography to tell the stories of this fascinating, ever-changing world. For more than twenty years, he has crisscrossed the oceans and coastlines as part of the Thalassa television program, capturing with his camera the spirit of the professionals who work in this world, as well as the waves and marine animals.

Today, he uses his experience and sensitivity to offer a deeper insight into our relationship with living creatures. In his latest documentary, “Dolphins: Human Perspectives,” Herlé invites us to engage in a true collective introspection: how do we perceive dolphins? How do we share their space? And above all, how can we better coexist with them?

For him, the dolphin is a fascinating animal, but one that must be observed with humility.

We must go beyond fascination. Give animals back their place and keep ours.

His film, shot in the heart of the Pelagos Sanctuary, highlights a fragile territory where beauty coexists with human pressures: tourism, maritime trade, noise pollution… all issues that he calls for caution and respect in addressing.

Through this project, Herlé is not seeking to accuse, but to raise awareness. It is aimed at boaters, fishermen, and lovers of the sea alike.

We need to rethink our relationship with this space. We invite ourselves into a place where there are already people.

It is only natural that La Croix Valmer, a town deeply connected to the sea and committed to protecting its coastline, should host the screening of his film on Sea Day. A moment of sharing and awareness-raising that perfectly echoes the director’s message:

The sea makes many people happy, so we must take care of it.

For Herlé JOUON, images remain a powerful tool for raising awareness. Cinema, he says, “uses staging to make the message more understandable.”

It is with this conviction that he continues his work, combining emotion, education, and beauty to inspire a fresh perspective on the wonders of the sea.

Portrait Sea Day No. 2

Meeting with Herlé JOUON – The sea in his DNA

Originally from Brittany, Herlé JOUON grew up surrounded by sea spray and tales of the sea. Descended from fishermen, he has always carried within him the unbreakable bond that unites man and the sea. It was only natural that he turned to photography to tell the stories of this fascinating, ever-changing world. For more than twenty years, he has criss-crossed the oceans and coastlines as part of the Thalassa television programme, capturing through his camera the soul of the professionals of this universe, the waves and marine animals.

Today, he uses his experience and sensitivity to offer a deeper insight into our relationship with living creatures. In his latest documentary, ‘Dolphins: Human Perspectives’, Herlé invites us to engage in a process of collective introspection: how do we perceive dolphins? How do we share their space? And above all, how can we better coexist with them?

For him, the dolphin is a fascinating animal, but one that must be observed with humility.

We must go beyond fascination. Give animals back their place and keep ours.

Through this project, Herlé is not seeking to accuse, but to raise awareness. It is aimed at boaters, fishermen and sea lovers alike.

We need to rethink our relationship with this space. We invite ourselves into a place where there are already people.

It is only natural that La Croix Valmer, a town deeply connected to the sea and committed to protecting its coastline, should host the screening of his film on Sea Day. A moment of sharing and awareness-raising that perfectly echoes the director’s message:

The sea makes many people happy, so we must take care of it.

For Herlé JOUON, images remain a powerful tool for raising awareness. Cinema, he says, ‘uses staging to make the message more understandable’.

It is with this conviction that he continues his work, combining emotion, education and beauty to bring a fresh perspective to the wonders of the sea.

Portrait Journée de la mer n°1

Rencontre avec Virginie – Une vie entre terre et mer

Depuis plus de vingt ans, Virginie incarne l’âme du Parc national de Port-Cros. Passionnée par la nature, profondément attachée à la Méditerranée et à la transmission, elle œuvre chaque jour à faire découvrir, comprendre et aimer ce patrimoine naturel exceptionnel.

Ce qui me motive, c’est la diversité des publics, les échanges et cette volonté partagée d’agir dans le bon sens.

Guide interprète de formation, Virginie a trouvé au sein du Parc national un équilibre parfait entre éducation, protection et émotion. À travers ses missions, elle gère les points d’accueil du PNPC, coordonne les événements de sensibilisation et accompagne les communes de l’aire d’adhésion, comme La Croix Valmer, dans leurs projets de valorisation et de préservation.

Le 21 octobre prochain, Virginie sera présente à la Journée de la Mer : un grand rendez-vous (gratuit et ouvert à tous) ayant pour objectif de faire découvrir les richesses du milieu marin et sensibiliser petits et grands à la beauté fragile de la Méditerranée.

Sensibiliser c’est d’abord émerveiller. Pas besoin de grands discours scientifiques : il faut donner envie, susciter l’émotion et rendre chacun acteur de la préservation.

Au cœur de cette préservation, une plante : la posidonie, véritable poumon de la Méditerranée, essentielle à l’équilibre des fonds marins et à la protection des plages.

Quand la posidonie est là, c’est que la mer va bien.

Pour elle, La Croix Valmer est une porte d’entrée vers le littoral, un trait d’union entre terre et mer, entre biodiversité et humanité. C’est un territoire qui partage les mêmes valeurs que le Parc national : respect, transmission et préservation.

Ici, tout commence par la mer. Et tout nous ramène à elle.

Meeting with Audrey – Founder of Éditions Bisous

In 2019, Audrey embarked on a career in entrepreneurship. But barely a year later, the Covid-19 health crisis threw her plans into disarray. Rather than give up, she decided to reinvent herself by launching Les Éditions Bisous, a brand of sunny illustrations that pay tribute to the Var region and the South of France.

Why kisses? Because this simple word evokes a universal token of love.

“It’s less intimate than ‘I love you,’ but it conveys a closeness, a gentleness, an affection that is dear to my heart.”

Its goal? To highlight the beauty of our region through clean, bright visuals that evoke memories and emotions.

“I want people to look at my illustrations and say to themselves: ‘I spent my entire childhood here.’”

His creations represent the gentleness of our landscapes, the in which many of us grew up, bubbles of well-being. True Madeleines de Proust to display in your home.

Audrey always works freehand, immersing herself in the places she illustrates. No preparation, no lengthy research: it is her immediate feelings that guide her strokes.

“When I arrive at a place, I photograph it and observe it. It’s the feeling at that moment that counts.”

His drawings never depict people, giving everyone the freedom to project their own memories onto them. However, they all share a common theme: the presence of the sun, that “irregular ball” that embodies the light and warmth of the South.

This year, Audrey is taking a new step forward by exhibiting for the very first time, and what’s more, at the Villa Turquoise in La Croix Valmer until September 28. It’s been an emotionally charged experience, tinged with “impostor syndrome,” but quickly swept away by the enthusiastic feedback from the public at last Saturday’s opening.

“I wondered if I belonged in an exhibition hall. In the end, visitors showed me that my illustrations really touched them.”

His products are accessible to everyone, without numbered editions, and available for purchase on site (until September 28) or online (https://leseditionsbisous.com/).

You can also find them at retail stores such as Printemps in Toulon and Vélizy in Paris, Charlemagne bookstores, and Concepts Stores.

Through her sunny illustrations, Audrey reminds us of something essential:

“Life is beautiful in the South.” XOXO
XOXO

Meeting with Jérémy Fel – Author of the novel Malgré toute ma rage (Despite All My Rage)

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jérémy Fel, a writer known for his dark and intense universe. He will be presenting and signing copies of his latest novel, Malgré toute ma rage (Despite All My Rage), on September 22 in La Croix Valmer, during the Rencontres Littéraires literary festival.

A hard-hitting novel

In this fourth novel, Jérémy Fel takes his readers to South Africa, where four young girls set off on their first vacation together as friends. The seemingly idyllic trip takes a dramatic turn, prompting each of them to question the origin of evil and its effects on the human soul.

Why did you choose South Africa?

“I wanted a country that was both touristy and marked by real violence. I had thought of Mexico, but it seemed implausible to me that parents would let their children go there. South Africa, and particularly Cape Town, seemed more appropriate: a city that is very popular with tourists, but plagued by gangs, crime, rape, and murder.”

As for the title, it is inspired by a punk song from the 1980s:

“My titles often come from pieces of music. Here, it was a perfect fit, since the novel questions all forms of domination and rage.”

A haunting piece of writing

Written in one sitting, Malgré toute ma rage is a novel that the author already had in mind in terms of its structure:

“For the first time, I knew the ending before I even started. The writing came very quickly, almost obsessively.”

But beyond the process, we find the obsessions that run through all his work:

“Man confronted with his dark side, childhood fears, family dysfunction… These are themes that impose themselves on me. I don’t really choose, I just let myself be carried away.”

His style, often described as visceral and sensory, also draws on his relationship with cinema and literature:

“I want the reader to feel what the character is experiencing. I like to create an almost cinematic tension. Among my influences are David Lynch, who moved me deeply, the American author Joyce Carol Oates, and Zola, who wrote in a profoundly sensory way.For me, words create the most beautiful images.”

Meeting with readers

Since his first novel, Les loups à leur porte (2015), Jérémy Fel has always enjoyed meeting his readers:

“It’s strange at first, but it’s a very precious moment. You write alone, the reader reads alone, and suddenly you find yourselves face to face. Something is created, an emotion, an exchange that goes beyond the text.”

Among the most striking reactions, he mentions:

“One reader told me she felt emotions she thought she would never feel again. And 17- and 18-year-olds, who don’t usually like reading, told me they devoured Malgré toute ma rage in two days. That, to me, is priceless.”

What about La Croix Valmer?

The author has not yet been to La Croix Valmer, but is looking forward to this first visit:

“I’ve never been here before. It’s always a pleasure to discover new places, and I’m delighted to be here to share this moment.”

What he hopes the public will take away from his book:

“Even when my characters commit monstrous acts, they remain profoundly human. Monsters don’t really exist: they are human beings who, under certain circumstances, can cross the line into the unthinkable.”

A final word

If he had to sum up Malgré toute ma rage in three words, Jérémy Fel would say:

“Treatise on Perversion: An Exploration of All Forms of Domination (Racial, Family, Social, etc.)”

As for his future projects, the author is already working on a new novel, which will be very different and longer, as well as a television series and a graphic novel.

“I like to reinvent myself and explore other forms of writing.”
Jérémy Fel

Join us on September 22, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., in La Croix Valmer to meet Jérémy Fel and discover his novel Malgré toute ma rage