In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

• Saint-Tropez 
• Cavalaire-sur-Mer 
• Gassin 
• Ramatuelle 
• Cogolin 
• Grimaud 

• Sainte-Maxime 
• La Garde-Freinet  
• Rayol-Canadel sur Mer 
• La Mole 
• Le Plan de la Tour  

A Legendary Village: Prestige, Traditions, and the Art of Living

More than just a destination, Saint-Tropez is an invitation to enjoy a unique experience, no matter the season. Its heritage spans several centuries of history: overlooking the village and the gulf, the Citadel offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views on the French Riviera and is home to the maritime museum, while the La Ponche neighborhood, once the heart of the fishing community reveals its colorful facades and authentic atmosphere, and the famous bell tower accompanies strolls to the lively squares. Saint-Tropez is also a land of art and creativity: the Musée de l’Annonciade, housed in a former chapel, showcases the light of Saint-Tropez that inspired Signac, Bonnard, and Matisse, and culture is alive in the galleries and artistic events that punctuate village life.

A legendary port and exceptional events

Behind its international prestige, Saint-Tropez retains a deeply Provençal identity: on the Place des Lices, the market and games of pétanque exemplify a way of life where simplicity and elegance go hand in hand, from sampling a Tarte Tropézienne to dining at exceptional restaurants. The true beating heart of the village, the harbor symbolizes the union of the sea, elegance, and freedom, from traditional “pointus” to international yachts. Every year, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez brings together the world’s most beautiful sailboats, along with a rich program of festivals, the braderie, Christmas celebrations, and “Les Chefs fêtent les producteurs,” which celebrates the village’s many facets year-round.

The Sea as a Playground

With nearly 4 kilometers of beaches and a sheltered bay, Cavalaire-sur-Mer is the perfect place to enjoy the coast. As a certified water sports destination, it offers a wide range of activities (sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, and electric foiling), and its seabed, rich in shipwrecks, makes it a prime spot for divers. From the harbor, visitors set out to explore the Îles d’Or, the wild calanques, and the preserved areas managed by the Conservatoire du littoral. Beyond the coastline, the Fenouillet Trail offers magnificent hikes punctuated by panoramic views of the sea and the Maures Mountains, while the Maison Foncin, nicknamed the “Château du Soleil,” invites visitors to discover the area’s history and the connections between nature and knowledge.

A resort that’s bustling all year round

Cavalaire-sur-Mer is more than just a summer destination: its lively downtown, the Promenade de la Mer, its shops, outdoor cafes, and casino all contribute to a welcoming atmosphere year-round. A rich calendar of events punctuates the seasons: the Mimosa Parade, summer night markets, culinary events, shows, concerts, and Christmas festivities, inviting both residents and visitors to share warm, memorable moments. With its azure sea, unspoiled nature, and everyday pleasures, Cavalaire-sur-Mer reaffirms its identity as an accessible and welcoming destination, where everyone can tailor their stay to their own preferences.

Heritage and Lifestyle

Perched on a promontory overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Gassin, ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, offers a unique experience. Strolling through its flower-lined alleyways is like stepping back in time: the fortified church, the Porte des Sarrazins, the Place deï Barri, and the Androuno (one of the narrowest streets in the world) bear witness to a rich heritage and a well-preserved village identity. But Gassin is also a vibrant village: fine dining, markets, and festive events, such as the “Romantic Night” or the “Ronde des Crèches”, mark the changing seasons, while polo tournaments and international show jumping competitions contribute to its appeal year-round.

Nature, vignobles et loisirs

Surrounded by unspoiled Mediterranean landscapes, Gassin is a prime destination for slow tourism, wine tourism, and outdoor activities. Its iconic vineyards showcase the excellence of the peninsula’s wine-growing region and invite visitors to discover AOP Côtes de Provence wines in an exceptional setting. Whether on foot, by bike, or along the trails, visitors can explore the region’s bountiful natural beauty, from rolling hills and pine forests to sweeping views of the sea, all complemented by the golf course, the Haras de Gassin, and equestrian activities. With its rich heritage, beautiful landscape, and exceptional views, Gassin embodies an elegant and unspoiled Provence, nestled in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

A charming village nestled in the hills

Perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, Ramatuelle reveals its timeless charm through picturesque narrow streets lined with colorful facades, crowned by an iconic bell tower and orange-roofed houses. Its slogan, “A Village to Love,” reflects the deep affection it inspires, as evidenced by the charming “Rue des Amoureux” (Lovers’ Street). Renowned for its longstanding commitment to the environment, the village has successfully preserved its identity and landscapes, making it a top destination for travelers seeking authenticity and sustainable experiences.

Unspoiled Nature

Ramatuelle captivates visitors with its stunning coastline: the famous natural beach of Pampelonne, the wild coves, and the majestic Cap Taillat offer iconic Mediterranean landscapes, while the Paillas windmill and the Camarat lighthouse showcase the diversity of its heritage, spanning both land and sea. Inland, vineyards have shaped the landscape for generations: wineries and time-honored traditions are integral to the region’s identity and invite visitors to immerse themselves in unspoiled countryside.

A Must-See Cultural Destination

Ramatuelle is also a hub of artistic creativity: throughout the year, festivals, theater performances, and concerts enliven village life and attract a loyal audience. Many celebrities, including Gérard Philipe, Juliette Gréco, Johnny Hallyday, France Gall, and Michel Berger, have chosen Ramatuelle for its exceptional setting, thereby contributing to its cultural influence.

Provence: A Land of Craftsmanship

Strolling through the narrow streets of Cogolin means discovering a vibrant Provençal village, shaped by its history and identity. The colorful facades, the shaded squares, the church, and the Clock Tower, the town’s emblem, bear witness to a heritage that unfolds as you wander through the streets.

Cogolin is best known for its arts and crafts, which have earned it a reputation far beyond the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The artisanal production of rugs, pipes, and reed reeds made from Provençal reeds preserves rare skills that have been passionately passed down through several generations. Through workshops, guided tours, and encounters with artisans, visitors discover a local identity deeply rooted in its history.

The markets, the Bravades de la Saint-Maur, the European Heritage Days, and the Christmas festivities set the pace of village life and reinforce the friendly atmosphere that makes Cogolin a lively town year-round.

Between the Maures Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea

Cogolin enjoys a privileged location with its hills, vineyards, and coastline. The trails of the Maures Mountains are perfect for hiking and offer magnificent panoramic views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, while the wineries showcase the richness of the Provençal terroir.

Just a few minutes from the historic center, the Marines de Cogolin reveal another side of the town. This seaside neighborhood, centered around a marina, offers the perfect setting to enjoy the beaches, restaurants, and numerous water sports. Boat trips, boat rentals, stand-up paddleboarding, scuba diving, jet skiing, and excursions to Saint-Tropez allow visitors to explore the gulf from the Mediterranean.

This dual identity, as both a Provençal village and a coastal town, makes Cogolin a unique destination where everyone can tailor their stay to their own preferences.

A Provençal village with a rich heritage

Dominated by the ruins of its 11th-century feudal castle, Grimaud is one of the most charming villages in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez (Part of the “Most Beautiful Detours in France” collection). Its shaded alleyways, stone houses adorned with bougainvillea, and small squares with fountains invite visitors to take a leisurely stroll. The town’s heritage unfolds as you stroll through its streets: the Church of Saint-Michel, the Chapels of the Penitents and Saint-Roch, the mill, a symbol of its agricultural past, and the Pont des Fées, the remains of an ancient aqueduct nestled in the countryside. Throughout the year, markets, traditional festivals, and cultural events (such as the Grimaldines or Truffe en Fête) bring traditions to life in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Combining the charm of Provence with the elegance of the French Riviera, Sainte-Maxime is a seaside destination where nature, heritage, and the art of living come together year-round. Bordering the Mediterranean Sea, the town captivates visitors with its beaches, its charming historic center, and its authentic, family-friendly, and welcoming atmosphere. Much more than just a beach resort, it’s vibrant in every season: a lively town center, shops open year-round, artisans, an 18-hole golf course, sports and cultural activities, and a rich calendar of events (Corso du Mimosa, Rallye du Var, Rêves Auto, Bike Festival, Fest’Italia, and the Patron Saint’s Festival) set the pace of local life and offer just as many opportunities to discover the city in a new light.

As you wander through the narrow streets of the historic center, along the Promenade Simon-Lorière, past the Tour Carrée, or through the natural sites of Les Sardinaux and Le Deffend, Sainte-Maxime reveals a unique identity, blending Provençal traditions with the gentle charm of the Mediterranean. The legacy of Léon Gaumont, the Provençal markets, and the flavors of the region all contribute fully to this experience. The city also offers a comprehensive range of tourist attractions: quality accommodations, renowned cuisine, water sports, nature walks, and family-friendly activities. Its commitment to more sustainable tourism helps preserve the richness of its environment, ensuring a welcoming stay on a pristine coastline, whether for a weekend getaway or a full vacation.

A village with character

With its cobblestone alleys, stone houses, and shaded squares, La Garde-Freinet reveals the history of a village deeply attached to its identity. Its heritage bears witness to several centuries of history, from the ruins of Fort Freinet, an ancient fortified site overlooking the Maures Mountains, to the chapels, old mills, and the Freinet Heritage Conservatory, which celebrates the region’s traditional crafts and collective memory.

The town is also known for its cultural and artistic life. Painters, sculptors, musicians, and artists find a unique source of inspiration here, while Maxime Codou’s famous giant Provençal nativity scene carries on a popular tradition that attracts many visitors each year.

Traditional festivals, such as the Bravade de Saint-Clément, and cultural events held throughout the year help keep the spirit of the village alive.

A destination where the local character truly comes to life

La Garde-Freinet is one of the main gateways to the Maures Mountains: its vast forests of cork oaks, chestnut trees, and pines make it an ideal destination for hiking, biking, and outdoor tourism. Trails like the Roches Blanches offer spectacular panoramic views of the Provençal hills and, on a clear day, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Cork, chestnuts, and forest products tell the story of the region and its traditions passed down from generation to generation: wineries, Provençal specialties, and local producers make this region a place that invites sharing, celebrated each fall at the Chestnut Festival. La Garde-Freinet embodies an authentic and serene Provence, ideal for recharging your batteries and exploring the Maures Mountains.

Nature and Heritage

In the heart of the Maures Mountains, La Mole reveals an authentic Provence where valleys, forests, rivers, and vineyards create a landscape of great diversity, just a few kilometers from the coastline of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. A constant invitation to explore: the massif’s trails lead, among other places, to the Verne Dam, a vast reservoir nestled in lush greenery, and then to the majestic Chartreuse de la Verne, a monastery founded in the 12th century, designated a Historic Monument, and still home to a monastic community, a unique place blending heritage, spirituality, and nature. Thanks to its prime location, the town is also an ideal starting point for hikes, bike tours, and scenic drives to neighboring villages.

The Village and Its Identity

The village of La Mole retains the understated charm of Provençal towns: its narrow streets, church, Sainte-Madeleine Chapel, and traditional houses bear witness to a history intertwined with the valley and its agricultural heritage. Sunday markets, local producers, wineries, and traditional festivals, such as the Feast of Saint Madeleine, foster a friendly atmosphere throughout the year. The town is also home to an airport committed to environmental sustainability (Aérobio certification), illustrating its dedication to balancing accessibility with respect for nature.

In the heart of the Maures Mountains, just a few kilometers from the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Le Plan-de-la-Tour reveals a quiet, unspoiled side of Provence, where nature, traditions, and the good life come together every day. Surrounded by vineyards, oak forests, and pine groves, this intimate village charms visitors with its warm atmosphere and authenticity, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Cobbled streets, traditional houses, fountains, and small squares tell the story of a village where human connection plays an essential role. The weekly market, local shops, and traditional festivals (Corso de la Bruyère, Foire aux Plants, Fête de l’Âne, and Fête du Vin) set the pace of local life and allow visitors to experience the village’s warm, welcoming spirit. Another distinctive feature is its 25 hamlets scattered throughout the hills: each one is a small village to discover on walks, bearing witness to a rural way of life that is still very much alive.

A favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the town offers numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, thanks in part to its FFC VTT certification. Oak and pine trees, along with landscapes typical of the Maures Mountains, line the trails all the way to the panoramic views from the summit of San Peïre. Finally, winemaking plays an important role in the local identity: the AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards invite visitors to discover the flavors of an authentic terroir.