The Gulf of Saint-Tropez

An exceptional region where Provençal authenticity meets the elegance of the Côte d’Azur, revealing a jewel of timeless beauty. With the Mediterranean on the horizon and the Massif des Maures as its backdrop, this region, comprising 12 villages, combines unspoilt nature, heritage and local character to offer a unique, immersive experience.

Discovering the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: a truly exceptional region

As soon as you arrive, your gaze is drawn to Sainte-Maxime, the true gateway to the gulf. Bright and lively, the town embodies a subtle balance between the Provençal art of living, a vibrant seafront, major events and easy access to Saint-Tropez by sea.

Awarded the “Vignobles & Découvertes” label, the region showcases its AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards, renowned for their iconic rosé wines. Provençal cuisine also takes centre stage, with specialities such as bouillabaisse and tapenade, true symbols of Mediterranean cuisine.

A region committed to preserving its natural and heritage treasures, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez strikes a perfect balance between prestige and local traditions. Each village reveals a unique identity: flower-lined alleyways, picturesque harbours, hilltop villages and exceptional panoramic views.

Finally, the unique light of the Côte d’Azur, immortalised by the painters Signac and Matisse, accompanies your exploration of the region’s 12 villages, offering moments to be savoured to the full all year round:

Saint-Tropez
Cavalaire-sur-Mer
Cogolin
Grimaud
La Croix Valmer
La Garde-Freinet
Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer
La Mole
Le Plan de la Tour
Gassin
Ramatuelle
Sainte-Maxime

Saint-Tropez naturally iconic and authentic

Saint-Tropez is legendary, renowned as the town where history, luxury, Provençal traditions and Mediterranean light come together. Once a simple fishing port, then a haven for artists and a sought-after destination, Saint-Tropez retains its soul despite its international renown, telling a unique story that blends authenticity and glamour.

Saint-Tropez is more than just a destination; it is an invitation to enjoy a unique experience, blending prestige with authenticity. Rediscover this legendary village from a fresh perspective, whatever the season, where timeless charm meets the excellence of a refined way of life.

Whether strolling through its colourful narrow streets, sharing a moment with the locals over a game of pétanque, savouring exceptional cuisine with local flavours, or enjoying the sense of well-being offered by the surrounding countryside, every moment in Saint-Tropez is an enchanting interlude.

Between the sea and local traditions, luxury and simplicity, exceptional events and serenity, Saint-Tropez promises you an unforgettable getaway in an unspoilt setting where every detail reflects the finest craftsmanship.

An iconic heritage and a unique atmosphere

Strolling through Saint-Tropez means discovering a rich heritage: the Citadel, home to the maritime museum, offers a spectacular panorama of the gulf and the surrounding hills. You’ll also come across the famous bell tower and the picturesque façades of La Ponche, a former fishing district that has become a charming place for a stroll.

The Annonciade Museum, housed in a former chapel, traces the history of the Saint-Tropez school of painting and exhibits works by Signac, Bonnard and Matisse. In its narrow streets, Provençal markets (at Place des Lices on Tuesdays and Saturdays) serve as a reminder that Saint-Tropez is much more than just a luxury destination.

A harbour, sailing boats and prestigious events

The port of Saint-Tropez is the heart and soul of the town: yachts, classic sailing boats, elegant masts – it alone epitomises the fusion of the sea and Saint-Tropez elegance. Every year, in early October, the ‘Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez’ event brings together historic and modern sailing boats in an exceptional setting.

Throughout the year, the town offers a wealth of cultural events: the famous Saint-Tropez market, music festivals, art exhibitions, wine fairs, flea markets, Christmas celebrations and events centred around cinema or gastronomy.

From Sainte-Maxime, we recommend taking the Bateaux Verts ferry service; a convenient, fast and eco-friendly way to travel – the journey takes 20 minutes, with ferries running every 20 minutes.

Cavalaire-sur-Mer a haven of happiness in the heart of the Gulf

Nestled amongst wooded hills and fringed by fine sandy beaches, the bay of Cavalaire-sur-Mer enjoys a mild climate all year round, making it a charming holiday resort both out of season and in the height of summer. A certified water sports resort, it combines the sea, nature and local life in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, offering lovely views of the neighbouring islands.

The sea as a playground

With its 4 km of fine sandy beaches, Cavalaire is the perfect place to relax. Beyond sunbathing, the bay is particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts: sailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing or scuba diving at remarkable sites, notably shipwrecks. From the harbour, you can also set off to explore the Îles d’Or or the calanques protected by the Conservatoire du Littoral.

A vibrant local and cultural scene

Cavalaire is not just a seaside resort: its vibrant town centre invites you to take a stroll along the Promenade de la Mer, browse the shops, try your luck at the Casino, and enjoy the outdoor cafés or the entertainment on offer. Throughout the year, the town is steeped in culture with its media library, archaeological centre and a varied programme of events: markets showcasing gastronomy and crafts, theatre, the flower-filled parade, concerts…

Roots and history

Cavalaire’s origins date back to antiquity: the Roman port of Heraclea Caccabaria bears witness to its maritime past, and excavations have revealed the remains of ancient Roman villas. The town, which became independent from Gassin in 1929, has undergone major changes, notably the development of tourism and its seaside resort. It was also affected by the events of the Second World War: 15 August 1944 marks the Provence Landings, an event commemorated every year.

The Maison Foncin, nicknamed the ‘Château du Soleil’, is an iconic residence situated on the Corniche des Maures, at the heart of a protected natural site. Built by the geographer Pierre Foncin, it was bequeathed in 1977 to the Conservatoire du littoral to ensure the long-term preservation of its 15 hectares of seaside land.

During guided tours, visitors learn about the history of the site, the local heritage and the area’s natural wealth, notably through an exhibition dedicated to cartography.

Nearby, the Maison de la Nature, which opened in 2024, continues this approach to raising environmental awareness with exhibitions, workshops, walks and a cultural programme, as well as a café showcasing local produce.

Cogolin rooted in Provençal traditions

Cogolin is an authentic Provençal village renowned for its crafts and rich heritage, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the surrounding natural environment. Visitors can take part in guided tours to discover the village’s history and local crafts, including the making of rugs, reeds and pipes, whilst enjoying a variety of water sports at Les Marines de Cogolin.

Cogolin: steeped in Provençal traditions

Cogolin is a charming village in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, nestled in the Maures mountains. Here, Provençal authenticity is evident at every turn, and the relaxed southern way of life is evident on every stroll.

Cogolin is renowned for its picturesque historic centre, where narrow alleyways, colourful façades and shaded squares blend together, reflecting the town’s Provençal spirit. The old town boasts a rich cultural heritage: you can wander past the church and the iconic clock tower.

Local crafts

The town is also famous for its local crafts, notably the production of carpets, as well as pipes and reeds (accessories for wind instruments made from local Provençal reeds), perpetuating traditions that are a source of pride for the locals. The Provençal markets contribute to a typical southern atmosphere.

For nature lovers: between land and sea

It also serves as a gateway to numerous green spaces and hiking trails, allowing visitors to discover the beauty of the Maures Mountains or enjoy the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea, with Les Marines de Cogolin. Les Marines de Cogolin offers a peaceful seaside setting in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, with fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters. This seaside neighbourhood charms visitors with its lively marina, shops and seaside restaurants. Among the water sports on offer are: jet skiing, boat hire (with or without a licence), catamaran trips, scuba diving and boat shuttles to Saint-Tropez.

The town thus combines a high quality of life, economic vitality and cultural richness, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Grimaud A lakeside town and Provençal traditions

Grimaud blends the spirit of Provence with the glamour of the Côte d’Azur. On the one hand, this thousand-year-old village is steeped in history: its castle, the Church of Saint-Michel, and the chapels of the Penitents and Saint-Roch…
The old stone houses, with their façades adorned with bougainvillea, line the shady alleyways and small squares where fountains gurgle. Then, the seaside comes into its own, giving way to its beaches and the lakeside town of Port Grimaud. Here, canals and quays intertwine, and the colourful, Venice-inspired houses are mirrored in the water.

Grimaud Castle: medieval and picturesque

Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Grimaud charms visitors with its picturesque medieval village and its narrow streets brimming with charm.
The village boasts a remarkable architectural heritage, with the 11th-century feudal castle dominating the landscape, along with its ramparts and ancient churches. Not far away, the Grimaud mill, perched on the hill, serves as a reminder of the village’s agricultural heritage. Carefully restored, it is an iconic spot for exploring Provençal rural heritage. The cobbled streets, lined with stone houses and colourful façades, invite you to stroll and discover small craft shops and traditional cafés.

Provençal traditions and celebrations

Grimaud is also renowned for its Provençal traditions and culture. Local markets, festivals and cultural events set the pace of village life and allow visitors to immerse themselves fully in the local atmosphere.
The town is a good base from which to explore the beaches of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and the hiking trails that wind through the surrounding hills, such as the one leading to the pretty Pont des Fées.

Port Grimaud, the lakeside town

One is immediately captivated by the charm of Port Grimaud, the iconic jewel of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Conceived in 1966 by the visionary architect François Spoerry, this unique lakeside town, built on former marshland, is now listed as a 20th-century heritage site and has been awarded the ‘Remarkable Contemporary Architecture’ label.

A true icon of the Côte d’Azur, it embodies a subtle balance between heritage, local character and unspoilt nature.

As you wander along the canals, let yourself be charmed by nearly 2,000 fishermen’s houses with their colourful, distinctive façades, which make Port Grimaud one of the world’s most famous lakeside towns. For a truly immersive experience, explore its 90 hectares aboard an electric boat, the famous “coche d’eau”, or hire a rowing boat to discover this village on the water at your own pace.

From the church’s contemporary stained-glass windows designed by Victor Vasarely to the lively terraces, the weekly market and water sports on the beach, Port Grimaud offers a well-rounded experience combining fine dining, culture and the Mediterranean way of life. It’s also an ideal starting point for travelling to Saint-Tropez thanks to the Les Bateaux Verts ferry service.

Croix-Valmer naturally beautiful

La Croix Valmer is a protected destination, forming part of the Port-Cros National Park. It embodies the very essence of unspoilt nature, far from the crowds of mass tourism.

Beautiful by nature: hidden beaches and a family-friendly atmosphere

La Croix-Valmer is famous for its unspoilt beaches and wild coves, which make this place a haven of tranquillity. From the long Gigaro beach, ideal for families and walks along the water’s edge, to the small, secret coves lined with pine trees at Sylvabelle, each spot offers a different landscape, featuring fine sand, turquoise waters and rocky cliffs. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy the coastal path, which links several beaches all the way to the Cap Lardier and Cap Taillat headlands, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Whether you’re looking to swim, relax or enjoy water sports, the beaches of La Croix-Valmer charm visitors with their family-friendly atmosphere.

A festive, local atmosphere in the village

You’ll probably also enjoy visiting the village of La Croix-Valmer, set a little further inland and surrounded by lush vineyards. With its local shops, cafés, market and festive events, life in La Croix-Valmer is bustling, particularly in summer. The municipal swimming pool, open in spring and during the summer season, is also an ideal place to cool off or get some exercise.

Garde-Freinet a peaceful natural setting

La Garde-Freinet is an authentic Provençal village nestled in the heart of the Maures mountains, surrounded by unspoilt, lush countryside. This charming village, known for its cork oaks and chestnut trees, offers the ideal setting for relaxation and tranquillity. Visitors can enjoy picturesque strolls through its narrow streets and explore its well-preserved heritage, whilst discovering local specialities made from chestnuts. La Garde-Freinet is also famous for its giant Provençal nativity scene and its artists, including painters, sculptors, actors and musicians.

A soothing natural setting

La Garde-Freinet is a hilltop village that charms visitors with its exceptional natural setting. Surrounded by forests of cork oaks, chestnut groves and pine trees, it offers a moment of tranquillity, far from the hustle and bustle of the Var coastline, whilst remaining close to Saint-Tropez and the gulf.
The village retains a remarkable medieval heritage, with its narrow, cobbled streets, stone houses and ancient gateways that tell the story of this strategic location. The church’s bell tower and the remains of the old fortifications at Fort Freinet bear witness to the town’s past.

Hiking and Provençal cuisine

La Garde-Freinet is also an ideal starting point for hikes and outdoor activities, with numerous trails winding through the forest of the Massif des Maures, such as the Roches Blanches trail, offering spectacular panoramic views of the hills and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. The Chestnut Festival is a renowned event held every autumn: featuring tastings of chestnuts, chestnut creams and related dishes, it is a true culinary delight that we highly recommend you attend.

Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer beaches with fine sand and turquoise water

Imagine the Maures mountains plunging into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean; nestled between them, perched on the cliff-top, a village on a human scale and its extraordinary garden. The Route du Mimosa winds its way up the hillside, stretching for several kilometres through a landscape of infinite beauty. You’ve just passed the Foncin house when the Corniche des Maures begins, overlooking the old route of the Provence railway. Below, the succession of wild coves and sandy spits will delight lovers of swimming and water sports.

The monumental schist stone staircase begins at the water’s edge and takes you far higher than the Patec pergola, all the way up to the flagpole – the highest point in the commune and a symbol of regained freedom. Both are listed in the supplementary register of historic monuments, such is the originality of their architecture and the breathtaking views they offer.

The resort’s reputation is closely linked to that of the Jardin des Méditerranées; its Renoir-esque landscapes are among the most beautiful on the Côte d’Azur.
Le Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer is famous for its garden: the Domaine du Rayol. This 20-hectare protected natural area, owned by the Conservatoire du littoral, offers a unique immersion in the heart of unspoilt nature, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Îles d’Or.

A true invitation to travel, this remarkable garden takes visitors on a botanical journey around the world through Mediterranean and subtropical landscapes: from the Canary Islands to South Africa, from Australia to California and as far as Chile. Amidst Mexican cacti, Asian bamboos and giant ferns from New Zealand, visitors discover exceptional biodiversity in a spectacular setting.

A must-visit destination in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, open all year round, the Domaine du Rayol perfectly embodies the fusion of local character, botanical discovery and the art of living, set against a backdrop of unique panoramic views of the Var coastline.

La Môle Exploring the Maures Mountains

La Mole offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills. The village retains a rich and distinctive heritage, with its narrow streets, stone houses and ancient church overlooking the central square. La Mole is also known for its small, carbon-neutral airport (Aérobio-certified), which links the hinterland to the coast, but it remains, above all, a haven of tranquillity.

The area around La Mole invites you to explore the Var countryside, with hiking trails through the hills, vineyards and forests. Local markets and traditional festivals offer the chance to discover local produce and crafts in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

And this oasis in the Maures is the Verne Dam (1991, height: 42 m, length: 235 m). This vast body of water, fed by the Verne – a tributary of the River Môle – supplies fresh water to the towns around the gulf. Whilst swimming and boating are prohibited, the path running along the left bank will lead keen walkers or experienced mountain bikers to the Chartreuse de la Verne, an impressive monastery founded in 1170, listed as a historic monument and superbly restored. The site is open to visitors, but it is home to cloistered nuns who observe the vow of silence.

With its blend of heritage, panoramic views and natural beauty, La Mole is an ideal stopover for those wishing to explore the Var hinterland and enjoy a typically Provençal setting, far from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

The Tower Plan Authenticity just a stone’s throw from the sea

This charming Provençal village, surrounded by vineyards, oak and pine forests, lies nestled in the Massif des Maures. Close to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and the hustle and bustle of the coast, let yourself be captivated by the understated charm of this village. Whatever the season, come and discover its cobbled, flower-lined streets, its 25 secluded hamlets scattered across the hills, and its walks along country lanes surrounded by local flora and fauna.

Authenticity just a stone’s throw from the sea

Nestled in the heart of the Maures mountains, Le Plan de la Tour is a village where every stone tells a story. Set further back from the coast, it offers glimpses of village life on every street corner: a shaded square where locals gather to chat, a café that seems to exist outside the flow of time, or a small fountain hidden behind a stone wall.

Its landscape has a unique feature in the region: 25 hamlets scattered across the rugged hills. Each has its own character and way of life, and it’s a delight to venture out in all seasons in search of these tiny villages!

Le Plan de la Tour is also a prime vantage point for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, with its sunsets and secret paths to explore. Here, time seems to stand still. Strolling through its narrow streets, listening to the song of the cicadas and breathing in the scents of thyme and rosemary, whilst savouring a rosé from the AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards, is a true immersion in the soul of Provence, far removed from tourist clichés.

Gassin charming village

Perched on its headland, the medieval village of Gassin offers a unique experience, combining old-world charm with the relaxed Provençal way of life. Its picturesque narrow streets, well-preserved heritage and exceptional panoramic views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez make it a true haven of authenticity.

A place for both contemplation and socialising, Gassin charms visitors with its way of life: fine dining, local wines, festive and cultural events, and a warm welcome. Thanks to its many tourist facilities – from the ‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’ label to its accommodation and leisure facilities – Gassin stands out as a destination where heritage, nature and modernity come together.

Gassin, awarded the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’ label, a village of charm and character

Perched high above the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Gassin is a hilltop village offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. From its terraces, you can take in the azure blue of the gulf, the glistening beaches and the rolling hills bathed in the Provençal sunshine, all in a single glance.

Strolling through Gassin also means discovering the village’s narrowest alleyway, a curiosity that seems to have stepped out of another era. Barely wide enough to walk through, it invites you to slow down, admire the stone façades, the colourful shutters and the overflowing flower pots, and lose yourself in the village’s atmosphere.
Gassin captivates with its unique Mediterranean charm, where historical heritage blends with lush natural surroundings and exceptional panoramic views.

The southern light transforms the village into a picture-postcard scene: spending a moment strolling through it at the end of the day, visiting the remarkable botanical garden, watching a polo match, or enjoying a meal in one of the restaurants is a real pleasure.

Ramatuelle timeless charm

Perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean, Ramatuelle reveals its timeless charm through its picturesque narrow streets, lined with facades in warm, colourful hues. Its iconic bell tower watches over the village’s orange-tiled roofs, whilst in the distance the sea glistens and the lush green plain stretches all the way to Camarat Lighthouse.

More than just a village, Ramatuelle is an invitation to a gentle way of life and a world of emotion. Its slogan, ‘A village to love’, captures the deep affection it inspires in both its residents and visitors. It is no coincidence that one of its most charming alleyways bears the evocative name ‘rue des Amoureux’ (Lovers’ Street).

Culture at the heart of the village

The village, with its narrow cobbled streets, ochre-coloured houses and small, shaded cafés, seems frozen in time. Every summer, the Ramatuelle Festival takes place – an unmissable event blending live performances, comedy, theatre and variety shows, and attracting numerous public figures.

The world’s most famous beach: Pampelonne, a remarkable natural area

But Ramatuelle is more than just its village: just a few minutes away, Pampelonne Beach stretches for kilometres of fine sand, lapped by turquoise waters. It’s the ideal spot to alternate between lazing about, swimming and partying at the many beach clubs. The more secluded coves offer a haven of tranquillity for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the better-known beaches.

Ramatuelle thus combines historic charm with natural beauty, offering visitors a complete experience: strolling through the picturesque narrow streets in the morning, then feeling the warm sand beneath your feet and listening to the lapping of the waves in the afternoon. A destination where heritage and the sea come together in a unique Mediterranean setting.