Grimaud, Golfe de Saint Tropez
Hilltop village which has maintained its medieval character
In summer there is no better place to enjoy the lush flowers of the bougainvillea, plumbago or oleander than in the pretty village of Grimaud. Close to the Mediterranean sea on the first hilltop before the Massif des Maures, Grimaud sits there with a cocky attitude that says: we've been here for ages and that's the way it's going to be for centuries to come.
Saint-Tropez may have won the celebrity contest and claimed the name of the Gulf, but Grimaud wins the fame for prettier village. The word "pretty" comes to mind constantly when you walk the cobble-stoned streets and alleys. Meticulously swept and scrubbed each morning by the workers of the commune, they lead you up and down, through archways and around sharp corners to a new alley or surprise you with a fountain on a private square.
In the narrow streets you find many restaurants, boutiques, and galleries that display local artists. Before you allow yourself to be drawn into the local shops or galleries, pay a visit to the Church of St. Michel, a wonder from the 11th century, Romanesque without a Gothic addition. Spartan, but pure. Sit down in one of the pews and let you imagination go back centuries ago.
The prettiness of Grimaud comes at a price. Or I should say, the price of the village contributes to its prettiness. Grimaud is one of the richest villages of France. In part, because the village houses are bought up by foreigners and restored to perfection. In the surrounding area, villas dot the landscape, most of them owned by outsiders. The tax revenue for secondary homes is substantial. When you see the daily watering of flowers, the scrubbing of the streets, you know that the village budget is ample. But the main revenue for Grimaud comes from its hugely successful satellite village on the water, Port-Grimaud.
Along with a couple of cafe's and restaurants, you'll find a local butcher, baker and fruit 'n' veg shop. In the centre you'll find a boules pitch which you try yourself or watch others from one of the benches that line the square. There are two or three galleries/gift shops, but most of your time here should be spent wandering the little cobbled back streets that hide a wealth of charming, flower-covered houses.
History & Culture in Grimaud
Grimaud is a fine example of the medieval perched village, and is towered over by the ruins of the 11th century Grimaud castle. The Grimaldi family (those of Monaco fame) were the seigneurs of the castle and gave their name to the village. The castle has always been so dominant in the region with its vast view over the sea, that the gulf below was known as the Gulf of Grimaud until the late 19th century. Now the waters are know as the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
This village has been extremely well restored, with warm stone and Provencal-painted buildings, vaulted passageways and fountains in pretty squares. It's quite a sleepy place with a traditional feel, and in the centre you'll find a boules pitch where you can have a game or just watch the locals play from one of the benches that line the square. If heading to Port Grimaud, you'll discover a modern town that has been designed to look like an old Provencal town built on canal waterways, with pastel-coloured buildings sitting by the pretty port. Despite only having been designed and built in 1998, the architect has succeeded in making this village look and feel quite authentic - and a really rather pleasant place to be.
Sights & Attractions in Grimaud
Follow the steps up to the ruined 11th century castle, 'Chateau de Grimaud', which was destroyed by Richelieu during the 17th century Wars of Religion. There are commanding views of the countryside and coast from up here. Back in the village the 12th century Romanesque Saint-Michel is worth a look, as well as the 15th century Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs. Just outside the village is an old flour mill with a beautiful restored windmill, or you can head further afield to the ruins of the aqueduct at Pont de Fées. You can also take a walking tour of the village, pick up a pamphlet at the tourist office.
Sights in Grimaud
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Myrtes Botanical Gardens, Sainte-Maxime
Facing the Saint-Tropez bay, this is a truly airy park perfect for a relaxed stroll. The visitors will discover nearly sixty acclimatised plants such as centenary palm trees and many typical Mediterranean species like cypress and pine trees.
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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
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La Citadelle
As you climb uphill past all the restaurant lined streets, you get to the impressive 17th century Citadel overlooking the village of Saint-Tropez.
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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
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Germaine L'Hardy's Botanical Garden, Gassin
Huddled up against the green hills of the village of Gassin, the beautiful private garden of Marie-Thérèse L’Hardy, a botanical fanatic, is quite surprising. Hidden from the heat, this garden is a paradise to wander around.
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Domaine du Rayol, Le Rayol-Canadel
This wonderful botanical gardens, dating from the early 20th century, are located in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer. They are a great place to spend a day outdoors, with a cafe, a bookshop and lots of exhibitions and guided tours to discover the secrets of Mediterranean floral species.
Dining in Grimaud
Restaurants in Grimaud
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Les Toits Lounge
A magical place that gives you the feeling of being suspended between sky and sea, overlooking the sunbaked rooftops of Saint-Tropez and the wonderful Mediterranean Sea.
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Jardin Tropezina Beach Club
Situated at the north end of the infamous Pampelonne beach you will find that beach umbrellas and mattresses are available for a quiet afternoon in the sun by the sea.
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Cucina at Byblos Restaurant
The restaurant Cucina Byblos, welcomes guests warmly to a colourful and resolutely contemporary setting, in which a relaxed atmosphere reigns supreme.
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La Palmeraie Restaurant, La Croix Valmer
In the heart of an Andalusian garden or on the terrace opening on to the park, you can enjoy a dinner under the stars in a calm and authentic Provencal environment.
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L'Isoletta Restaurant
The restaurant of the Bastide de Saint-Tropez hotel is run by Sardinian chef, Alessandro Caria, and his team.
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Colette Restaurant
Renowned for its fine and distinguished cuisine, the talented chef creates tasty southern flavoured compositions served on the luxury terrace.
Events in Grimaud
With craft fairs and village fetes you will not be short of things to keep you entertained in Grimaud or around the Port area. Make sure you check our events calendar so that you don't miss out.
Events in Grimaud
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Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez Regatta
A famous classic regatta that ends the Mediterranean sailing season, St-Tropez’ late-summer regatta brings in 300 yachts, both ancient and modern, for maritime effervescence.
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La Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez
Envied by many towns, La Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez is, under any circumstances, an event not to be missed.
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Arts and Crafts market, Ramatuelle
Stalls will offer handmade objects, as well as homemade local delicacies.
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La Croix-Valmer night market
Here you will find local arts and crafts and handmade objects in a lively evening atmosphere.
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Voiles d'Automne Regatta
Between 40 to 60 yachts participate, which despite the at times variable weather conditions, is always a success.
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Brocante Le Jas des Robert (flea market)
The Brocante (or flea market) Le Jas des Robert has become a must-see place for the bargain hunters of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez.
Things to do in Grimaud
Situated on the edge of the Massif des Maures, Grimaud is in a fantastic spot for outdoor pursuits. The Maures have many hiking and mountain-biking trails which pass by Grimaud, including the long-range hiking trail GR51.
From Grimaud villlage you can also take a short hike to the beautiful ruins of the old aqueduct at Pont de Fees.
On summer nights, one of the best activities of the area is to head up to the ruins of the castle, where one section has been transformed into an outdoor theatre with a program of events, including a world music festival 'Les Grimaldines' in July.
Down on the coast, Port Grimaud is near the end of the GR9 hiking trail or you can take a diving excursion to explore the coast underwater. Why not rent a boat for the day and head out on the Golfe de Saint Tropez, stopping at sandy beaches and quiet coves along the way.
Things To Do in Grimaud
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Pampelonne & Cap Camarat Boat Trip
Running every Wednesday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes and beaches along the coast.
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Gulf of Saint Tropez Boat Trip
Running every Saturday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes around the Gulf of St Tropez.
Hotels in Grimaud
As Grimaud is a slightly less expensive alternative to its neighbour St Tropez, it's a popular place to be based. There are a couple of very nice local boutique hotels in or near the village, plus a good selection of B&B's. Further accommodation options can be found Saint Tropez itself.
Hotels in Grimaud
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La Bastide de Saint Tropez Hotel
Enjoy the ultimate elegance of typical Tropezienne residence in the heart of heavenly and exotic 2 acre park, where each guest is welcome and considered as a host.
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Chateau de la Messardiere Spa Hotel
The exclusive palace-style hotel is Saint Tropez' largest hotel, situated in the middle of a park with amazing scents and breath-taking views.
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Lou Pinet Hotel & Spa
30 August 20257 NightsOpened in 2017, this hotel was completely transformed with a team comprising some of the best designers, architects and landscapers, as well as world-famous chefs and mixologists.
Price: €18,766
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La Ponche Hotel
30 August 20257 NightsThis exquisite five star hotel is all about elegance and luxury and is dedicated to Jacques Cordier’s work.
Price: €32,928
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La Mandarine Hotel
30 August 20257 NightsThis charming and elegant Provencal style hotel offers a rare moment of intimacy in Saint Tropez, enjoy the quiet yet close to the city-centre.
Price: €11,114
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Les Bouis Hotel, Ramatuelle
30 August 20257 NightsThis hotel is a beautiful Provencal manor, nestled amidst an umbrella pine forest with an overwhelming view over the sea. You will appreciate the charming and attentive welcome from the owners and their attention to detail.
Price: €2,780
How to get to Grimaud
Port Grimaud, 5km away on the coast, is a modern town designed in the old Provencal style, with a bustling superyacht marina. To get to the old village by public transport, you can take the train to Saint-Raphael, then hop on the bus to Grimaud St-Pons where you can then change for the line 7702 to Grimaud. Alternatively, in the summer a little tourist train (complete with commentary) runs from Port Grimaud up to the village.
Transfers for Saint-Tropez
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Millenium Transport Transfers
For more than 10 years, Millenium Transport has been the leading firm in terms of top-of-the-range transports with driver and provides a high quality of service in order to satisfy the needs and expectations of international clients who make the French Riviera so famous.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Property For Sale in Grimaud
Property for Sale in Grimaud
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Villa for Sale
Ideally nestled in the sought-after town of Cavalaire, just a few steps from the Mediterranean and the village, this villa enjoys a truly exceptional location.
Price: €1,490,000
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Villa for Sale
Historical property to renovate and close to the sea, with building permit (under review) for two additional villas with Pool.
Price: €3,300,000
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Villa for Sale
Located in a sought-after area not far from Gigaro beach, this plot offers open views of the sea (on a side) and countryside.
Price: €756,000
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House for Sale
Set on a 2,090 m² plot in the heart of a peaceful hamlet surrounded by nature, this character-filled stone property is a true haven of tranquillity.
Price: €750,000
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Villa for Sale
Villa in the heart of the countryside - uninterrupted view of the village
Price: €995,000
