Fête de la Musique
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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.
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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Bastille Day
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Saint-Tropez, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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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Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Ramatuelle
La Chapelle Sainte-Anne was built in 1618 to thank God for sparing Saint-Tropez from the plague. Located on the hill of Mont Pécoulet, this simple building boasts a traditional Provençal style and is surrounded by cypress and pine trees.
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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.
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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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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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Musee d'Histoire Maritime
Recently renovated, this modern museum is located in the dungeon of the village's Citadel, allowing visitors to discover the true identity of Saint-Tropez as a maritime city through its last 500 years of history.
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Musee de l'Annonciade - Art Museum
The Annonciade museum was created in 1922 and holds impressive art work dating from 1890 to 1950, including some of the greatest French masterminds such as Matisse, Derain and Marquet.
Beaches in Grimaud
Beaches in Saint-Tropez
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Bouillabaisse Beach
La Bouillabaisse is a more low-key option to the swanky beach clubs on Pampelonne beach and is situated closer to the town of Saint Tropez.
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La Ponche Beach
Plage de la Ponche and its neighbour Plage de la Fontanette are two lovely beaches which you can access directly from the heart of the village.
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Graniers Beach
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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Canoubiers Beach
This beach is situated around the coastline from Plage des Graniers, and sits close to the main road of Route des Salins, so access from St-Tropez town is fairly easy.
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Pampelonne Beach
Pampelonne Beach is the beach most people associate with Saint-Tropez. This is where you will find the A-listers, the famous beach clubs, and the super yachts resting in the bay.
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L'Escalet Beach, Ramatuelle
The coastline between Cape Taillat and Cape Camarat is a succession of pretty little beaches, coves and rocky inlets, with translucent waters over the polished rocks or golden sands.
Dining in Grimaud
Restaurants in Grimaud
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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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La Voile Restaurant, Ramatuelle
Open to all, the starred restaurant provides an opportunity to get to know La Réserve Ramatuelle in the most delicious possible manner.
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B Lounve-Bar and Restaurant
At the heart of the hotel, next to the pool, le "B" evolves in keeping with your whims. Breakfast in the shade of lemon trees, lunch by the pool, cocktails at sunset, dinner on the terrace, a hunger pang during the night, whatever time, day or night, le "B" will grant your slightest whim.
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La Ponche Restaurant
The gourmet restaurant’s secluded dining room offers a splendid view on Saint-Tropez’s bay. In total secrecy, the hosts can dream along as they admire beautiful landscapes that resemble works of art.
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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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The Pationata Restaurant
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
Nightlife in Grimaud
Bars & Clubs in Grimaud
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Les Caves du Roy Nightclub
Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
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White 1921 Bar
Offering a delightful garden, the corner bar is open every evening from 20:00. A cellar of superior champagnes can be tasted by the glass.
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The Atrium Bar
This modern bar is situated within the famous Hotel de Paris which was once graced by stars such Coco Chanel, Jean Cocteau and Clarke Gable.
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Bar du Sube
Old fashioned style bar with leather seats and a comforting fireplace, situated right on the port side overlooking the super yachts in St Tropez.
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VIP Room Bar & Nightclub
Expect glitz, glamour, champagne, celebrities and one wild party at the VIP room. Located in the centre of the Saint Tropez this restaurant/club attracts some of the most famous guests in the world.
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Dom Perignon Bar
Le Bar is situated in the stylish Sezz Hotel.
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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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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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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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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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.
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Private Coastal Boat Trip
This is a great way to come and discover the beautiful village of Saint Tropez. Sit back and relax aboard the Brigantin II boat as the experienced crew takes you on a memorable trip around the Bay of Canoubiers.
Watersports in Grimaud
Watersports in Grimaud
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European Diving School, Ramatuelle
Excellent diving centre located in Saint Tropez offers diving in one of the most fascinating and diverse areas of Europe.
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Marine Air Sport Watersports
Located in Saint Tropez, Marine Air Sport offers a wide range of nautical and aerial sports. The sporting activities include water-ski, wakeboard, Jet Ski, parascending and boat rentals.
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Mio Palmo Plongee Diving School
Open from May through until October you are welcome to discover scuba diving with Mio Palmo Plongée.
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Aventure Sous Marine Diving School, Saint Raphael
Since 1994, the team at this diving school have been located in Saint Raphael in the Var department.
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
Sun Force is located on the famous Pampelonne beach. Its owner, Pierre Tourneq, has been running this business for over 30 years, surrounded by a fully qualified team.
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H2O Diving School, Sainte Maxime
The structure of the diving centre is ideally located in the heart of the Sainte-Maxime harbour with direct access to a parking where diving gear can be dropped off.
Villas in Grimaud
Villas in Grimaud
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Chaza Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Seasonal rental villa with swimming pool - Villa Chaza
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Marine Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Splendid villa with sea view in Sainte-Maxime
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Eldorado Villa, La Croix-Valmer
Luxurious villa for rent, with direct access to the coastal path, enjoying a panoramic and breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
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Azzurra Villa, Cavalaire-sur-Mer
Discover the unique charm of their villa located in Cavalaire-Sur-Mer, offering an incredible 360° panoramic sea view, designed specifically to comfortably accommodate up to 8 people.
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Amour Villa, Grimaud
Looking for the perfect Côte d’Azur getaway? We’ve got just what you’re looking for! Discover their exceptional, newly renovated villa, offering an unforgettable holiday experience in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
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Sérénité Villa, Grimaud
Luxury villa for rent with sea view in Grimaud
Holidays Rentals in Grimaud
Holiday Rentals in Grimaud
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Tropézienne Villa
Villa Tropézienne, aptly named, located in the heights of Capon, in Saint-Tropez, close to the village and the beaches, it will be for you the opportunity to evolve in a typical Provencal style house, warm and welcoming.
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Tropez Villa
The Villa Tropez, a 5-star rated property, spans an area of 775 m² and is situated on a 13,000 m² estate in Saint-Tropez.
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Evasion Villa, Cavalaire-Sur-Mer
Superb villa with a breathtaking sea view, ideally located in one of the quietest areas and only 500m from the most beautiful beaches of Cavalaire-Sur-Mer.
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Joudi Villa, Grimaud
Luxury villa for 10 people with tennis court, swimming pool, putting green
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Lou Villa, Grimaud
Beautiful villa with swimming pool for seasonal rental in Grimaud - Villa Lou
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Turquoise Villa, Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer
Sumptuous contemporary villa, ideally located at a few minutes walk from the famous beaches of Rayol and the city center, while enjoying a quiet and peaceful environment, without being overlooked.
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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Lou Pinet Hotel & Spa
Opened 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.
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Muse Spa Hotel
This five star hotel reveals itself as a heaven of peace, nestled between the city centre of Saint Tropez and the bay of Pampelonne.
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Hotel de Paris
This famous hotel is ideally located in the centre of Saint Tropez, and is an invitation to pleasure, luxury and refinement.
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Kube Hotel
The Hotel is a design and luxury technological resort in Saint Tropez.
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Le Pre de la Mer Hotel
This four-star hotel is ideally located and offers a luxurious and serene setting for your holiday in Saint Tropez.
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Pan dei Palais Boutique Hotel
Near the Place des Lices in the old town of St Tropez, a finely carved wooden door invites you to enter the Pan Deï Palais hotel, a Garden of Eden.
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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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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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.
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Acarre Limousine Transfers
Acarre Limousine offers transfers from the airport, train station and other taxi services whether it is from the beach or to a nightclub.
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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.
Property For Sale in Grimaud
Property for Sale in Grimaud
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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.
House for Sale
€750,000 -
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Villa for Sale
SOLE AGENT - Stylish Villa in Saint-Tropez – Peaceful, Stylish & Exceptionally Well-Located
Villa for Sale
€7,590,000 -
Villa for Sale
Contemporary five bedroom villa in a sought-after area close to the beach.
Villa for Sale
€4,950,000 -
Villa for Sale
Contemporary villa with sea view in a secure estate in Sainte-Maxime
Villa for Sale
€5,490,000 -
