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.
Grimaud, Golfe de Saint Tropez
Hilltop village which has maintained its medieval character
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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Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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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Le Chateau de la Moutte
Grand manor house with beautiful gardens built in the mid-1800s
Le Chateau de la Moutte is a 19th century manor house nestled in a palm tree park with woods and vines, which represents an incredible element of Saint Tropez’s natural heritage.
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La Maison des Papillons - Butterfly Museum
Butterfly museum set within a typical Provençal house featuring over 35,000 specimens
The Butterfly Museum is located in the old town, spread across two floors, the collection houses an enormous quantity of different species. There are over 35,000 specimens, including rare types from Africa and South America.
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Musee d'Histoire Maritime
A museum dedicated to the history of Saint-Tropez
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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Germaine L'Hardy's Botanical Garden, Gassin
Private botanical garden featuring many Mediterranean species
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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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo) 
Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Zoo where you can see animals from all around the world as well as Mediterranean plants
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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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Displaying Fréjus’s archaeological heritage, mainly from the Roman period
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.
Beaches in Grimaud
Beaches in Saint-Tropez
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Bouillabaisse Beach 
Bouillabaisse Beach
Delightful fine sandy beach at the entrance of Saint-Tropez
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 
La Ponche Beach
Small beach fronting the oldest part of Saint-Tropez village
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 
Graniers Beach
Small cove which has retained all of its natural wild side
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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Canoubiers Beach 
Canoubiers Beach
Wide sandy beach that is the local's favourite destination
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
Longest, most famous and most popular beach in Saint-Tropez
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 
L'Escalet Beach, Ramatuelle
One of the Saint-Tropez region's hidden gems situated on the south side of Cap Camarat
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 & Dining in Grimaud
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Les Toits Lounge 
Les Toits Lounge
Lounge bar and restaurant with spectacular views over St Tropez
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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La Ponche Restaurant
Restaurant with sea view terrace in Saint-Tropez
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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Matsuhisa Restaurant
Asian influenced cuisine at the Chateau de la Messardière
Discover pan-Asian cuisine in all its splendour, with breathtaking views of the Pampelonne Bay.
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B Lounve-Bar and Restaurant
Located in the hip and chic Hotel Byblos
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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Bagatelle Beach Club
High class beachclub offering refined Mediterranean cuisine
After their success in the United States, Brazil and St Barth, the owners of Le Bagatelle transferred the concept on the famous Pampelonne beach.
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La Palmeraie Restaurant, La Croix Valmer
Michelin-starred restaurant of the Chateau de Valmer hotel
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.
Nightlife in Grimaud
Bars & Clubs in Grimaud
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White 1921 Bar
Elegant, romantic & peaceful spot to enjoy champagne & cocktails
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
Contemporary bar with huge wine cellar, rare champagnes & afternoon tea
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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Les Caves du Roy Nightclub
Most prestigious nightclub in France located within the Hotel Byblos
Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
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Le Sporting Bar & Restaurant 
Le Sporting Bar & Restaurant
Lounge bar & restaurant in the heart of the fishing village of Saint- Tropez
Owned by a former Breton fisherman who drives this café-brasserie in a very friendly atmosphere.
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Le Quai Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Trendy restaurant & cocktail bar on St Tropez port
It’s the hottest bar scene in town from April through the summer. This modern and upscale restaurant attracts Cristal-chugging yacht owners and stiletto-strutting beach club models.
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Dom Perignon Bar
Trendy & refined bar located in the luxurious Sezz Hotel
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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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
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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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
A really family orientated waterpark with slides & a flying boat
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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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Specialised yacht charter itineraries to truly experience the French Riviera, leaving from Saint-Tropez
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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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Regatta Boat Trip
20+ person motor boat, with sightseeing
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 one hour guided boat tour.
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Pampelonne & Cap Camarat Boat Trip
60 person motor boat trip discovering the local beaches
Running every Wednesday, this trip departs from St Tropez, taking you on a tour to discover the beautiful landscapes and beaches along the coast.
Yachts & Sailing in Grimaud
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Baby Magic Superyacht - 23m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Baby Magic is a beautiful 23 metre Aikon yacht for charter in France. She was first constructed in 2006 by the renowned Italian shipyard Aikon Yachts. Then in 2018 she underwent an extensive refit, including a new painted hull. Thanks to said refit, she is in great condition and certainly has a quality design. Baby Magic is based in Frejus, making her the ideal choice for cruising around the sunny South of France and the West Mediterranean waters.
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Looney Motor Yacht - 22m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Looney is a striking 22m Pershing motor yacht, offering the perfect combination of performance, style and comfort for cruising the French and Italian Riviera. Built in 2012, she stands out with her sleek silver profile and unmistakable sporty design, delivering exhilarating cruising speeds of up to 35 knots.
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Jack III Motor Yacht - 20m Motor Yacht for up to 10 people
Jack III is a sleek and sophisticated 19.76m Riva 63 Vertigo built in 2015, offering an exceptional blend of Italian design, luxury and performance. Based in Saint-Raphaël, she is the ideal yacht for stylish day charters and overnight escapes along the French Riviera, delivering the unmistakable elegance and craftsmanship for which Riva is renowned.
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Aquaholic Superyacht - 29m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Step aboard Aquaholic, a sleek twenty-nine-metre motor yacht built by Custom Line, and enjoy a refined charter experience on the French Riviera. Delivered in 2009, she showcases modern design, generous spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere throughout.
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Annamia Motor Yacht - 43m YAcht Charter for up to 12 people
Annamia is an exceptional 43m Baglietto motor yacht, offering a luxurious charter experience with expansive living spaces spread across three beautifully designed decks. Combining elegant Italian styling, impressive amenities and a highly attentive crew, she is perfectly suited to unforgettable Mediterranean charters.
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Orion I Superyacht - 28m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
The 28m motor yacht Orion I is a stylish Mangusta build, offering a perfect balance of speed, comfort and contemporary design. Based in the South of France and available for charter across both France and Italy, she is an excellent choice for exploring the West Mediterranean in style.
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Watersports in Grimaud
Watersports in Grimaud
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H2O Diving School, Sainte Maxime
Scuba diving in over 40 different exceptional spots
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.
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Mio Palmo Plongee Diving School
Learn how to dive in the waters of the Saint Tropez Gulf
Open from May through until October you are welcome to discover scuba diving with Mio Palmo Plongée.
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Cap Camarat Plongee Diving School, Ramatuelle
Great diving in Cap Camarat for beginners & certified divers
Cap Marat diving centre is located under the Cape Camarat lighthouse and 100 metres from the famous Pampelonne beach.
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Friendly diving centre for enthusiasts & newcomers to the sport
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
Providing all watersports in the beautiful Pampelonne bay
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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Adventure Sports Watersports
Adventure activities and watersports in the gulf of Saint Tropez
Adventure Sports provides a wide range of watersport activities on the warm sunny Mediterranean Sea. Friendly English staff will welcome you in a personal, one to one tuition.
Holiday Rentals in Grimaud
Holiday Rentals in Grimaud
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Ella Villa, Grimaud
Villa for rent on the French Riviera, close to Saint-Tropez and Sainte-Maxime and a few steps from the beaches, this high standing property enjoys a beautiful 4,800m² land planted with trees with an infinity pool and a basin.
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Au Cœur Des Vignes Villa, Ramatuelle
This outstanding villa for rent, nestled in Ramatuelle, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and vineyards. Tucked away in the heart of a lush landscape on a spacious 2-hectare estate, Villa Coeur des Vignes can accommodate up to 12 people and successfully achieves the perfect blend of authentic Provencal charm and modern elegance.
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Sérénité Villa, Grimaud
Luxury villa for rent with sea view in Grimaud
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La Bastide De Grimao Apartment, Grimaud
Villa for 8 people with sea view in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
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Lou Villa, Grimaud
Beautiful villa with swimming pool for seasonal rental in Grimaud - Villa Lou
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Alma Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Villa for rent for 8 people with sea view in Sainte-Maxime
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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Pan dei Palais Boutique Hotel
Boutique colonial-style hotel in the heart of Saint Tropez
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.
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Le Pavillion de Pampelonne Hotel, Pampelonne
A popular small hotel close to the beach with excellent service
The hotel is located 600 metres from the wonderful beach of Pampelonne and 4km from St Tropez and the picturesque village of Ramatuelle.
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Villa Marie Boutique Hotel
4 Star boutique hotel overlooking the Bay of Pampelonne
Villa Marie Saint-Tropez reinvents the charm of Riviera style with its elegant suites, a restaurant of southern cuisine and a welcoming seafood bar.
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Hotel de Paris
Renowned luxurious hotel with spa & roof top pool in the centre of Saint Tropez
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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La Ponche Hotel
Centrally located charming & elegant luxury waterfront hotel
This exquisite five star hotel is all about elegance and luxury and is dedicated to Jacques Cordier’s work.
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Hostellerie Le Baou Hotel, Ramatuelle
Panoramic views from hillside hotel in Ramatuelle, near St Tropez
Just 10km from St Tropez amongst the vineyards of the hillside village of Ramatuelle this hotel has flower filler private gardens and an outdoor swimming pool area.
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
Nice Airport to Saint Tropez from €275 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
With years of Alpine transfer experience through its sister brand, this private airport transfer service brings reliable, professional travel to the Côte d'Azur, with trained, English-speaking drivers who know the local area. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, including Mercedes models and spacious people carriers, offer Wi-Fi and complimentary mineral water, while airport meet and greet, flight and traffic monitoring, free child seats and clear pricing help make your journey easier. With automated pick-up reminders, door-to-door service and twenty-four-hour summer telephone support, you can arrange your transfer with greater peace of mind.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Luxury helicopter transfers to the French Riviera & the French Alps
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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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Private Airport Transfers
Top-of-the-range transportation service
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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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
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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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
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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Villa for Sale | stz250336
At the heart of the countryside, this elegant villa of approximately 290 sq m in La Garde-Freinet offers a unique living environment and open views over the hills and the Plaine des Maures.
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Apartment for Sale | STZ260364
Refurbished two bedroom apartment with south-facing private garden / terrace
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Villa for Sale | STZ250352
Ideally located at the heart of a meticulously landscaped setting, this exceptional property spans a fully enclosed plot of 4,857 sq.m. It comprises two fully renovated buildings, each benefiting from a certificate of conformity, for a total floor area of 436.90 sq.m.
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Apartment for Sale | stz260389
From the moment you step inside, your eyes are drawn to the breathtaking view - an endless expanse of shimmering sea, visible from both the west-facing reception room and the primary bedroom, bathed in the golden light of sunset.
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Villa for Sale | stz260388
A rare private estate near Saint-Tropez, this exceptional 19th-century Provençal property embodies all the charm and authenticity of Provence across nearly 9 hectares of land.
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Villa for Sale | STZ260365
Elegant single-storey villa in the heart of the vineyards, a short walk from Pampelonne Beach
