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.
La Garde-Freinet
Charming market town located in the centre of the Massif des Maures
A bustling little village that's worth stopping by.
Just 13km north of the Mediterranean sea in the Bay of Saint-Tropez, and 18km south of the Autoroute du Soleil, which takes you to the mondaine pleasures of Antibes, Cannes or Monaco, lies the Provence village of La Garde-Freinet.
At an altitude of 350m, La Garde-Freinet posts itself as a mediator between two worlds. On the one hand it's part of the everyday working life and on the other it flirts with artistic tendencies and extravagance.
Today, La Garde-Freinet is accessible, if you don't mind a curvy, mountainous access road. If you enjoy walks and hikes, or if you prefer boutiques and restaurants, La Garde-Freinet has a lot to offer. It even boasts a jazz café ("Le Lezard") where on Saturday night you can enjoy a good meal and some eclectic music. Last time we tried it, we found ourselves stomping and clapping along to Blue Suede Shoes. Not sure whether "jazz" will stretch that far, but way after midnight who cares, right?
There are some good restaurants in Garde-Freinet, many of them in the Place Veille or the Place du Marche. Enjoy a Provençal meal in one of the terrace restaurants overlooking the beautiful countryside, or head to popular Le Feiulle for a Moroccan meal in a cosy garden setting.
Events in Saint Tropez
As with many towns and villages along the south coast, La Garde-Freinet is no different and hosts its very own town fête.
Events in Saint Tropez
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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 Saint Tropez
La Garde Freinet is a medieval town that runs across a narrow ledge with lovely views across the Maures hill range and the surrounding forests. Narrow streets run between old stone buildings, bubbling fountains and pavement cafés in pretty squares, and there's also the ruins of the old fort. There are chestnut groves in this area and you can buy delicious local chestnut paste and chestnut honey in little boutiques and gift shops in the town.
Until the beginning of the 20th century, La Garde-Freinet found an ample income in the harvest of chestnuts, the sale of cork oak and even the culture of silkworms. Now most of that is in the past. Today, tourism is a major source of income for the village of 1,500 people. This does not mean that the area is swamped with holiday makers every day of the year. In the high season of July and August you might find it difficult to park your car in the village square, but beyond that it's surprisingly accessible and agreeable.
What makes La Garde-Freinet especially proud is its medieval fortress, built on a hilltop, 3km outside the village. For many years it was thought that the Saracens were the builders of the fortress. Now historians believe that it was the indigenous people, perhaps against the Saracens, who secured themselves an impenetrable habitat in the mountains.
Sights & Attractions in Saint Tropez
When it comes to sightseeing, there are the ruins of the chateau, a fort built in the 8th century, some charming fountains and lavoirs to be seen in the village, as well as the 16th century St.Clément church.
Sights in Saint Tropez
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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.
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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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La Maison des Papillons - Butterfly Museum
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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Eglise Notre Dame de l'Assomption
This Italian baroque-style church topped by a bell tower was built in 1784. It is one of the most recognisable sights in Saint-Tropez, with its bright ochre and earthy sienna coloured bell tower.
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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 la Gendarmerie et du Cinema
As well as discovering the many cinematic influences in the region you are invited to explore the incredible history of the 'Gendarmes de Saint-Tropez'
Beaches in Saint Tropez
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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Salins Beach
Located north of the infamous stretch known as Pampelonne beach and about 7km from the town of Saint-Tropez, Plage des Salins is a little slice of wilderness.
Dining in Saint Tropez
Restaurants in Saint Tropez
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Matsuhisa Restaurant
Discover pan-Asian cuisine in all its splendour, with breathtaking views of the Pampelonne Bay.
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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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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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The Pationata Restaurant
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
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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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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.
Nightlife in Saint Tropez
Bars & Clubs 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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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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Café de Paris
Chic brasseries in the Tropezian spirit in a prime location at the port
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Gaïo Restaurant, Bar & Nightclub
Formerly the Papagayo nightclub, this is another of the legendary nightclubs in Saint Tropez where you can expect to have a wild night and party with the stars.
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Kelly's Pub La Grotte
If all the glitz and glamour is getting a bit much, retreat to the Irish pub, where casual clothes are welcomed and you’ll look a bit of a prat in a dress made of glitter.
Things to do in Saint Tropez
There are plenty of walking trails around the surrounding areas and Garde-Freinet is a great place to stop on your winding way through the Maures.
The long range hiking path GR9 actually runs through the town, while the GR51 'The Balcony of the Côte d'Azur runs 8km from the town. You can go mountain biking and horse riding in this rolling, forested countryside too - a spectacular way to enjoy the area.
With the narrow, cobbled streets and 16th and 17th century houses, La Garde-Freinet is similar to many villages around the area; its fountains and communal wash basins are typically Provençal and the twice-weekly market is a meeting place for local people and visitors alike.
A one hour hike from the village will take you to the medieval fortress, through brush and overgrowth, steep climbs and occasional steps hewn out of the rocks by the original habitants. When you finally arrive at the ruins of the fortress, you can indulge yourself in the amazing views over the Massif des Maures and beyond over the Alpes Maritimes, and south to the Mediterranean sea. You can imagine yourself in the 9th century when the original inhabitants found a safe haven in the mountains, cut an impressive moat in the rocks, found a water source (even in summer it's still filled with water) and waited a century or three before descending to what is now known as La Garde-Freinet.
Things To Do in Saint Tropez
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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.
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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 one hour guided boat tour. During the cruise you will be shown the old village, the famous beaches and the spectacular millionaire's bay. A full commentary is available in English.
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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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Regatta 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 one hour guided boat tour.
Watersports in Saint Tropez
Watersports in Saint Tropez
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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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Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez
Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez is a sailing club based in the port with over 500 members.
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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.
Villas in Saint Tropez
Villas in Saint Tropez
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
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Jane Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Superb villa for rent with sea view in Sainte-Maxime, in the heart of the Bay of Saint-Tropez - Villa Jane
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L'heure Bleue Villa, Sainte-Maxime
In a sumptuous environment, this exceptional property located in Sainte-Maxime enjoys a breathtaking panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
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Bella Villa
Villa with an outstanding location near the prestigious village of Saint-Tropez and the renowned beaches of Pampelonne.
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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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Alma Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Villa for rent for 8 people with sea view in Sainte-Maxime
Holidays Rentals in Saint Tropez
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
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Émeraude Villa
Villa for Rent for 24 People Near the Parcs de Saint-Tropez
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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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Marine Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Splendid villa with sea view in Sainte-Maxime
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
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Chaza Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Seasonal rental villa with swimming pool - Villa Chaza
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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.
Hotels in Saint Tropez
Hotels in Saint Tropez
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Le Pavillion de Pampelonne Hotel, Pampelonne
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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Byblos Hotel
This luxury hotel is situated between the Citadel and the Place des Lices and embodies the relaxed yet sophisticated lifestyle of St Tropez and the Cote d'Azur.
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La Villa Dune Hotel
You will find that this boutique 5-star luxury hotel offers peace and tranquillity in a stunning setting on the St Tropez peninsula.
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Le Yaca Hotel
This hotel welcomes you in a warm atmosphere in the heart of Saint-Tropez village and offers a refined setting and stylish rooms and suites.
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Le Y Boutique Hotel
Hidden amongst the narrow streets of the old village, this discrete hotel is right at the foot of the Citadel and only 2 minutes from the Port and La Ponche beach.
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Villa Belrose Hotel
An elegant, intimate hideaway situated in the middle of a private estate, with a spectacular view of the bay of Saint-Tropez.
How to get to Saint Tropez
If driving, get off the A8 at Le Cannet des Maures – Le Luc. Take the road D558, direction Saint Tropez. The no.7701 bus runs from Saint Tropez, and the no.7702 runs from Les Arcs.
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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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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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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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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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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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.
Property For Sale in Saint Tropez
Property for Sale in Saint Tropez
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Villa for Sale
Villa with private pool in the centre of the village of Saint-Tropez
Villa for Sale
€4,950,000 -
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Villa for Sale
Exceptional Property with Sea View and Pool in Saint-Tropez
Villa for Sale
€3,500,000 -
Villa for Sale
Elegant property located in a private estate, within walking distance of the village
Villa for Sale
€5,900,000 -
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
SOLE AGENT - Stylish Villa in Saint-Tropez – Peaceful, Stylish & Exceptionally Well-Located
Villa for Sale
€7,590,000
