A bustling little village that's worth stopping by.
La Garde-Freinet
Charming market town located in the centre of the Massif des Maures
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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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 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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La Citadelle
Old fortress which formed an essential part of the village's defence system
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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Musee de l'Annonciade - Art Museum
Popular art gallery in a chapel converted into a 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 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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Eglise Notre Dame de l'Assomption 
Eglise Notre Dame de l'Assomption
Beautiful Italian baroque-style church in the heart of Saint-Tropez
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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Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Ramatuelle 
Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Ramatuelle
Small hilltop chapel within a beautiful romantic setting with spectacular views
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.
Beaches in Saint Tropez
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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Salins Beach 
Salins Beach
Beautiful shingle beach shaded by huge pine trees north of Pampelonne 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 & Dining in Saint Tropez
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L'Isoletta Restaurant
Italian, Mediterranean and quality cuisine at Le Bastide de Saint Tropez
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
Chic, quality restaurant with fabulous terrace
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
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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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Cucina at Byblos Restaurant
Located down the stairs leading to the Byblos hotel
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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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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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.
Nightlife in Saint Tropez
Bars & Clubs in Saint Tropez
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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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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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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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Café de Paris 
Café de Paris
Popular Saint-Tropez institution recently revived
Chic brasseries in the Tropezian spirit in a prime location at the port
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L'Esqui Nightclub
The not to be missed, a gay-friendly nightclub of the Old Town
The only official Gay Club in Saint Tropez is located near the port, in the heart of the old town. Entertaining locals and visitors since 1998.
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Kelly's Pub La Grotte 
Kelly's Pub La Grotte
Every town has an Irish bar...and this is it in St Tropez!
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
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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Private Coastal Boat Trip
60 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 trip around the Bay of Canoubiers.
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Gulf of Saint Tropez Boat Trip
60 person motor boat trip, with sightseeing along the coast
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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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.
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Coastal Boat Trip
60 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. 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.
Yachts & Sailing in Saint Tropez
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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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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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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.
Read more about Looney Motor Yacht - 22m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
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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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Itama 38 12m Motor Yacht
Accommodating up to 12 people, it has two sun beds, one in the front and one at the rear; it has a double cabin, a kitchen and a bathroom with all modern amenities.
Watersports in Saint Tropez
Watersports in Saint Tropez
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Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez
Sailing Club within the Saint Tropez harbour
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
Fun watersport activities with fully qualified instructors
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
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.
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
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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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Bella Villa
Villa with an outstanding location near the prestigious village of Saint-Tropez and the renowned beaches of Pampelonne.
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Malou Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Waterfront vacation home for rent - Villa Malou
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Chaza Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Seasonal rental villa with swimming pool - Villa Chaza
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Alma Villa, Sainte-Maxime
Villa for rent for 8 people with sea view in Sainte-Maxime
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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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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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Domaine de L'Astragale Hotel
Stylish centrally located luxury hotel overlooking a tropical garden
Enjoy a holiday in one of the most enchanting places on the French Riviera. This resort is perfect for tourists who want to experience a Provence tour or simply enjoy relaxation and comfort in a tranquil and peaceful environment.
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La Bastide de Saint Tropez Hotel
Luxury boutique hotel in the heart of a heavenly & exotic garden
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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Le Pre de la Mer Hotel
Charming designer hotel close to both the town centre & beach
This four-star hotel is ideally located and offers a luxurious and serene setting for your holiday in Saint Tropez.
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Mas Bellevue Hotel
Top-end 4 star seaside hotel with the charm of a Provencal country-house
Minutes from the Pamplonne beaches and the centre of Saint Tropez, discover a charming Provencal farmhouse and its stunning pools and sea views.
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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.
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
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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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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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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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 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.
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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.
Property For Sale in Saint Tropez
Property for Sale in Saint Tropez
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Apartment for Sale | STZ250337
Bright and spacious apartment in the heart of Saint-Tropez
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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 | stz260386
Just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of Saint-Tropez and the iconic beaches of Les Canebiers and Les Graniers, this exceptional property perfectly embodies the Tropezian art of living: a subtle balance between vibrancy and tranquility, comfort and authenticity.
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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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Villa for Sale | STZ250006
Villa with private pool in the centre of the village of Saint-Tropez
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Villa for Sale | stz260407
Charming five bedroom property located within a private estate, ideally situated between Les Salins and Les Canoubiers.
