© Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez
© Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez officiel
Voiles de Saint Tropez 2017 bookings
How to book for this classic sailing regatta in September
Each September the port town of Saint Tropez plays host to one of the biggest gatherings of yachts at the much-anticipated Voiles de Saint Tropez.
Certainly one of the main late summer events on the Cote d'Azur, the 2017 edition will bring together some 300 yachts, both new and old, from across France and Europe for an action packed week of sailing, racing and celebration.
How to get there
Flying is almost certainly the quickest option and will bring you into the region via Nice Cote d'Azur airport or Marseille Provence airport. You can then make your onward journey to Saint Tropez either by airport transfer or by hiring a car. There is a local airport that is closer, La Mole, just 17km from the village of Saint Tropez, for arrivals by private jet and helicopter; as well as a few charter flights from specific destinations, for those so inclined.
For a more scenic journey you may want to consider taking a boat to Saint-Tropez, either your own charter; or there is a boat-trip you can book on to. Fly into Nice and then the boat trip takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, operating from May to September. It's a lovely way to admire the coast en-route and a fun way to arrive into the Mediterranean's most famous port!
Where to stay
There is no shortage of great accommodation in Saint Tropez. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action by the marina or have a more private experience in the hills above St Tropez, there is a luxury hotel to suit. Equally as luxurious but with a more individual style, Saint Tropez also has a wonderful selection boutique hotels. Many are converted mansion houses in the heart of the old town, with period features and gracious public spaces. Book in advance to secure a room!
Booking tickets
There is no need to buy tickets for the Voiles de Saint Tropez. Most of the action will take place on the water so all you need is a good spot to watch the action and a pair of binoculars to really see what is going on. The festivities on land are mostly free and include a 'salon' area with musical entertainment, exhibition stalls and all things sailing! Some of the reception events are by invitation only but if you check out the programme in advance then you will see that there are several public events as well.
Getting to the venue
Most of the entertainment will take place in the streets of the old part of Saint Tropez, in the narrow cobbled lanes that lead from the Port to the foot of the Citadel. Luckily town of Saint Tropez is relatively small and it is easy to walk from one end to the other. However, if your accommodation is outside of the town then you may need to consider driving or public transport.
If driving there are plenty of public car parks in and around the port area, although these are likely to be busy during this popular event.
The bus services are regular, if not frequent, and can take you to main bus station in Saint Tropez, close to the Hotel de Paris. from here it is a five-minute walk along to the Port area.
Where to eat
Saint Tropez has no shortage of good quality cafes and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. The old town, located right by the port, has plenty of options for food so that you don't need to travel far to refuel during the event.
However, if you fancy something a little more special then why not try one of Saint Tropez's famed Michelin star restaurants, such as La Vague d'Or restaurant or La Voile restaurant in nearby La Reserve Ramatuelle Spa Hotel for a real treat.
What else to do in Saint Tropez in September
By happy coincidence the International Contemporary Art Fair of Saint Tropez happens to be on at the same time as the Voiles de Saint Tropez, allowing you the chance to experience some art and culture with your sporting entertainment.
No trip to Saint Tropez is complete without a stroll around the marina to ogle at the yachts of the rich and famous...maybe even take a spin in one yourself. Whatever you do, make sure you take the time to sit at one of the port side restaurants to enjoy an ice cool glass of local rosé wine
More inspiration...
If you can tear yourself away from the sailing at then there are plenty of other things to see and do in Saint Tropez. Don't forget to check out our Events Calendar to see what else is on in Saint Tropez during your visit.
