A village clinging to a hill side, visible from afar, a cluster of houses that are grouped in a dense fortification. Known as a "village perché", it is a striking feature of the Provence landscape. Close to the Mediterranean sea, on the peninsula of St. Tropez, you find two such villages: Ramatuelle and Gassin.
Ramatuelle
Stunning medieval hilltop village located right by Pampelonne beach
You visit Ramatuelle, not because it's more charming than its neighbour Gassin, but because it also encompasses France's most famous beach, Pampelonne. That stretch of five kilometres where the jet set, and those who want to be close to them, tan, swim, cavort, lunch, disco and what-not, in a happy ambience of sun and fun.
Ramatuelle is a small village that offers fabulous views overlooking the Gulf of Saint Tropez. This exceedingly pretty town has gorgeous narrow streets lined with coloured shutters and vibrant pink bourganvillea trees- and lots of cafeés, boutiques and artisan galleries to while away the hours.
In the 1950's it began to attract actors and artists, who settled in the narrow houses, or visited in the season. Many celebrities since then have fallen in love with the place and settled there, and quite a few tourists have too. Today, its summer is filled with performances in the amphitheatre: there's a Theatre Festival in July and in August it hosts a famous Festival du Jazz, when artists from around the world perform over four days.
If you are seeking peace, tranquillity and a heavenly beach holiday, the village is ideal. It is around 10 kilometres to the south west of Saint Tropez.
Events in Ramatuelle
In the summer months the village of Ramatuelle hosts a world-famous jazz festival, where many big names have performed.
Events in Ramatuelle
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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 Ramatuelle
Its history stretches back to at least the early Middle Ages and it's believed that its name comes from the Arab word Rahmatu'llah, which means divine providence. This links the village to the 8th and 9th century when the Saracens terrorised the region.
In the 16th century the village was destroyed during France's religious wars and rebuilt in the early 1600's. Today, when you walk through Ramatuelle, you will easily get lost in its maze of narrow streets, steep short-cuts, and gentle dead-ends. It's as if this Provence village, after all its history, wants to confuse the visitor, friendly or not.
Sights & Attractions in Ramatuelle
There are several buildings of note in Ramatuelle, although much of the enjoyment of the town is to be found just walking through its narrow streets.
The Church of Notre Dame is a 16th century church built up against the thick city walls, its bell tower was also used to keep lookout for approaching danger.
Also of interest is a tiny, Arabian-style prison built by Napoleon III, with old gates built into the walls.
You will also enjoy the different little galleries.
Beaches in Ramatuelle
Pampelonne beach offers five kilometres of fine white sand, including long stretches of public beach as well as an abundance of glamorous beach clubs.
There are also two nudist beaches and several places to hire watersports equipment, and there's some excellent diving to be had just off the coast.
This is one of the most famous beaches on earth, great for celebrity spotting, watching the immense superyachts or just lying back with a cocktail.
Beaches in Saint-Tropez
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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.
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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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Bonne Terrasse Beach, Ramatuelle
A small sheltered beach at the southern end of Pampelonne beach
Bonne Terrasse beach is a sheltered little bay which in olden times provided safe harbour for the local fishing boats. Today, the beach is surrounded by residential properties and well-known restaurants.
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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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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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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.
Dining in Ramatuelle
For Michelin star gastronomy, head to the one-starred La Voile restaurant, for modern, refined food. For something more traditional, the Saveurs Sinceres and L'Ecurie du Castellas both serve great Mediterranean cuisine with fresh Provençal produce. Of course, the many beach restaurants at Pampelonne Beach also await you, and nearby Gassin and Saint Tropez both have some truly excellent restaurants.
Restaurants in Ramatuelle
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La Forge Restaurant, Ramatuelle
Small Italian restaurant with a beautiful terrace
Italian restaurant located in the wonderful village of Ramatuelle. Discover a selection of high quality Italian products in a pleasant, romantic and cosy atmosphere.
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Saveurs Sinceres Restaurant, Ramatuelle
Situated just around the corner from Rue Victor Leon
This restaurant has some seating inside, but most comfortably is on their nice patio and stone terrace.
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La Terrasse Hostellerie le Baou Restaurant, Ramatuelle
Refined tastes and a panoramic view.
The semi-gourmet restaurant distinguishes itself as much for the taste of its delicious dishes as for its dream views over the upper reaches of Ramatuelle and the turquoise sea.
Nightlife in Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle comes alive in the summer months with music festivals and buskers plying the tourist trade. But if you want the nightclubs and dancing until dawn, then head down to glittering, glamorous lights of Saint Tropez.
Bars & Clubs in Ramatuelle
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Nikki Beach Beach Club
The greatest number of famous faces per square metre
Perhaps the most famous of all St Tropez beach clubs is Nikki beach. Renowned for hosting the likes of Paris Hilton, it is definitely the hip and trendy place to party on Pampelonne beach. There are famous DJs and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
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Stefano Forever Bar & Nightclub, Pampelonne
Beach club, restaurant, bar, nightclub & decadent cabaret perfomance
Located in the heart of the Bay of Pampelonne on the beach is one of the most mythical and legendary locations in the world, made popular by an international clientèle, Stefano Forever has now become an essential St Tropez rendez-vous.
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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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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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VIP Room Bar & Nightclub
Legendary dance institution that defies age & time
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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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.
Things to do in Ramatuelle
Take a drive to Cap Camarat and visit the second biggest lighthouse in France, you can also join a lovely coastal walking path to l'Escalet. There are also some great hiking trails around Massif de Maures. Afterwards, quench your thirst and sample some wine at a local vineyard. Or you can head down to nearby Pampelonne Beach to mix with the jet set in the beach clubs and restaurants and watch the yachts sail past.
Things To Do in Ramatuelle
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Tennis Club, Ramatuelle
Four artificial grass courts available for casual play & tournaments
Tennis Club located in Ramatuelle, 15-minute drive from Saint Tropez.
Watersports in Ramatuelle
Watersports in Ramatuelle
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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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Tiki Pep's Watersports, Ramatuelle
Kayaks & stand up paddleboards for rent on Pampelonne beach
Open from April to November, Tiki Pep's is located on the small Escalet port within the Kon Tiki beach club.
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European Diving School, Ramatuelle
Scuba diving lessons and trips in 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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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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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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La Moune Watersports, Gassin
Sailing school with a variety of watersports and courses on offer
La Moune is located just outside of St Tropez and allows you to enjoy a range of watersports in the bay.
Holiday Rentals in Ramatuelle
Holiday Rentals in Ramatuelle
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
6 bedroom Villa in Gassin. Sleeps 12
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
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Valderrama Villa, Gassin
4 bedroom Villa in Gassin. Sleeps 8
Located in the prestigious private Golf & Country Club estate in Gassin, come and discover this beautiful bastide in a privileged location, at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet environment without vis-à-vis.
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Loriot Villa, Ramatuelle
4 bedroom Villa in Ramatuelle. Sleeps 8
Sublime property for rent within more than a hectare of magnificent landscaped grounds in quiet surroundings. It enjoys a beautiful unobstructed view over Ramatuelle’s surrounding countryside.
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Martin Villa, Gassin
5 bedroom Villa in Gassin. Sleeps 10
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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Eldorado Villa, La Croix-Valmer
4 bedroom Villa in La Croix-Valmer. Sleeps 8
Luxurious villa for rent, with direct access to the coastal path, enjoying a panoramic and breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
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Bianca Villa, La Croix-Valmer
6 bedroom Villa in La Croix-Valmer. Sleeps 12
Situated on the heights of Gigaro in a quiet and secure area, this luxurious villa enjoys a superb sea view and a superb location at only 200m from the most beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Saint Tropez.
Hotels in Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle is renowned for its luxurious hotels and villas offering magnificent views over the Mediterranean. Most of them are located outside the village, offering privacy and wonderful sea views. La Reserve, just to the south of Ramatuelle, is one of the most exclusive.
At a lower price range you could stay in charming guesthouses that offer romantic and rustic stays in beautiful surroundings.
There is a camp site towards the southern end of Pampelonne beach, and some more on the way towards Cavalaire sur Mer.
Hotels in Ramatuelle
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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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Kube Hotel
Ultra-modern design & technological resort with well-being space
The Hotel is a design and luxury technological resort in Saint Tropez.
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La Villa Dune Hotel
Luxury villa hotel close to both the town centre & the beach
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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Chateau de la Messardiere Spa Hotel
Restored castle tucked away in magnificent grounds with sea views
The exclusive palace-style hotel is Saint Tropez' largest hotel, situated in the middle of a park with amazing scents and breath-taking views.
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La Garbine Hotel, Pampelonne
Hotel ideally located in beautiful surroundings & a relaxing atmosphere
The hotel Garbine is ideally located 600 metres from the beautiful beach of Tahiti.
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La Reserve Ramatuelle Spa Hotel, Ramatuelle
Top design luxury hotel and spa offering magnificent sea views
This hotel is perched on a hill overlooking an amazing panorama is a design hotel and spa which has recently been awarded the Palace distinction.
How to get to Ramatuelle
This very picturesque medieval village is perched on the forested hills above Saint Tropez. Bus lines 7703 (30mins) and 7705 (39mins) both run from Saint Tropez; if driving, take the D93 from Saint Tropez.
Transfers for Saint-Tropez
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Private Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable transfers from Nice Airport to Saint-Tropez
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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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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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 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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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
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
Property For Sale in Ramatuelle
Property for Sale in Ramatuelle
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Villa for Sale
6 bedroom, 6 bathroom, 387.78m² Villa in Var
Contemporary villa with exceptional views - sea and countryside - near Pampelonne and L’Escalet.
Villa for Sale
€15,900,000
