
Le Challenge Interclubs Regatta, Golfe de Saint-Tropez
For four weekends throughout the year, four sailing clubs based on the Bay of Saint-Tropez compete at the Challenge Interclubs.
© SeeSaintTropez.com
© SeeSaintTropez.com
© SeeSaintTropez.com
© SeeSaintTropez.com
Stunning medieval hilltop village located right by Pampelonne beach
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.
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.
In the summer months the village of Ramatuelle hosts a world-famous jazz festival, where many big names have performed.
For four weekends throughout the year, four sailing clubs based on the Bay of Saint-Tropez compete at the Challenge Interclubs.
The Brocante (or flea market) Le Jas des Robert has become a must-see place for the bargain hunters of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez.
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
Envied by many towns, La Grande Braderie de Saint Tropez is, under any circumstances, an event not to be missed.
Between 40 to 60 yachts participate, which despite the at times variable weather conditions, is always a success.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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.
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.
This restaurant has some seating inside, but most comfortably is on their nice patio and stone 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.
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.
Listed in the Michelin guide, this restaurant is open all year round and combines regional and Mediterranean cuisine. L’Ecurie du Castellas is a guaranteed feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
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.
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.
Tennis Club located in Ramatuelle, 15-minute drive from Saint Tropez.
This loop starts at Cogolin and ends in Saint Tropez, taking in 11th century castles, villages, vineyards and beaches along the way. there are several cols to cross so try not to do this in the heat of the day!
This intermediate cycle offers a wonderful contrast of colours as you pass the reds and ochres of the Esterel rock on one side and rippling azur waters of the Mediterranean coastline on the other. A local favourite, you won't be the only one on the road if you ride during the summer or on weekends.
Discover the wild side of St Tropez with this walk around its peninsula. This path leads you through rugged coastline and across beaches of fine white sand and takes you to places that would otherwise be accessible only by boat.
Enjoy magnificent views of Grimaud and the surrounding hills on this short walk.
This historical circuit takes in many of Grimaud's historical buildings, many of which are tucked away and nestled within the old narrow streets of the village.
Since the 17th century the 3 watermills provided flour to the people of the region. Discover this charming valley bordered by olive trees.
Cap Marat diving centre is located under the Cape Camarat lighthouse and 100 metres from the famous Pampelonne beach.
Open from April to November, Tiki Pep's is located on the small Escalet port within the Kon Tiki beach club.
Excellent diving centre located in Saint Tropez offers diving in one of the most fascinating and diverse areas of Europe.
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.
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.
La Moune is located just outside of St Tropez and allows you to enjoy a range of watersports in the bay.
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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.
Villa for rent for 8 people, just minutes away from Gigaro beaches
This stunning home, just minutes from the village of Saint-Tropez and the Pampelonne beaches, can accommodate up to 8 guests and features a breathtaking panoramic sea view.
Welcome to your corner of paradise ! Nestled within a private and secure estate, this magnificent Provençal villa offers breathtaking sea views. With its 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, it is perfect for hosting your loved ones in a luxurious and warm setting.
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.
This stunning home, just minutes from the village of Saint-Tropez and the Pampelonne beaches, can accommodate up to 8 guests and features a breathtaking panoramic sea view.
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.
Villa for rent for 8 people, just minutes away from Gigaro beaches
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.
Luxurious villa for rent, with direct access to the coastal path, enjoying a panoramic and breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
Welcome to your corner of paradise ! Nestled within a private and secure estate, this magnificent Provençal villa offers breathtaking sea views. With its 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, it is perfect for hosting your loved ones in a luxurious and warm setting.
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.
The hotel is located 600 metres from the wonderful beach of Pampelonne and 4km from St Tropez and the picturesque village of Ramatuelle.
This hotel is a beautiful Provencal manor, nestled amidst an umbrella pine forest with an overwhelming view over the sea. You will appreciate the charming and attentive welcome from the owners and their attention to detail.
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.
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.
The exclusive palace-style hotel is Saint Tropez' largest hotel, situated in the middle of a park with amazing scents and breath-taking views.
Minutes from the Pamplonne beaches and the centre of Saint Tropez, discover a charming Provencal farmhouse and its stunning pools and sea views.
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.
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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.
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.
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.
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
Contemporary villa with exceptional views - sea and countryside - near Pampelonne and L’Escalet.
Magnificent renovated farm house just a few minutes from Pampelonne beach and Saint-Tropez
Find out all about what is happening in Saint-Tropez and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this glamorous Riviera town.
See allLatest News & ReviewsSaint-Tropez is well-known for its annual sailing regattas, including the Rolex Cup and the Voiles de Saint-Tropez. There are also some more traditional festivals that you can attend such as the Bravades. Musical events are mainly focused on classical and jazz music and the very popular Place des Lices market takes place every week.
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