Beaujolais Nouveau
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.

© SeeSaintTropez.com

© SeeSaintTropez.com

© SeeSaintTropez.com

© SeeSaintTropez.com

© SeeSaintTropez.com

© SeeSaintTropez.com
Charming seaside town with wonderful areas for walking and hiking
Sheltered from the winds by hills that rise behind the coast, the popular beach resort of Sainte Maxime sits on the coast between Frejus and Saint Tropez.
In the Var, Sainte-Maxime is a pleasant example of a resort with a lively town, a busy marina and a string of fine beaches. The mild climate and the beauty of the village attracts many tourists, painters, poets and writers. The old town is filled by lively pedestrian streets, beautiful gardens and a large pier with a wonderful panorama of the Gulf.
The emphasis in this town is on today: today's sun, today's fun and perhaps more of that tomorrow. Visitors jam the roads, fill the parking lots to the last place and flock to the beaches. During sun breaks, they stroll along the many beach and sun-themed shops or flop down in one of the sidewalk cafés along the boulevard. Others venture into the older part of town which has been nicely renovated and spruced up with boutiques filled with Provençal goodies and a large choice of restaurants. The narrow, winding streets and alleys are a great way to cool off the summer heat.
The most demanding holiday makers will love the town beaches and those in the direction of Saint Tropez such as the beach of La Croisette. The most popular are located west of Sainte Maxime.
For me, the main attraction in Sainte-Maxime is the covered market that opens daily in summer and only mornings (except Monday) in winter. There you find excellent quality in local produce and products, fishmongers, bakers and flower shops. On Thursday morning there is also an open-air market.
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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.
Sainte-Maxime's history dates back to the early Middle Ages and a monastery with its name that has now disappeared. There are very few signs in town of an early history, though close to the port the Tour Carrée des Dames stands prominently. It was constructed as a defensive tower in the late Middle Ages by the monks of the islands of Lérins. Now, it functions as the museum of local tradition and history.
A very pleasant town, with a vibrant beach resort, a busy port, daily markets and a few lovely old buildings in the small historic centre. The pedestrian street is lined with bars, restaurants and boutiques, and it comes alive on summer evenings with music and a good mix of tourists and locals. Admittedly, there's not a tremendous amount to see when it comes to history or architecture, but Sainte-Maxime is above all a town to relax in, spending long days at the beach, eating at nice restaurants, wandering around the pretty port or having a cocktail at sunset looking over the Gulf of Saint Tropez.
Sainte-Maxime is more of a beach resort than a history-buff's destination, but there are a few traces of the town's medieval past, including the beautiful 15th century town hall (mairie). The Tour Carrée was built in the 16th century by monks to fend off invaders,often maruading pirates from Saint Tropez across the bay. There's also a small folk museum in the Tour Carée, as well as a battery of cannons facing the Gulf de Saint Tropez.
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.
La Chapelle de la Miséricorde, referred as the Black Penitent Brotherhood Chapel was built in the 17th century and is located Rue Gambetta, in the former quarter of the seamen's families.
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.
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.
Facing the Saint-Tropez bay, this is a truly airy park perfect for a relaxed stroll. The visitors will discover nearly sixty acclimatised plants such as centenary palm trees and many typical Mediterranean species like cypress and pine trees.
As you climb uphill past all the restaurant lined streets, you get to the impressive 17th century Citadel overlooking the village of Saint-Tropez.
Sainte-Maxime has lovely wide, white-sand beaches stretching in both directions, with lots of public space as well as private beach clubs with restaurants. The beaches of Sainte Maxime offer every watersport you could hope for, including parasailing, jet skiing, sailing and water skiing.
Sainte-Maxime is well known for its diving, with sunken submarines, yachts and torpedo boats to explore, as well as some rocky underwater topography and marine life. There are also fishing excursions off the coast.
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.
Plage des Graniers is a beautiful, small sandy bay surrounded by greenery and a few Provençal villas.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The restaurant of the Bastide de Saint-Tropez hotel is run by Sardinian chef, Alessandro Caria, and his team.
Renowned for its fine and distinguished cuisine, the talented chef creates tasty southern flavoured compositions served on the luxury terrace.
The restaurant Cucina Byblos, welcomes guests warmly to a colourful and resolutely contemporary setting, in which a relaxed atmosphere reigns supreme.
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.
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
Discover pan-Asian cuisine in all its splendour, with breathtaking views of the Pampelonne Bay.
This seaside resort has plenty of bars, a sports pub, and a few late-opening clubs in the summer, although those looking for the really glamorous clubs should head down the coast to Saint Tropez to mingle with the champagne and caviar set.
Enjoy the summer vibe in a bar in the pedestrianised street in town, have a cocktail in a beach club or hit the Casino de Barriere for a game of blackjack, roulette or poker. On summer nights there are also free music concerts in the outdoor theatre, as well as fireworks shows.
Set within the chic 5 star Byblos hotel is one of the most exclusive night spots in Saint Tropez.
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.
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.
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.
It’s the hottest bar scene in town from April through the summer. This modern and upscale restaurant attracts Cristal-chugging yacht owners and stiletto-strutting beach club models.
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.
While Saint Maxime is primarily a beach resort, there are plenty of other activities on offer. The surrounding hills are wonderful for walking, mountain-biking and horse-riding, and you can pick up the long-range hiking trail 'The Balcony of the Côte d'Azur' just 10kms north of town. There's also a coastal path for bike-riding (see our Riviera biking guide here.) Those looking for sporting activities could use the nearby tennis or golf facilities, or head to the clay pigeon shooting range just outside town.
Sainte-Maxime is also home to Aqualand, the Riviera's largest waterpark; and there's also a pleasant Botanical Garden for walking and picnics.
This area is good golfing country, and those visiting Sainte-Maxime have several golf courses to choose between. The 18-hole, par 72 course at Golf de Sainte-Maxime has wonderful views across the coast and mountains from above the town and a quite challenging, hilly course. The excellent Golfe de Beauvallon is two miles out of Sainte-Maxime very close to the sea, offering a moderate to hard 70 par, 18-hole game with stunning views of the Gulf of Saint Tropez. There is also the Golfe Club Saint Tropez a bit further afield at Gassin, a fairly exclusive place with a par 71, 18-hole course set in countryside of hills, forest, vineyards and sea. For more information, see our Golfing Pages.
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.
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Since the 17th century the 3 watermills provided flour to the people of the region. Discover this charming valley bordered by olive trees.
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.
Enjoy magnificent views of Grimaud and the surrounding hills on this short walk.
Open from May through until October you are welcome to discover scuba diving with Mio Palmo Plongée.
Ketos diving centre is located in the centre of the Sainte-Maxime harbour and offers 60 extraordinary dive sites to explore the wrecks and wonderful sites with rich littoral coral and all sorts of wildlife.
The structure of the diving centre is ideally located in the heart of the Sainte-Maxime harbour with direct access to a parking where diving gear can be dropped off.
La Moune is located just outside of St Tropez and allows you to enjoy a range of watersports in the bay.
Societe Nautique de Saint Tropez is a sailing club based in the port with over 500 members.
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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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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Luxurious villa for rent with 2 private pools in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
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Superb villa for rent with sea view in Sainte-Maxime, in the heart of the Bay of Saint-Tropez - Villa Jane
Luxurious villa for rent, with direct access to the coastal path, enjoying a panoramic and breathtaking view of the Mediterranean.
This famous hotel is ideally located in the centre of Saint Tropez, and is an invitation to pleasure, luxury and refinement.
This 3-star hotel promises you a peaceful stay. The decor is elegant, and the theme of the sea evokes a summer atmosphere.
This four star hotel is an authentic hotel situated in front of the Pampelonne bay, steps away from Tahiti beach and a few minutes away from Saint Tropez.
This five star hotel reveals itself as a heaven of peace, nestled between the city centre of Saint Tropez and the bay of Pampelonne.
Villa Marie Saint-Tropez reinvents the charm of Riviera style with its elegant suites, a restaurant of southern cuisine and a welcoming seafood bar.
The hotel is located 600 metres from the wonderful beach of Pampelonne and 4km from St Tropez and the picturesque village of Ramatuelle.
There are buses connecting Sainte Maxime with Saint Raphael, Saint Tropez and other major towns in the Var.
The closest train station is at Saint-Raphael where you can connect with the major rail line that runs along the Riviera to Italy.
Those travelling from Nice airport can take the Line 20 bus from the airport and change for Sainte-Maxime at nearby Frejus. You can also take a boat between Saint Maxime and Cannes, or Sainte Maxime and Saint Tropez.
From Nice airport to Saint-Tropez, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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.
Acarre Limousine offers transfers from the airport, train station and other taxi services whether it is from the beach or to a nightclub.
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.
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.
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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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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