Villages of charm
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez is not only synonymous with golden beaches, it is also home to a collection of enchanting villages which, far more than mere tourist destinations, tell the story of the timeless charm of Provence. These villages, nestled between rolling green hills and the azure sea, offer an authentic experience for those wishing to discover the true soul of the region.
Grimaud, Gassin, Ramatuelle, Sainte-Maxime and Cogolin unveil their cobbled streets, stone houses and panoramic views over the gulf. Each village has its own story to tell, with their Provençal markets, atmospheric cafés and local artisans’ studios.
Grimaud: A Journey through Time
Perched on a hill overlooking the gulf, Grimaud is a medieval village that seems to have stepped straight out of a fairytale. Its cobbled streets, houses bedecked in colourful shutters, and shady squares invite you to leisurely explore its enticing alleyways. At the very top of the village, the ruins of the Château de Grimaud offer breathtaking views over the sea and the surrounding area.
Here, every street corner uncovers a fascinating glimpse into the past, while artisan boutiques and terraced cafés add a touch of contemporary life to this historic setting.
Gassin: A Balcony Overlooking the Mediterranean
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Gassin is a veritable balcony overlooking the Mediterranean. Located just a few miles from Saint-Tropez, this hilltop village offers exceptional panoramic views over the gulf, vineyards and neighbouring hillsides.
Its narrow streets, lined with traditional stone houses and bedecked in fragrant blooms, open onto little squares offering the perfect spot to stop and savour the tranquillity of the surroundings. In the evening, the sun setting over the sea is an unforgettable spectacle, transforming the village into a truly magical destination.
Ramatuelle: Between Land and Sea
Ramatuelle, with its winding streets and friendly feel, is a village that perfectly embodies the spirit of Provence. Set high up in the hills, the village offers magnificent views of the celebrated beaches of Pampelonne and the sweeping vineyards of the surrounding area. Age-old houses with tiled roofs, stone staircases and flower-filled gardens all combine to conjure up a peaceful and unspoilt ambiance.
Ramatuelle is also renowned for its theatre and music festival, which every summer attracts artists and spectators the world over.
Sainte-Maxime: Seaside Elegance
Sainte-Maxime is an elegant seaside resort that perfectly combines Provençal charm with the vibrant atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur. Its fine sandy beaches, bustling port and old town, complete with colourful markets and stylish boutiques, all invite you to relax and explore.
Along the promenade, cafés and restaurants offer breathtaking views of the sea, while the surrounding hills, cloaked in pine and cork oak trees, entice you to set out on invigorating rambles. Sainte-Maxime is a place to truly immerse yourself in the gentle Mediterranean way of life.
Cogolin: An Authentic Art of Living
Away from the tourist hustle and bustle, Cogolin is a village where craftsmanship and tradition take pride of place. Known for its pottery, weaving and pipe-making studios, Cogolin offers an insight into local savoir-faire.
The village, with its colourful houses and quaint alleyways, is surrounded by vineyards that produce some of the region’s finest wines. To stroll through the streets of Cogolin is to discover an authentic way of life, where every last detail is a reminder of Provence’s rich cultural and artisanal heritage.
