Explore the villages of the Gulf of Saint Tropez
This morning brings a day of sightseeing; the Gulf of Saint-Tropez abounds in hilltop villages, colourful markets and views – all worth seeing. With coffee gently steaming on the terrace and crispy croissants, excitement builds as you set off exploring.
Today your bags are light; sunglasses, camera, freshly filled flasks, and maybe a basket for market finds. Naturally, swimwear and sun hats are always to hand!
Barely five minute’ drive and you reach Ramatuelle, the so-called ‘snail village’ owing to its layout with winding streets. You stroll through the medieval streets, under the porches and discover the vestiges of the past.
On Thursday and Sunday mornings, you’ll arrive just in time for the market! The Place de l’Ormeau is brimming with life; lavender, goat’s cheeses, olive oil, Provençal fabric among others. Aromas, scents and colours mingle. You wander through the stalls, enjoy a few Picholine olives, leaving with a small jar of tapenade (savoury spread made with puréed olives).
You continue on the scenic trail through the historic Paillas windmills (known locally as the ‘Route des Moulins de Paillas’) heading for Gassin. On the way, you should stop to discover the old windmill, set on the highest hillside in the region.
After just 10 minutes’ drive you arrive in Gassin, one of the ‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’ heritage villages. Set on a headland, this charming little gem offers breathtaking views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
Admire the panoramic views from the orientation table, head off to explore the village following the discovery trail offered by the Gassin tourist office (Office de Tourisme). Over 1.5 kilometres have fun spotting the village’s spectacular and unusual places including the ‘narrowest street in the world’.
Head for the magnificent hilltop village of Grimaud, for a well-deserved lunch break! The restaurant you’ve booked in the heart of the village awaits you, and already the local cuisine is tickling your taste buds.
Rested and relaxed, you begin a real journey back in time during a short post-lunch walk. You head for the medieval castle to pretend you’re knights, pass the old windmill and go down by the river to enjoy the Pont des Fées (Fairies’ Bridge). At the gateway to the Massif des Maures mountains, the countryside is magnificent!
You get back on the road for the final discovery stop of the day: Port-Grimaud, 7 kilometres away. You leave the car in the large car park, and thoroughly make the most of this amazing canalside village, one of the best known in the world!
Wandering by the canals, strolling past colourful houses, do a spot of shopping or savour ice creams if you have a sweet tooth. Why not take a short electric boat trip, to discover the village’s hidden gems with a local guide?
After this you walk to the beach, for a spot of rest and relaxation by the water. How lovely to bask in the sunshine by the sea!
Once back at the campsite, your legs are a little tired, but your mind is brimming with the day’s sights and scents.
Over dinner on the terrace, comprising local produce, you share your favourite moments. You end the day with the unique impression of having glimpsed something profound; authentic Provence – intimate, sun-drenched and tremendously captivating.
