Exploring the Golfe de St-Tropez

The Golfe of St Tropez

The Golfe de St Tropez is one of the Riviera’s best natural shelters, with St-Tropez and Ste Maxime at its mouth, the Golfe de St Tropez is not only home to one of the most famous celebrity citadels in the world it is also a peninsula boasting stunning scenery, sandy beaches and the beautiful ports of Ste Maxime, Port Grimaud and Cogolins. Historic destinations, perfect for an alternative for lunch and most definitely not to be missed!

Sainte Maxime

Sainte Maxime was founded by monks from the Iles Lérins around 1000AD and is named after one of their order, Maxime. Today it is a charming town with a bustling tourist trade in the summer, as well as all year cultural events, winding cobbled streets with evening markets and plenty of restaurants from which to enjoy some fresh sea food.

The Port of Sainte Maxime is well equipped and with regular ferry trips across the bay to the ever popular St Tropez. Sainte Maxime is ideal for an overnight visit or even just an hour perusing this must-see historic town.

Port Grimaud

Port Grimaud is perhaps the Golfe’s best kept secret. Described as the “Venice of Provence”, Port Grimaud is set apart from the main town of Grimaud which is further up the hill. It was built in 1966 by the Alsation architect François Spoerry and is a master example of an architectural union and harmony created with the sea.

Inspired by lagoons, the Port boasts over 12km of quays, 7km of canals and plenty of space for those all-important luxury yachts of the Riviera. Port Grimaud is really not to be missed on any day out in the Golfe.

Cogolin

Set at the foot of the Maure Hills, Cogolin is a beautiful harbour protected by the bay of St Tropez. Its winding streets and Medieval Chateau and fortifications give Cogolin a truly authentic feel compared to the glitz and glam of neighbouring St Tropez. The town of Cogolin is well known as a centre of manufacturing, including carpet, reed and wind instruments! However, one major advantage of Cogolin is its two marinas, Port Cogolin and Les Marins de Cogolin. This town is a delightful addition to what is a truly remarkable area!

The picturesque and varied ports of the Golfe of St Tropez ensure that any charterer in this famous international playground will always find something to suit any itinerary! Come and see for yourself!