Saint-Tropez continues to uphold its reputation for charm and exclusivity. Known as the most luxurious seaside resort on the French Riviera, it still retains the character of a fishing village, with its narrow streets, local markets, and the famous Pampelonne Beach. The many yachts and sailboats docked in the harbour, beachfront lunches, and laid-back atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. Its development began in the 1950s with the film Et Dieu… créa la femme (And God Created Woman), shot on Pampelonne Beach, directed by Roger Vadim and starring Brigitte Bardot. This is also where the film crew lunched in 1955, at what is now one of the world’s most renowned beach clubs – Club 55.
What to do
Take a stroll through the historic centre of Saint-Tropez, visit the port, and enjoy a break at one of its restaurants or cafés – Sénéquier, a favourite of French presidents, is the most famous. Explore Place des Lices, the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma, and indulge in a slice of the iconic Tarte Tropézienne, a sweet brioche filled with cream and dusted with pearl sugar – the original is still made at the A. Micka pâtisserie.
Swim in crystal-clear waters at Pampelonne Beach, the most popular in the area, or set sail from the port of Saint-Tropez. For lunch, ask your skipper to stop at the Lérins Islands and dine at La Guérite on Sainte-Marguerite Island. Located in a rocky cove, this space boasts a private beach spanning 1,000 square metres and serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes created by acclaimed Greek chef Yiannis Kioroglou.
As the day ends, enjoy a cocktail at the peninsula’s most iconic beach. La Réserve à la Plage, located on Pampelonne Beach, was envisioned by Michel Reybier, founder of La Réserve establishments, and designer Philippe Starck. This destination reflects the original spirit of Saint-Tropez and features a bar, restaurant, sun loungers, and a boutique.
Where to eat
La Voile, one of the restaurants at the boutique hotel La Réserve Ramatuelle, is led by chef Eric Canino, renowned for his mastery of local ingredients and reimagining Provençal classics.
The three-Michelin-starred La Vague d’Or, located at Cheval Blanc St-Tropez, is helmed by chef Arnaud Donckele, a protégé of Michel Guérard and Alain Ducasse. Celebrated for his unique combinations and creativity, Donckele’s menus include the classic Au Fil du Temps and dishes such as turbot baked in salt, seaweed, and lime zest, or young rabbit with absinthe and smoked bacon.
Where to sleep
Just minutes from town and overlooking one of the most stunning bays, La Réserve Ramatuelle is a hidden paradise. The hotel features a refreshed interior design inspired by the Côte d’Azur’s arty chic spirit of the 1950s. Its elegant lines, light tones, raw materials, and carefully curated art pieces create a harmonious blend across its lobby, patio, and restaurant.
The Hotel Byblos and its nightclub, Les Caves du Roy, are must-visits for those seeking entertainment. Convinced by Brigitte Bardot, Lebanese businessman Jean Prosper Gay-Para opened Byblos in 1967, and it has since become synonymous with parties and a celebrated past. Interior designer Laura Gonzalez has reimagined the Signature Suites, combining vibrant colours with luxurious materials. The exclusive Byblos Spa, adorned with exotic marble and wood, works exclusively with Sisley, the luxury phyto-cosmetic brand.
Just a five-minute walk from the village centre, AREV Saint Tropez is a discreet oasis surrounded by immaculate, fragrant gardens. This new luxury hotel concept combines old-school elegance with authentic craftsmanship and glamour. With 50 rooms and suites, many featuring private gardens, it is the perfect place to embrace the iconic Saint-Tropez lifestyle.
