Originally a quiet fishing settlement, Saint Tropez rose to global prominence after it became associated with the world-renowned French actress Brigitte Bardot, who moved to the area in 1958. The resort, which benefits from an average of more than 2,700 sunshine hours each year, was already home to several grand villas by the Roman period, and was, for many centuries, a strategic military defence. Today, it forms part of the French Riviera, which extend more than 100km northeastwards to the picturesque coastal town of Menton near the Italian border.
Places of interest
You might want to visit La Maison de Papillons, which provides a fascinating insight into the world of exotic butterflies and showcases many international specimens. Meanwhile, in the historic citadel (Montée de la Citadelle), the Maritime Museum explores the profound maritime history of the French Riviera and is open to the public regularly.
The Musée de l'Annonciade, an acclaimed boutique art museum, exhibits many remarkable paintings of the Saint Tropez and the rest of the Cote d'Azur from celebrated artists such as Matisse and Bonnard. Another site worth visiting is the Eglise Notre Dame de l'Assomptions, which was designed in the distinctive Baroque style and contains the bus of the saint who founded Saint Tropez, St Torpes.
Beaches – suggestions
The largest and most famous beach in Saint Tropez is the Pampelonne beach, which has been the place to be seen since the mid-20th century and is a great location for celebrity spotting. The Plage des Salins is another scenic stretch of sand that is relatively secluded and can be reached via the Sentier du Littoral walk, while the Plage de la Bouillabaisse offers superb panoramic views of the Maures mountains. There are several other smaller north-facing coves in Saint Tropez, although these can become rather busy during the summer.
Where to dine in Saint Tropez
Thanks to its cosmopolitan atmosphere, Saint Tropez has a diverse restaurant scene with a wide variety of cuisines to suit different tastes. For some outstanding French cuisine, try Restaurant Le G', Au Vieux Gassin or Le Pescadou, or choose Saveur Sincres for other delightful, refined Mediterranean recipes. For some fabulous Moroccan flavours, head to L'Adresse Marocaine, or choose Gandhi for some divine Indian cuisine.
Hotel ideas
There's no shortage of glamorous Saint Tropez hotels, but if you're looking for somewhere with extraordinary sea views and deluxe amenities, you could book a stay at the Villa Belrose Hotel. Another venue offering world-class hospitality includes the Chateau De La Messardiere, while the Hotel La Residence de la Pinede and Hotel Sezz Saint Tropez are other excellent options.
