Famous for being a favourite haunt of none other than Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, Saint-Tropez continues to attract many members of today’s showbiz elite. It’s popular for a reason and indeed, it is the perfect place to soak up your own little slice of French Riviera life and is a popular fixture on a number of luxury Mediterranean cruises. As you would imagine, there’s a great choice of beaches to relax on but this pretty provincial town features a number of historical attractions which help to tell its story, too.
Saint Tropez takes its name from the martyr Saint Torpes, whose remains, after being set out to sea in a boat, landed at the location where the town now stands. Like many key strategic European coastal areas it was occupied by the Romans but after the fall of the Roman Empire, it fell into the hands of an Arabic-Muslim colony. In 976, William I, Count of Provence, initiated attacks on the occupying Muslims and Count Rene’s 1436 attempted repopulation of the region by the shipping-in of wealthy families and Baron of Grimaud Jean de Cossa’s building of city walls contributed to it becoming its own republic. This meant it had its own fleet and army which helped it to drive away a number of would-be nautical attackers throughout its history. Saint Tropez’s reputation as a go-to glamour destination began in the 1920s when it began to attract leading figures from the fashion world, such as Cocoa Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli. The 1950s saw this reputation cemented when the town became the location for a number of films, most notably And God Created Woman, which of course starred Brigitte Bardot.
Plage de Pampelonne
Why?
Because it makes for the quintessential Saint Tropez beach experience and is the perfect place to soak up the town’s famous ambience.
What will I see?
Obviously plenty of sand, crystal-clear waters and some beautiful views, too. It’s the premier celebrity hang-out as well, so there’s plenty of chance to indulge in a bit of star-spotting as you soak up some rays and relax with a cocktail.
St Tropez Harbour
Why?
It’s the best place to see how the rich and famous like to spend some of their money.
What will I see?
With luxury yachts and boats going in and out of the harbour all day long, butlers serving those on-board with multi-course meals and plenty of photo opportunities, this is one the most glamorous locations in the town. Again, there’s a chance to indulge in some celebrity spotting, as you never known who might be arriving in town for the day.
Zitadelle von St Tropez
Why?
Because it offers an informative look at the town’s history and some great views of it too.
What will I see?
Plenty of information, in the form of plaques, which tell the story of the citadel’s role in the town’s history. If you’re a fan of fortifications generally, it makes for a satisfying visit from an architectural viewpoint and owing to its lofty location, there are some good photo opportunities to take advantage of while you’re up there.
Eglise Notre-Dame de L’Assomption
Why?
Because it’s a beautiful little church which offers a contrasting respite from all the glamour.
What will I see?
The Church of Saint Tropez is an attractive baroque church which dates back to 1784. Tucked away in the town’s streets, it’s off the well-trodden tourist path and is the ideal place for a little cultural and perhaps spiritual enlightenment during your stay. Just look for the colourful bell tower, eye-catchingly painted in ochre and sienna. There’s a bust of the town’s saint inside too.
Cap Taillat
Why?
This area offers a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty away from the tourist hubbub.
What will I see?
All the beach beauty you’d expect but in a natural and unspoiled setting. There are no high end bars and restaurants or bikini shops here, just some of the most beautiful views to be found on the whole of the French Riviera. It’s a bit of a hike from the town itself, so perhaps it more suited if you’ve a little longer in San Tropez or have experienced the tourist areas before.
Something a little different…
St Tropez Polo Club
What better way to experience one of the classic pastimes of the wealthy than with a visit to a polo club in one of the world’s most glamorous locations? As you would imagine, the atmosphere is incredible and you’ll be able to dine on some delicious and quite reasonably-priced dishes as you take in all the excitement of a polo game or two.
By Simon Brotherton
Google