Over the past few months, we’ve explored the eastern side of the French Riviera—from Monaco and its neighbouring towns to the elegance of Cap d’Ail, Èze, Beausoleil and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.
Now it’s time to journey west, where the Riviera takes on a completely different character.
Our next stop is the legendary Saint-Tropez and the beautiful Gulf that surrounds it—a place where Provençal charm, sandy beaches, vineyards and an unmistakable art of living have captivated visitors and residents for generations.
In the coming editions, we’ll continue our journey back along the coast, discovering the remarkable towns and villages that connect Saint-Tropez to Cannes. Each has its own history, personality and lifestyle, and together they tell the story of one of the world’s most extraordinary coastlines.
I hope you’ll join me as we continue exploring the French Riviera—one destination at a time.
Saint-Tropez: Where the Riviera Changes Pace
Having lived on the French Riviera for more than forty years, I have always felt there is a distinct difference between the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var.
The Alpes-Maritimes is refined, cosmopolitan and energetic. It is home to Cannes, Antibes, Nice and Monaco, where business, culture and international influences meet against a Mediterranean backdrop.
The Var tells a different story.
The landscapes become wilder. Vineyards replace city streets. Umbrella pines stretch toward sandy beaches. Life slows down and feels more connected to nature and tradition.
For me, one of the most charming ways to arrive in Saint-Tropez has always been to leave the car in Sainte-Maxime and take the ferry across the Gulf. As the boat approaches the harbour, the pastel-coloured façades, fishing boats and iconic bell tower gradually come into view. There is something magical about arriving by sea, just as visitors have done for centuries.
In fact, this very route is part of the daily landscape surrounding Carlton International’s Saint-Tropez office, ideally located in the heart of the port.
Long before the yachts and international acclaim, Saint-Tropez was a working fishing village. Yet despite its fame, traces of that authentic spirit remain remarkably intact.
Nowhere is this more evident than on the famous Place des Lices.
Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, one of Provence’s most celebrated markets transforms the square into a vibrant gathering place filled with local produce, flowers, antiques and artisan goods. Beneath the shade of the century-old plane trees, the tradition of pétanque continues much as it always has. It is one of the rare places where lifelong residents, fishermen, artists, entrepreneurs and international visitors naturally mingle together.
Saint-Tropez entered popular culture in the 1950s when Brigitte Bardot arrived to film “And God Created Woman,” forever changing the destiny of the village. Soon afterwards, Saint-Tropez became a favourite gathering place for personalities including Jean-Paul Belmondo, Louis de Funès, Eddy Mitchell and Eddie Barclay. Their presence helped create the mythology that still surrounds the village today.
Yet Saint-Tropez is far more than celebrity glamour.
Residents are drawn by an exceptional lifestyle. The legendary beaches of Pampelonne, hidden coastal paths, world-class sailing, renowned vineyards and spectacular natural landscapes offer a quality of life that few destinations can rival.
Each autumn, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez transforms the bay into one of the most beautiful sailing spectacles in the Mediterranean, bringing together magnificent classic and modern yachts from around the world.
For golf enthusiasts, several prestigious courses are located throughout the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Wine lovers can explore some of Provence’s most respected estates, while food lovers enjoy everything from authentic waterfront restaurants to internationally acclaimed dining destinations.
Families increasingly choose the region not only for its beauty but also for its year-round infrastructure. International schools, bilingual education, quality healthcare and excellent transport links allow many owners to enjoy Saint-Tropez as a primary residence rather than simply a holiday destination.
Today, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez encompasses a collection of highly desirable communities including Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle, Gassin, Grimaud, Port Grimaud and Cogolin. Each offers its own distinct character while sharing the same exceptional Mediterranean lifestyle.
The real estate market reflects this enduring appeal. Buyers from across Europe, North America and the Middle East are attracted by a rare combination of authenticity, privacy, natural beauty and international prestige. Demand remains particularly strong for waterfront properties, vineyard estates, village houses and contemporary villas with panoramic sea views.
What makes Saint-Tropez truly unique is that despite its worldwide reputation, it has never entirely forgotten its roots.
Behind the luxury boutiques, beach clubs and superyachts remains a village where market days still matter, where pétanque is played beneath the plane trees, and where the simple pleasures of Mediterranean living continue to define everyday life.
For many, Saint-Tropez is a destination.
For those fortunate enough to live here, it is a way of life.
Carlton International Local Insight: Living Around the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
While Saint-Tropez remains the internationally recognised heart of the region, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is made up of several distinct communities, each offering its own lifestyle, atmosphere and real estate opportunities.
Saint-Tropez
The legendary village itself continues to attract discerning buyers seeking prestige, convenience and the unique energy that has made Saint-Tropez famous worldwide. Properties range from charming village houses tucked away in historic lanes to exceptional waterfront villas and contemporary estates. Owners enjoy immediate access to the harbour, restaurants, boutiques, cultural events and the vibrant year-round life of the village.
Ramatuelle
Surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, Ramatuelle offers a more discreet and natural setting while remaining moments from the beaches of Pampelonne and Saint-Tropez. Buyers are drawn to its privacy, Provençal charm and expansive estates, often set within large landscaped grounds with sweeping views of the countryside and sea.
Gassin
Perched high above the Gulf, Gassin is one of the most beautiful hilltop villages in France. Residents enjoy spectacular panoramic views stretching across the bay toward Saint-Tropez. The village combines historic charm with tranquillity, making it particularly attractive to those seeking privacy without sacrificing proximity to the coast.
Grimaud
Grimaud offers a wonderful balance between Provençal authenticity and modern convenience. Its medieval village, castle ruins and surrounding countryside create an atmosphere that feels distinctly Provençal. Families are often drawn to Grimaud for its year-round community, generous properties and easy access to schools, golf courses and local amenities.
Port Grimaud
Often referred to as the “Venice of Provence,” Port Grimaud is a unique waterfront community where many homes enjoy private moorings directly outside their door. It appeals particularly to boating enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed waterside lifestyle within a secure and beautifully maintained environment.
Cogolin
Located at the gateway to the Gulf, Cogolin offers a more traditional Provençal atmosphere while benefiting from close proximity to Saint-Tropez and the coastline. The area provides a diverse range of properties and has become increasingly attractive to buyers seeking value, authenticity and year-round living.
Discover exceptional properties throughout the Gulf of Saint-Tropez with Carlton International.
Explore our exclusive collection of luxury homes, villas and estates on the French Riviera.
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