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A family guide to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: kid-friendly activities

The Gulf of Saint-Tropez, an iconic destination on the French Riviera, is perfect for a family vacation. With its stunning beaches, amusement parks, and a variety of both water and land activities, this region has something to delight everyone in the family, from the little ones to the teenagers.

Water Activities

The beaches of Saint-Tropez are perfect for water sports. You can try parasailing for a panoramic view of the coast or go for activities like seabobbing and paddleboarding.

Copyright Water Toys. 119 passage du Port in Saint-Tropez.

Pedal boat rides are also very popular, allowing families to enjoy the sea in a fun and safe way.

The little ones will also have a blast spending the day at the beach building sandcastles. Check out this list of Grimaud beaches and this article on the legendary beaches of Saint-Tropez.

Many of our houses feature a lovely swimming pool. Vacations are the perfect time to teach young ones how to swim. The Saint-Tropez Tourism website offers private swimming lessons at your accommodation. You can also request contact information for certified lifeguards when you make your reservation with Boutemy Real Estate.

For a more educational experience, join the « Les pieds dans l’eau » activity at the Domaine du Rayol, available for children aged four and up. This activity allows kids to explore the coastline and marine environment while having fun. There’s no need to know how to swim to enjoy this experience.

Copyright Domaine du Rayol, AT (61)

Parks and Tree Climbing / « Accrobranche »

Azur Park

Azur Park in Gassin, Copyright Azur Park

Azur Park is a family-friendly amusement park that offers 35 unique rides along with a mini-golf course. Children of all ages will find activities suited to their tastes and can spend a day full of adventures. On their website, you can find pass cards offering discounts for all ages.

Grimaud Aventure

Trail for our littles ones at Grimaud Aventure. Copyright Grimaud Aventure

For those seeking a bit more action, adventure parks in the region, especially in Grimaud, offer treetop adventure courses tailored for children aged 3 to 10. These parks feature balance challenges, zip lines, and other exciting outdoor activities that allow children to safely burn off energy.

Explore Nature

Port Grimaud

Our village is an ideal destination for family vacations. You can rent license-free electric boats to explore the village canals or go for a bike ride. The picturesque views and tranquil atmosphere of Port Grimaud make it a perfect place for a memorable family stay.

The water shuttles (« les coches d’eau »), electric boats for exploring the canals of Port Grimaud.

Picnics and Hiking

The shores of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez are perfect for family picnics. While some areas prohibit fishing and swimming, they provide magnificent landscapes for rejuvenating in nature. The region also offers hiking trails suitable for children, allowing them to discover local wildlife and flora.

Family-Friendly Accommodation

Copyright Boutemy

When vacationing with children, staying in a hotel can be challenging. Parents need amenities for cooking, and teenagers need space to unwind. Renting a house meets all these criteria. When you book with us, feel free to let us know your needs. We can provide baby cribs, car seats, bottle warmers, and more. Let us take care of the logistics so you can enjoy your vacation.

Have you already booked your summer holidays in Port Grimaud?

Some might find it hard to believe after a seemingly endless cold and gray spring, but summer will be here in a week and the long vacation season is less than a month away.

Have you already booked your holiday?

If you haven’t yet, don’t worry. We publish new properties every week, and they are available for rental this summer.

House for rent on our website

Which house or apartment will you rent this summer?

When choosing your holiday rental, you have two options:

  • You can search independently via our Rentals tab.
  • You can request to speak with Latifa. She manages rentals at Boutemy Immobilier and will be happy to assist you in your search.

First, search based on the number of people in your group and your desired vacation dates. During the summer, bookings are made exclusively from Saturday to Saturday, with a minimum duration of one week.

A selection of properties will then be suggested to you, along with a price range. If price is your main criterion, we recommend sorting by « price ascending » in the dropdown menu.

Alternatively, you can quickly make a selection using the icons under each photo. At a glance, you can determine if the property has its own mooring (anchor icon), the number of people it can accommodate, the number of bedrooms, and the number of bathrooms.

House with mooring that can accomodate up to 6 people. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms.

Learn More About Our Rental Properties

Once you’ve applied your initial filter, we invite you to click on the thumbnail of any property that interests you.

Here, you’ll find a selection of photos, the number of beds, and the size of the mooring if there is one.

An exhaustive list of amenities is also provided so you can best prepare for your arrival. We generally strive to convince property owners to provide as many amenities as possible to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.

The displayed rate includes the rental price, a €25 booking fee, the tourist tax calculated based on the number of nights and adults in the property, and optional cleaning fees.

New for 2024: Linens Included
For all bookings finalized and paid at least 7 days before arrival, bed linens and towels are included in all our rentals.

A Tip for Scoring Great Prices

Since the region is highly sought after during the summer, our rental prices naturally increase in July and August.

But here’s a little secret: during the last week of August, from Saturday, August 24 to Saturday, August 31, prices drop dramatically.

It’s a perfect week to enjoy the beauty of our region before the busy season kicks in again. So treat yourself and take advantage of this opportunity!

What kind of investor are you ?

There are two main types of investors: wealth preservers and profit seekers.

It’s common for your investment profile to change as you age and as your goals evolve.

Let’s delve into these two profiles and see how both strategies can help you achieve your wealth-building objectives.

1. Wealth preservers

Wealth preservers prioritize securing their investments. They typically invest in major cities or in areas with very high real estate prices, like the coastal villages of the French Riviera, for instance.

This sense of security is backed by two factors: high rental demand in these cities, ensuring that investors can easily find tenants.
Additionally, the properties are easy to sell because of high demand.

In these prime locations, characterized by high real estate prices, population growth, and undeniable attractiveness within France, it’s wise to focus on two types of areas:

Either prime locations, often historic city centers, or up-and-coming neighborhoods. Several factors can help determine if a neighborhood will increase in value:

  • The arrival or improvement of public transportation (metros, trams, buses)
  • Projects to renovate old buildings aimed at revitalizing a neighborhood
  • The construction of new housing, offices, or commercial zones
  • Proximity to good schools, hospitals, and public parks
  • The presence of local shops, restaurants, and leisure spots
  • The establishment of new businesses

Investing in such areas can yield net returns between 2% and 5%.

This means you might not achieve self-financing, especially with borrowing rates around 4% for a 20-year loan.

You will therefore need to either make a substantial down payment or use your savings each month to cover the loan payments.

However, based on the real estate price trends over the past two decades, it’s reasonable to expect that your property will appreciate by 3% to 10% annually, ensuring you a nice capital gain upon resale.

2. Immediate profit seekers

Profit seekers typically aim for self-financing with minimal down payment (between 0% and 10%), aiming for a net return of at least 7% to 8% in the current market.

Unlike wealth preservers, the primary criterion here is not location but the rental yield of the property.

To achieve such returns, one must move away from major cities and focus on two types of properties: small units (studios, one-bedroom apartments) or multi-unit buildings.

These properties often require significant renovations, especially to improve energy efficiency. With the gradual ban on renting energy-inefficient homes, these properties are often undervalued and can be negotiated at a better price.

With an attractive purchase price, it becomes easier to achieve a good rental yield once the renovations are completed.

To achieve returns above 8%, maximizing the property’s use is also an option. Co-living arrangements or short-term rentals are two ways to achieve this, although they are more time-consuming than traditional rentals.

These investments have the advantage of being accessible with small amounts, generating rents that cover all financial and operational costs of the property, and potentially allowing for quicker successive investments.

However, the investor faces more uncertainty regarding property appreciation in these areas, and the properties are less liquid, meaning it might take longer to sell them.

So, what type of investor are you?

If you own a secondary home in Port Grimaud, you are undeniably a wealth preserver. However, you can easily boost your investment’s yield by renting it out to vacationers when you’re not using it. To avoid any hassle or time-consuming management, we can handle rental management for you. Feel free to reach out to Latifa, our rental manager.

Events and things to do in Grimaud in June 2024

From May 31st to June 2nd : La Régate du Froid

Grimaud city trophy. Copyright Cyril Carpentier

From May 31st to June 2nd: 12th Annual Children’s Book Fair

Copyright Salon du livre de Grimaud

To promote reading, authors and illustrators will be signing books for three days.

Don’t miss this must-attend event!

Friday, June 7: Grimaud Musical Evenings, featuring Philippe Lefebvre

Copyright Philippe Lefebvre

Philippe Lefebvre discovered the organ at age 15 in the choir loft of Notre-Dame de Paris, where he met Pierre Cochereau. At 19, he became the organist of Arras Cathedral and received the Vocation Foundation Award. In 1973, he won the grand prize for improvisation at the international competition in Chartres and became the organist of that prestigious cathedral. In 1985, he was appointed organist of Notre-Dame de Paris alongside Olivier Latry and Jean-Pierre Leguay. He has since performed concerts and master classes worldwide and produced numerous recordings.

Lefebvre served as the director of the Lille Conservatory from 1980 to 2003, led the choir school of Notre-Dame de Paris, and later became the director of services at the cathedral. He taught improvisation at the Paris Conservatoire (CNSM) until 2014. He is a qualified member of the Ministry of Culture’s commissions for organ restoration and construction and a member of the superior commission of Historical Monuments. Philippe Lefebvre also presides over the Association of the Great Organs of Chartres and the national association Orgue en France.

Saint-Michel Church at 9:00 PM. Full price: 25 euros.

The Grimaud Musical Evenings are honored to welcome this exceptional figure to the Quoirin organ of Saint-Michel Church. Philippe Lefebvre is one of the most representative performers and improvisers of the French art.

Sunday, June 9: International Archives Day

Copyright Freepik

Exhibition of municipal archives at the Heritage Museum, showcasing the history of Grimaud in bygone days.

« Archives represent an unparalleled wealth. They are the documentary products of human activity and, as such, constitute irreplaceable testimonies of past events. They ensure the democratic functioning of societies, the identity of individuals and communities, and the defense of human rights. » (International Council on Archives).

Free admission all day at the Heritage Museum (= Musée du Patrimoine).

Sunday, June 9: Pétanque Tournament

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Let’s meet at the boulodrome du pont des Fées at 9:30 AM for this boules competition.

3 players per team Prize: €750 + contributions Registration at 9:30 AM & draw at 10 AM. Limited to 68 teams.

Refreshments and grilled food available on site.

Friday, June 14: History Week

Lecture by Annick Cojean, Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

As part of History Week, Annick Cojean, a senior reporter at Le Monde, will give a lecture on the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. This will be followed by a book signing session for her work « Nous y étions » (Grasset 2024), where 18 veterans recount the events of D-Day hour by hour.

Location: Notre-Dame de la Queste Chapel Park Time: 7:00 PM.
Admission is free.

Friday, June 21: Music Festival

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Since 1982, every June 21st has been synonymous with celebration in France – and now in over a hundred countries worldwide – and Grimaud naturally joins in the festivities!

For the fourth consecutive year, Grimaud’s Music Festival will pulsate to the rhythms of the Grimaldines, starting at 9:00 PM at Grimaud Castle with a concert by the ABI Afrobeat group.

Get ready to dance to traditional rhythms from West Africa, jazz, and funk, promising lively and captivating music. During the intermission, discover the lineup for the 21st Grimaldines Festival.

Tickets available at a preferential rate on site. Drinks available (no food service).

Sunday, June 23: The St. John’s Day Bonfires

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

The procession will start from the town hall square at 6:00 PM, carrying the flame to the Chapel of Our Lady of La Queste, where Mass will be celebrated at 7:30 PM.

This ceremony will include the blessing of the bundles of sticks and lighting the St. John’s bonfire. The evening of Provençal festivities will conclude with a « sardinade, » a traditional Mediterranean sardine dish, offered to all residents of Grimaud by the town hall.

Participation in the meal is reserved for Grimaud residents and requires mandatory registration with proof of residency. Registration is mandatory.

Friday, June 28: Jazz Night

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

A tribute to the great American crooners, guaranteed to please and captivate an audience of jazz aficionados.

With his band, Gabriel Marin will bring to life the greatest voices of swing.

Food and drinks will be available at the Chapel of Our Lady of La Queste. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the concert will move to Arthur Bauchet Hall at the Blaquières Sports Complex. The event starts at 7:00 PM, and admission is free.

Saturday, June 29: Escandihado Show

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Celebrating 60 years of Escandihado and honoring its founding president, André Decuers, over 50 dancers, singers, and musicians will perform at the Château de Grimaud. Enjoy an evening rich in tradition and Provençal culture.

The show is free and begins at 9:00 PM.

Sunday, June 30: Grimaud Mill Festival

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

A delightful celebration alongside our beautiful and peaceful windmill: demonstrations, folk dances, a mini-farm, pony rides, carriage rides… A wonderful day for the whole family!

The festivities center around the Saint-Roch Windmill. In the morning, discover the mill’s history and observe traditional wheat threshing techniques. Enjoy freshly baked bread from the Escolo deï Sambro, who will animate the morning.

This event also offers insights into the workings of windmills and watermills with tour guides. The small Saint-Roch chapel will be open for visits. Watch folk dances by Escandihado and the Tambourinaires de Provence.

  • Wheat threshing demonstration, bread baking, and tasting
  • Tours of the Saint-Roch Windmill
  • Aperitif

Markets

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The markets are a must-visit in Provence.

Join us at the Provencal market in Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the church square.

Every Thursday and Sunday morning: Market in Port Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Let’s meet at the Market Square in Port Grimaud I on Thursdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Monday, June 10: Artisanal Market in Port Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

During the Plein V’ARTS events, all artisans are authentic and accomplished creators or promising talents, working with various materials such as wood, iron, clay, leather, glass, fabric, and other composite materials. They craft their products in their workshops across France and sell them directly.

From 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Artisans Square.

Source : Grimaud Tourisme

Events and things to do in Grimaud in May 2024

Wednesday, May 1st: Grimaud City Golf Trophy

Golf Beauvallon – Copyright Guillaume Voiturier

Every year, on May 1st, the Grimaud City Golf Trophy takes place for a day filled with swings.

The trophy will be held at the two golf courses in the municipality: Golf Up and Golf de Beauvallon.

The competition is open to all golfers, with external players and non-members welcome. Players must register at both golf courses.

Numerous prizes offered by Grimaud merchants. Prize giving followed by a cocktail at Golf Up. Organized by Golf Up and Beauvallon Golf Club.

Wednesday, May 1st: Escandihado’s anniversary

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

The Escandihado celebrates its 60th anniversary with a grand procession throughout the village, starting from the rue des anciennes écoles at 9:00 a.m. A mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a dance performance at 11:00 a.m. on Place Vieille, in commemoration of the founding president, André Decuers.

Established in 1964 by André Decuers, this association continues to perpetuate Provençal traditions over the years through numerous events in Grimaud (such as the Wool Fair, Mill Festival, and Saint-Michel Festival), as well as in neighboring communities.

Organized by the Escandihado association.

Friday, May 3rd: Soul & Funk Concert at Domaine du Val de Gilly

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Join WONDERSOUL in concert on Friday, May 3rd, 2024, starting at 7:00 PM at Domaine du Val de Gilly for a Soul & Funk evening.

Bar and food available on-site.

May 4th and 5th: the Port Grimaud 100-mile race

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Come and watch the bows crossing at this regatta, which counts towards the UNCL crew, double, and solo championship.

And as always, OSIRIS crews are welcome. New courses will be presented to best adapt to the weather conditions. A crew evening will take place on Friday night.

Tuesday, May 7th: Excursion to Mount Faron

Copyright Office du Tourisme de Toulon

The excursion to Mount Faron will depart from Les Blaquières at 8:30 a.m. In Toulon, you will take the cable car at 10:30 a.m. to enjoy the panoramic view. You will descend back down, still using the cable car, for lunch at the port of Toulon. At 3:00 p.m., you will have a guided boat tour of the Toulon harbor by ‘Les Bateliers de la Rade.’ This sea trip is scheduled to last one hour, before returning to Grimaud.

Organized by Grimaud Europe. Single rate of €53. Reservations available at the Tourist Office.

Wednesday, May 8th: Commemoration of May 8th, 1945

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Councilor Alain Benedetto, Mayor of Grimaud, extends a heartfelt invitation to join him on this day of remembrance at 9:15 a.m. on the Town Hall Square, followed by a gathering at the Church Square, as we honor the end of World War II and pay tribute to its valiant soldiers.

Thursday, May 9th: Wool Fair

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

The most traditional of Grimaud’s festival will take place on Ascension Thursday as every year!

On the agenda for this bucolic day is a 100% artisanal market focusing on wool and textiles (a new addition for 2024), all around Place Neuve: colors, materials, and originalities await discovery at the stands of our 20 exhibitors for the delight of all!

In parallel, a grand transhumance with over 60 animals will traverse the village (new for 2024)! Starting from the castle parking lot, goats and sheep will parade past the Town Hall and through Templars’ Street to reach Place Neuve… A morning rendezvous not to be missed!

And to welcome our sheep and all their friends, a giant 1500m² farm will be set up in the village, with over 100 animals roaming freely amidst our visitors: goats, ponies, donkeys (and foals!), llamas, buffaloes, pigs, chickens, guinea fowl, ducks, geese, rabbits, ferrets… farm animals will have no secrets!

Moreover, sheep shearing and wool sorting demonstrations will take place throughout the day…

On-site, amidst the animals, the Culture & Heritage team from the Town Hall will present its exhibition on the history of the Wool Fair in our village: why this celebration, since when, who participated…?

To discover this famous wool, the star of the day, workshops will be offered continuously throughout the day for both young and old: introduction to weaving and felting, creation of wool garlands, discovery of carding, … by Ferme du Lambert and the Textile Fiber Association. Our visitors can thus leave with a souvenir, created by their own hands!

And for the little ones, how about a pony ride in Grimaud? Or a challenge with mom and dad on giant wooden games? Or even better, the discovery of our treasure hunt throughout the village…

As is customary each year, the Provençal folk group, l’Escandihado, will entertain with several parades and a dancing spectacle under the village kiosk, in true tradition! Speaking of Provence, this year we will offer discovery workshops of the Provencal language, in small groups under the village kiosk, with the association ‘Je Parle Provençal’ (new for 2024).

Finally, if hunger strikes during the day, a gourmet corner will delight everyone at the top of Place Neuve, with several choices of takeaway dishes!

Speaking of appetites, an aperitif will be offered to everyone at 12:30 p.m.!

To discover all these activities, and many more, join us on Thursday, May 9th, at Place Neuve in Grimaud village, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.!

Saturday, May 18th: Olive Growing Conference

Olive grower André Lanza will share insights into his profession during this conference.

As a producer of olive oil, André Lanza invites you to explore the fragrant aroma of local olives.

Organized by the Culture and Heritage Department on May 18th at 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, May 18th: Mayor’s 2nd Petanque Prize

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Let’s meet at the Pont des Fées boules court for this petanque competition.

3 x 3 format Prize: €750 + entry fees.
Registration at 9:30 AM & draw at 10:00 AM.
Limited to 68 teams
Beverages & grilled food available on-site.

Saturday May 18th: Mauboussin Golf Up

Copyright Golf Up

For the third consecutive year, come and participate in the Mauboussin Golf Cup, organized in partnership with the MAUBOUSSIN boutique, located at 23 rue du Général Allard in Saint-Tropez, on Saturday, May 18th, starting at 1:30 PM!

At the end of the competition, the winners will receive prestigious prizes generously provided by the famous jewelry brand!

Like all GOLF UP recreational competitions, the MAUBOUSSIN Golf Cup is open to everyone, beginners and experienced players.

Schedule:

  • 1:30 PM: Player registration and briefing.
  • 2:00 PM: Start of the first shotgun, game format: simple strokeplay.
  • 3:00 PM: Players return.
  • 3:30 PM: Player registration and briefing.
  • 4:00 PM: Start of the second shotgun, game format: simple strokeplay.
  • 5:00 PM: Players return.
  • 5:30 PM: Prize giving ceremony with a magnificent buffet prepared by La Table des Oliviers.

Prizes to be won: Men’s and women’s categories: perfumes, Champagne, scented candles & 3 invitations for the Mauboussin competition at Golf de Beauvallon on Saturday, June 1st, 2024. A junior prize.

2 diamonds of 0.10 carats each to be drawn.

Saturday, May 18th: European Night of Museums

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

20th edition of this essential cultural event at the Heritage Museum.

While France is now the beating heart of the European Night of Museums, it’s worth noting that the first event of its kind took place in Germany. In 1997, in Berlin, on the aptly named Museum Island, the Lange Nacht der Museen, the long night of museums, took place. The echo and success of this event were such that the French Ministry of Culture wanted to replicate the event in 1999 under the name « Printemps des musées » (Spring of Museums). French museums were invited to open their doors to the public for free on a spring Sunday.

Again, success and the public were there, and in 2001, no less than 39 countries hosted the Spring of Museums. With the support of the Council of Europe, the event took on a European dimension that it would not lose. Finally, in 2005, France declined this cultural event into a Night of Museums to attract new audiences to these places of arts and knowledge. Faced with the originality of the approach, its artistic rigor, and the popular enthusiasm it aroused, many countries on the continent followed France.

So, is the European Night of Museums only a European phenomenon? That would be too short! If the event takes place in mid-May, it’s not by chance but because the International Museum Day organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) takes place (almost) at the same time.

On the program:

  • Exhibition of photographs by Natalie FISCHER.
  • Conference on olive growing by André LANZA at 7 p.m. An opportunity for this olive oil producer to invite you to discover the fragrant aroma of local olives.

Friday, May 24th: Musical Evenings of Grimaud, Jean-Marc Luisada

Copyright Jean-Marc Luisada


Winner of the Dino Ciani Competition (1983) and the prestigious Chopin Competition in Warsaw (1985), Jean-Marc Luisada has led an extraordinary career as a concert pianist for over 30 years, performing in renowned venues worldwide.

In this recital, Jean-Marc Luisada pays tribute to various influences. He honors the music that has shaped his life, the cinema that has filled it, and, on a more personal and profound level, his parents, who instilled in him a love for both cinema and music.

The rich repertoire of classical music has often been utilized by cinema as a precious material for emotional construction. Renowned filmmakers such as Visconti, Louis Malle, Bergman, Woody Allen, among others, have skillfully underscored the drama of a scene or the beauty of an emotion through music.

This concert is not solely dedicated to film music but rather evokes the world of cinema, demonstrating how certain works from the repertoire we cherish have crystallized in our memory alongside images from the greatest films.

Location: Saint-Michel Church at 9:00 PM. Full price ticket: €25.

Markets

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Farmer’s markets are a must-see in Provence.

Discover the Provencal market of Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the church square.

Every Thursday and Sunday mornings: Market in Port Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Let’s meet at the Market Square in Port Grimaud I every Thursday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Monday, May 6th, and Saturday, May 11th: Artisan/Craftsmen Market in Port Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

During the Plein V’ARTS events, all craft exhibitors are authentic and established or promising creators in various materials such as wood, iron, clay, leather, glass, fabric, or any other composite material. They craft their products in their workshop, within the hexagon, and personally sell them.

From 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at the Artisans Square.

Explore the village of Grimaud with our orientation trail

All year round, Grimaud gives you the opportunity to explore 4 circuits to discover the village.

Whether it’s the Initiation, Castle, Mill, or Fairy Bridge trail, have fun strolling through Grimaud by searching for the orientation course markers.

Maps are available at the Tourist Office during opening hours. This is a free activity.

Source : Grimaud Tourisme

Boutemy unveils its concierge service: So Smart Conciergerie

For over two decades, we’ve been committed to delivering the best possible service to our clients. Whether it’s assisting you in acquiring your villa in Port Grimaud or offering dream accommodations for rent, we’re here by your side.

To take it a step further, we’ve decided to offer concierge service to all our clients, whether they’re homeowners or vacationers.

So Smart Conciergerie by Boutemy Immobilier

The term « conciergerie » originally comes from luxury hospitality. It involves providing personalized assistance and a wide range of services to clients to fulfill all their desires, offering them an extra level of comfort and service.

With the rise of platforms like Booking and Airbnb, the term « conciergerie » now also refers to commercial companies whose purpose is to assist hosts in managing their listings, maintaining their properties, and/or welcoming travelers.

Boutemy Immobilier’s concierge service, launched in March 2024, embodies both dimensions. Here’s how it can make your experience in Port Grimaud incredible.

So Smart Conciergerie for homeowners

For two decades, an increasing number of homeowners have entrusted us with the management of their properties.
They select the weeks they want to enjoy their home or apartment, and we handle the rental of their property for the rest of the time.
Thanks to high traveler demand, especially during the summer period, we can ensure a very high occupancy rate (over 90%) from early April to late September.

House for rent in Port Grimaud

It’s thanks to these people who have trusted us for so long that we have informally offered our concierge services since the agency’s inception.

At their request, we’ve organized transfers from Nice or Marseille airports, booked restaurants, or welcomed them with beautiful fresh flower bouquets upon arrival.
Thanks to our extensive network of partners, we can cater to all requests, even the most unique ones.

Our concierge service now also extends to homeowners who want to manage their property themselves.

Renting out a vacation apartment involves many steps:

  • Professional photography
  • Writing and posting the listing on various rental platforms
  • Communication with travelers
  • Check-in, check-out
  • Minor repairs and maintenance
  • Housekeeping and laundry management

Our standard rental offer through Boutemy Immobilier includes all these services.

With So Smart Conciergerie, we can provide them à la carte. Let us know your needs, and we’ll provide you with a customized quote within 48 hours.

So Smart Conciergerie for travelers

If you stay in one of our properties, you’ll experience service worthy of the grandest palaces. Here’s a small selection of the services we offer: airport transfers, restaurant or excursion reservations, in-home chef, in-home yoga classes, flower and breakfast delivery to your doorstep.

Whatever your desire, feel free to let us know.

Customer satisfaction is our obsession, as evidenced by our superhost status on Airbnb.

With this new concierge service, we continue to establish ourselves as a major player in the luxury real estate sector in Port Grimaud, offering comprehensive and personalized service to our clientele.

If you need assistance with your real estate investments or wish to enjoy a dream stay on the French Riviera, Boutemy Immobilier is here to make your experience in Port Grimaud unforgettable.

Port Grimaud: 5 unforgettable experiences to have at least once in your life

You think you know Port Grimaud better than the locals? Sometimes, it’s time to see your own city with fresh eyes. Port Grimaud, nestled by the sea, holds hidden treasures waiting to enchant even the most seasoned visitors.
With its irresistible Mediterranean charm and unique way of life, this jewel of the French Riviera continues to captivate, entice, and offer a plethora of wonders to explore and moments to cherish.

1. Set sail on adventure

Copyright Europboat

Port Grimaud is the ultimate destination for sea enthusiasts. With almost as many boat moorings as houses, it’s a sailor’s paradise. But even if you’re not a boat owner, there are countless ways to enjoy the maritime magic.
Gather your loved ones and embark on a voyage aboard a boat, whether it’s a leisurely cruise or with a knowledgeable skipper. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the azure coast, gently rocked by the Mediterranean waves.

Check out our longtime partner Europe Boat for an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to mention you’re from Boutemy Immobilier for VIP treatment.

And for a different perspective, explore the canals of this Provençal Venice on a rented electric boat or a traditional « coche d’eau. »

2. Discover our village with a guided tour

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

You may have strolled through Grimaud and Port Grimaud countless times, but do you really know their stories? Whether you’re a year-round local or a summer visitor, it’s time to don your tourist hat and uncover the hidden gems that have been right in front of you all along. Join one of the affordable guided tours offered throughout the summer to delve into the history of this unique lakeside town, imagined by architect François Spoerry.

Every Tuesday from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm, from April 1st to November 3rd, Marie, a local tour guide, will unveil the mysteries of our lakeside city to you.
Reservations can be made by phone at +33 6 34 23 50 85 or by email at souslesoleildemarie@gmail.com.

3. Stroll through the local markets

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The Provençal market is a must for a successful vacation on the French Riviera. During the high season, it takes place almost every day in Grimaud or Port Grimaud. Every Monday from April to September, the Plein V’arts artisanal market is held, promoting regional craftsmanship and local products. It runs all day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the Artisans’ Square, where our agency is located, so don’t hesitate to come and say hello!

Food markets are held on Thursday mornings at the Church Square in Grimaud and on Thursday and Sunday mornings at the Market Square in Port Grimaud I. Additionally, a monthly organic market takes place at the Church Square in Grimaud on the following dates: April 14th, May 12th, June 9th, July 14th, and August 11th, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

4. Explore nature on foot or horseback

Strap on your walking shoes and hit the Coastal Path for a journey through breathtaking landscapes and hidden treasures. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an adventurous bike ride, this scenic route promises secluded coves, panoramic vistas, and glimpses of opulent mansions along the way.

For a truly unique experience, saddle up and explore the Mediterranean wilderness on horseback with guided rides offered by Ranch La Mène in Grimaud.

5. Unwind on the beach

While Port Grimaud may not boast the most famous beaches on the French Riviera, its sandy shores are well worth a visit.

plage-des-cigales-grimaud
The « Plage des Cigales » (Cicadas Beach), copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Cigales Beach, with its charming bridge and picturesque lighthouse, offers a tranquil escape for families and sun-seekers alike. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, and savor the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem. Other beaches in Grimaud include Gros Pin Beach, which offers a superb view of the Citadel of Saint-Tropez, Guerrevieille Beach, and the sandy beach of South Port Grimaud.

Events and Entertainment in Grimaud in April 2024

Friday, April 5th: Opening of Ramon Otting’s Exhibition

Copyright Ramon Otting

Organized by the Culture and Heritage department, Michèle Beddington is proud to present the new paintings by Ramon Otting along with a sculpture. In this new series of wildflowers by the Dutch painter and sculptor Ramon Otting (1969), the focus is on the wild and loving nature and how it follows its course. His inspiration for the wildflowers of Provence came like a flash! « Suddenly, it was summertime, and I was a child lying in a field of wildflowers completely fascinated by what I saw and heard: the colors, the beauty, but also a jungle full of buzzes and the crackling of little crickets and insects reproducing, eating, and in turn being eaten. – Annejet van der Zijl (Dutch Author).

Everything happens in the landscape, and as Ramon Otting says; « I love transferring the behavior of nature onto canvas. Being able to paint like this is like merging with nature, although there is always the feeling of shaping the image. But of course, this can never be achieved and can only happen in nature. Sometimes we go too far and fall. Then we must stop. In fact, it’s the quest we can never truly achieve the perfection of nature. We will always be confronted by our flaws and our insignificance.

But before us humans, it’s perseverance, the path toward the goal ».

The vernissage will be held on April 5th at the Maison des Arcades at 7:00 pm.
The exhibition will run from April 7th to May 28th, 2024.

Saturday, April 6th: Literary Getaway with Fabrice Humbert

Copyright Fabrice Humbert

Fabrice Humbert: writer, literature professor in preparatory classes, and distinguished German speaker, is the author of « Self-Portraits in Black and White » (2001), « Biography of an Unknown » (2008), « The Origin of Violence » (2009, Renaudot Poche Prize 2010), and « Sila’s Fortune » (2011, RTL-Lire Grand Prize 2011).

He will present his latest novel « The Experience of Ghosts » published by Gallimard – Encre Marine Prize 2023, about the Franklin expedition in the Canadian North Seas in the 19th century.

A cocktail will be served during the book signing session.

Organized by the Grimaud Media Library in the Beausoleil room at 6:30 pm. Free event.

Saturday, April 13th: Story Time

Copyright Médiathèque de Grimaud

Reading time for children aged 2 and up.

Every second Saturday of the month, join us at the Media Library where a book is read and interpreted by Isabelle to introduce the world of stories to the youngest ones.
Limited to 20 people. Free of charge.
10:30 am at the temporary media library on Rue du Pré de Foire.

Saturday, April 13th, and Sunday, April 14th: 31.7 Cup

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Tuesday, April 16th: Opening of the Natalie Fischer Exhibition

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Natalie Fischer aims to shed light on traditional professions such as fishing, sheep farming, beekeeping, olive growing, and winemaking through this exhibition.

She will also host a conference with Mr. André Lanza, an olive grower, on Saturday, May 18th at 7:00 pm to present his profession.

These photos are extracted from Natalie’s book titled « Saint-Tropez: A Kaleidoscope of the Region, » published in 2022.

The exhibition will take place at the Heritage Museum, with the opening at 7:00 pm. Admission is free. The exhibition will run until September 22, 2024.

Friday, April 19th: Grimaud Musical Evenings

Philipe Depetris & Pascal Polidori, copyright Philipe Depetris & Pascal Polidori


« At Grimaud Musical Evenings, Philippe Depetris, one of France’s finest flutists, accompanied by his partner and longtime friend, the excellent guitarist Pascal Polidori (their duo spans over 30 years!), takes us on a journey to Argentina with heartfelt milongas and other melodies with delicate tremors. Instead of sharp movements, expect gentle caresses and an intoxicating aroma—the essence of the colorful streets of Buenos Aires’ port district La Boca, where the tango was born in the late 19th century. Together, they also present a bouquet of tender or voluptuous melodies inspired by the Mediterranean—its colors, dreams, endless nuances, and the sense of time passing yet lingering.
It’s pure delight ». Alain Duault

Venue: Saint-Michel Church at 9:00 pm Full price: 25 euros

Sunday, April 21st: Petanque

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Join us for a friendly moment of petanque.

Meeting at the Pont des Fées boulodrome for this boules competition.
Registration at 1:30 pm & drawing at 2:00 pm. Refreshments & grilled food available on-site.

Pont des Fées boulodrome – 1:30 pm. Free entry.

Tuesday, April 23rd: Museum Conferences


Lecture on « The Cultivation of Provence Canes » by Daniel RIGOTTI

Heritage Museum – 6:30 PM – Free admission

From April 22nd to May 5th: Horseback Riding Workshops

Copyright MDME STABLES

Activities offered:

  • Riding lessons adapted to all levels
  • Horse care and discovery of equine ethology
  • Games and fun activities around the equestrian theme

Advantages of the Workshops:

  • Building self-confidence and respect for animals
  • Enhancement of equestrian skills
  • Relaxation and connection with nature
  • Meetings and sharing with other horse enthusiasts

Dates and Prices: April 22nd to May 5th, 2024

  • Workshops available for children, teenagers, and adults
  • Themed workshop: half-day 30 euros
  • Price for gallop assessments 50 euros
  • Private lessons possible

MDME STABLES GRIMAUD, chemin de Mignonne

The Essentials

Every Monday in April: Artisanal Market of Port Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

During the Plein V’ARTS events, all craft exhibitors are authentic established or promising creators in all materials such as wood, iron, clay, leather, glass, fabric, or any other composite material.

They manufacture their products in their workshops, in France and sell them themselves.

Organized by the Plein V’Arts association. Every Monday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, at the Place des Artisans.

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Farmer’s markets are a must-see in Provence.

Discover the Provencal market of Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the church square.

Explore the village of Grimaud with our orientation trail

All year round, Grimaud gives you the opportunity to explore 4 circuits to discover the village.

Whether it’s the Initiation, Castle, Mill, or Fairy Bridge trail, have fun strolling through Grimaud by searching for the orientation course markers.

Maps are available at the Tourist Office during opening hours. This is a free activity.

Source : Grimaud Tourisme

Should one invest into real estate investment in 2024?

The year 2023 proved to be a challenging one for rental investors. Many of them put their plans to purchase a second home or an apartment for Airbnb rental on hold, waiting to see how far borrowing rates would climb.

Then came the time for acceptance 🙂 We eventually came to terms with the end of the 1% interest rate era, realizing that it remained more appealing to invest at 4.5% than not to invest at all.

In this article, we will demonstrate why it still makes sense to invest in an apartment in Port Grimaud (or anywhere in France) even at what are considered high interest rates.

Real estate operates in cycles

Real estate operates in cycles, subject to fluctuations influenced by various economic and social factors. In recent years, we’ve witnessed a particularly dynamic cycle, characterized by significant drops in interest rates and an increasing awareness among the French of the importance of investing to secure their financial future, particularly in the face of retirement challenges.

Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has spurred a period of increased savings, further fueling the real estate market.

This has led to an unprecedented wave of real estate investments: nearly 1.2 million transactions in 2021 compared to an estimated 800,000 transactions for the year 2024.

The current market is sluggish, it must be said. With interest rates ranging between 4% and 4.5% over 20 years currently, the borrowing capacity of the French has been greatly limited, and only those who can put a significant down payment on their real estate projects are coming out ahead.

Nevertheless, the real estate market is remarkably resilient. It’s not a market where everything automatically comes to a stop when interest rates rise. Indeed, we’re not witnessing massive price drops. At least not on the French Riviera, a French exception, which continues to appreciate in value.

We’re in a buyer’s market

The transaction volumes are declining. Many loan applications are not being approved. Consequently, buyers are regaining power in a market that has been in favor of sellers for the past 10 years.

While the prices listed by agencies may not seem to be dropping, know that some owners are willing to entertain aggressive negotiations, especially when buyers do not include loan contingency clauses in their purchase agreements.

But beware, this situation may not last as long as some imagine. We already sense (in March 2024, the date when we are writing this article) a stirring and renewed interest in purchasing a holiday home. Interest rates are starting to drop and have even fallen below the symbolic threshold of 4% for a 20-year loan. Specialists even predict a landing between 3.00% and 3.50% by the end of the year.

Sellers are aware of this, and the risk is that prices may start to rise again in a few months, as there is often a correlation between the decline in borrowing rates and the rise in real estate prices.

Buy now, renegotiate later

France benefits from a very unique system that many foreign investors envy. We borrow at fixed rates with the possibility of renegotiating our loan at minimal cost when rates drop. Therefore, the question of the borrowing rate becomes secondary when one already has sufficient debt capacity.

Some sellers are willing to accept significant price negotiations, especially since the number of solvent potential buyers is much lower than before. Take advantage of this to buy below market prices.

If you negotiate well and buy low today, you will have benefited from an attractive purchase price and you will be able to renegotiate your loan when rates have inevitably dropped within 2 years.

If you’re an investor ready to take action, you’ll win on both fronts

Sports events in March in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez this March 2024, sports enthusiasts have plenty to cheer about. From sailing to golf and even pétanque, the region is buzzing with a plethora of thrilling sports events.

Here’s an overview of those you can join or simply watch, as the atmosphere promises to be festive and welcoming.


Saturday, March 9th and Sunday, March 10th: Armen Regatta in Cavalaire-sur-Mer


The 46th edition of the ArMeN festival, named after the fusion of Art (= Art), Sea (= Mer), and Snow (= Neige), will kick off the major events organized by the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez.

Scheduled from March 8th to 17th, 2024, this event, launched in 1978, offers a unique blend of sailing, skiing, and art. On the agenda: an artistic competition, a ski competition, and two weekends of races, including a round-trip crossing between Saint-Tropez and Cavalaire.

For art enthusiasts, an exceptional exhibition organized by Cécile de Kock will bring together several painters and sculptors from the region at the Salle Jean Despas in Saint-Tropez, from March 9th to 17th.

The first weekend of racing is set for March 9th and 10th, with a departure from Saint-Tropez. If weather permits on Saturday, participants will sail to Cavalaire, where they will receive a warm welcome from the city, the harbor, and the Cavalaire Yacht Club. On Sunday, March 10th, the sailboats will depart from Cavalaire at 11 am to return to Saint-Tropez.

Saturday, March 9th: Petanque Tournament in Grimaud


Grimaudoise Petanque Women’s Team. Copyright la Boule Grimaudoise.

Prize: €150 + entry fees.
Registration at 1:30 pm, drawing at 2 pm.
Limited to 48 teams.
For more information, call 06 29 93 83 74.

Sunday, March 17th: Enduro des 3 Caps 2024 in Gassin


The 8th edition of the « Enduro des 3 Caps » is back, featuring 5 specials and 6 electric bike (VAE) specials throughout the day in the hills overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

This year, the AC Gassinois (Future Cyclist Gassinois) has redesigned the course to bring new features and excitement.

While it’s a physically demanding event, it promises great camaraderie as participants ride together and chat during transitions, all while enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

After the competition, a grand « pasta party » will be offered to competitors, filled with joy and good humor.
Register here.

Saturday, March 23rd: Swing Flower Competition at Golf Up (Grimaud)


SWING FLOWER is a golf competition open to all: beginners and seasoned players alike, come and have fun on the 9-hole course (1 hour and 15 minutes of play).

Play in single strokeplay during this spring-themed fancy dress competition.
Dress code: hippie. The Table des Oliviers invites you to a delicious barbecue followed by the prize-giving ceremony.

Schedule:

  • 11:00 am, player registration.
  • 11:30 am, start of the competition, play in single strokeplay, 9-hole course. Opportunity to lower your handicap.
  • 1:00 pm, players return followed by an aperitif.
  • 1:30 pm, lunch around a delicious barbecue at La Table des Oliviers.
  • From 1:30 pm, shoot out.

Sunday, March 24th: Gulf of Saint-Tropez Marathon


The marathon will pass through 8 municipalities in the Gulf (Sainte-Maxime, Grimaud, Gassin, Cogolin, Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle, La Croix-Valmer, and Cavalaire), starting from Sainte-Maxime and winding its way through the heart of Saint-Tropez, offering a challenging yet enjoyable course through exceptional sites.

You can choose between the following options:

  • The marathon (41.195 km) which connects Sainte-Maxime to Cavalaire-sur-Mer
  • The 2 x 21.1 km: form a team of two to each run a half marathon
  • The marathon relay: Each team must consist of 4 relay runners. They will be free to organize themselves as they wish as long as they use the existing relay points to complete the entire distance, with each runner only running once and continuously.
  • The Transgolfe: Cover the first 18 kilometers of the marathon

Departure is at 8 am from the Pont du Préconil in Sainte-Maxime.

You can also participate in the 10-kilometer race, which will depart from Domaine de la Croix in La Croix Valmer at 8:30 am.

Fun things to do in Grimaud in March 2024

Saturday, March 3rd: Provençal Flea Market

Are you passionate about Provençal costumes? Join the rummage sale organized by Escandihado de Grimaud. You’ll find antique fabrics and lace, costumes, and other period accessories.

Arthur Bauchet Hall (Blaquières Sports Complex) – 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Free admission.

Tuesday, March 5th: ‘Les Yeux Doc’ Documentary Screening

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

For the 4th edition of the Public Prize of ‘Les Yeux Doc,’ the Grimaud Media Library presents the screening of 4 documentary films in competition:

  • « Akeji, le souffle de la montagne » by Mélanie Schann and Corentin Leconte
  • « America » by Giacomo Abbruzzese
  • « Honeyland » by Ljubomir Stefanov & Tamara Kotevska
  • « Soul Kids » by Hugo Sobeman

In collaboration with Arte and the BPI-Centre Pompidou, you can vote at the media library to elect your favorite film.

Organized by the Grimaud Media Library. Screening at 2:30 pm.


Friday, March 8th: Exploring the Apache World

Copyright Ranch de la Mène

An exceptional afternoon awaits at Ranch La Mène this Friday, March 8th! It’s a unique outing tailored for children aged 3 to 8 years old.

On the agenda: Indian tales in our tipis with Apache the wolf-dog, carriage rides, bow making, skill games, and much more. Come and share this unforgettable moment!

For details, please call 06.26.51.05.75. Reservation required. Price: 50 euros.


Friday, March 8th: Les Impromptus


The biography of Camille Claudel is first and foremost read through her artworks. They depict the story of her life. However, other documents can help us feel and shed light on what the life of this brilliant artist must have been. Reading her correspondence and testimonies awakens us to the reality and concrete challenges she had to face, both as an artist and as a woman.

Original creation and vocal performance by Charlotte Assémat Original music and keyboards by Sébastien Lalisse Photo credit: Charlotte Assémat

Venue: Reception hall « Arthur Bauchet » at the Blaquières sports complex, at 6:30 pm. Free admission.

Sunday, March 10th: Les Dimanches de la Scène : la roue tourne

Copyright Office du Tourisme de Grimaud

Surrounded by a husband who’s too placid and a neighbor who’s too forward, she’ll need to unleash her imagination to break free from her mundane life as a housewife. But her actions and demands will uncover a mysterious agreement shared by the two men: an act of desperate love from a husband placed in the hands of a rascal with the demeanor of a jolly fellow! Unsaid words are often misunderstood! Dive back into the 70s era to witness the emancipation of a « stay-at-home » woman in a comedy full of twists and turns! On the agenda: love, secrets, and a soup that’s not salty enough.

Presented by the Estérelles Company.

Friday, March 15th, Escapade littéraire

Dimitri Kantcheloff. Copyright Romin Favre

Dimitri Kantcheloff was born in 1981. At twenty, he was a guitarist in rock’n’roll bands, at thirty he worked in communications, and at forty he published his first novel, « Supernova » (Les Avrils, 2021).

He was recently featured on « La Grande Librairie » on France 5 and « Au bonheur des livres ». He will be presenting his new biographical novel about a part of Boris Vian’s life, « Life and Death of Vernon Sullivan » published by Éditions Finitude.

A cocktail will be served during the book signing session at 6:30 pm in the Beausoleil room.

Saturday, March 16th : Reading time!

Copyright Médiathèque de Grimaud

Novel reading for children aged 2 and up.

Every 2nd Saturday of the month, come to the Library where a book is read and brought to life by Isabelle to introduce the world of stories to the youngest ones.

The library is temporarily located on Rue du Pré de Foire. Limited to 20 people. Reservation mandatory at 04 94 43 29 02. Reading at 10:30 am.

Saturday, March 16th, and Sunday, March 17th: « Life Differently / La vie autrement  » encounters

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Explore the offerings of 90 exhibitors specializing in organic (100%), fair trade, and zero-waste (where possible) goods. Dive into a world of choice and quality from local producers and entrepreneurs, alongside enriching workshops and insightful conferences.

Venue: Blaquières Sports Complex – From 10 am to 7 pm (Saturday) and 10 am to 6 pm (Sunday) Admission: €3

Thursday, March 21st : Printemps des poètes / Poets’ Spring


For its 25th edition, the Spring of Poets will embrace a theme with boundless resonance: « Grace in all its forms. »

Poems will be recited, declaimed, slammed, and sung by friends of words, poetry, and nature. A moment of sharing and grace, gentle and serene.

Gérald Ruault, writer and poet, will passionately deliver unpublished texts from his collection of poetry, accompanied by music.

Martine Le Cam, a collector of words and wild plants, artist, and stargazer, will read unpublished poems from « Emergence of the Unheard, » texts by Henri Barthas.

And Samya Arabi, poet and advocate for living together, will share her unpublished poems.

A friendly gathering with the poets will be accompanied by a glass of friendship. Time: 6:30 pm, Beausoleil room.

Friday March 22nd: the Musical Nights in Grimaud

Henri Demarquette. Copyright Jean-Marc Solta

On his 1700 Goffredo Cappa cello, one of the greatest French cellists of his generation on the international stage, Henri Demarquette has just recorded the complete Bach suites.

In the intimate setting of the Penitents’ Chapel, he presents, in a preview, three of Johann Sebastian Bach’s six suites, a monument of music.

Penitents’ Chapel at 6:30 pm. Adult price: €25.

Saturday, March 23rd : WWF Earth Hour

To mark the 18th edition of the global event « Earth Hour, » the Grimaud Castle will be plunged into darkness for one hour starting at 8:30 pm on Saturday, March 23rd.You can also take part in this event by turning off the lights at home.

Sunday, March 24th: Gulf of Saint-Tropez Marathon

From Sainte-Maxime to Cavalaire-sur-Mer, this event is an opportunity to (re)discover the legendary Gulf of Saint-Tropez in a new light.
Come and enjoy a unique route that combines coastal scenery, vineyards, hills, and scrubland while dressed in your finest costumes, all in a friendly, festive, and sporty atmosphere!

Sunday, March 31st: Egg Hunt

As Easter approaches, the traditional egg hunt will take place in the park of the Notre-Dame de la Queste chapel.

Through the trees and hiding spots, both young and old will engage in an olympiad with rewards up for grabs!

Are you ready to take on the challenge to win the ultimate prize… in chocolate?

Entertainment, leisure, and other surprises await. See you at 10:00 am!

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village


Markets are a must-visit in Provence. Discover the Provençal market of Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the Church Square.

Grimaud Village Orienteering

All year round, Grimaud offers four circuits to help you discover the village. Whether it’s the Introduction, Castle, Mill, or Fairy Bridge circuit, explore Grimaud with an added dose of fun by searching for the orienteering markers.

Maps are available at the Tourist Office during opening hours or you can download the document below in the « documentation » section.

This activity is free of charge.

Source: Grimaud Tourisme


Carnaval de Nice and Fête du Citron®

In February, the French Riviera adorns itself with vibrant colors and a festive atmosphere with two flagship events: the Nice Carnival and the Fête du Citron® (Lemon Festival )in Menton. These emblematic celebrations offer a unique experience, combining spectacular parades, giant citrus sculptures, and an enchanting ambiance.

In this article, you will discover the highlights of these festivities and delve into the magical world of these two events.

The Carnaval de Nice

The Nice Carnival will take place from February 17th to March 3rd this year. Here are our tips for making the most of it.

  • Attend the Carnival Parades
King of the Nice Carnival in 2019. Wikimedia Commons.

The carnival parades are a breathtaking visual experience during the Nice Carnival. By lining up along the Promenade des Anglais, you can make the most of the colorful spectacle. The floats are often accompanied by troupes of dancers and musicians, creating a dynamic and joyful atmosphere. The details of the floats, costumes, and performances are truly impressive, offering a memorable experience for spectators of all ages.

  • Join the flower battle
Copyright Ville de Nice

The Flower Battle is an iconic event of the Nice Carnival. Picture yourself in the midst of a shower of fresh flowers as elaborately decorated floats parade in front of you. Participants throw flowers into the crowd, creating a joyful and fragrant atmosphere. It’s a unique sensory experience that captures the festive spirit of the Carnival.

  • Explore the Albert I garden
Jardin Albert Ier Nice
The main esplanade of the garden, in the background, the Bernar Venet’s Arc. Nice. Copyright Omar Ansari.

During the Carnival, the Albert I Garden transforms into a veritable citrus paradise. Monumental sculptures made from oranges and lemons adorn the garden, creating a dazzling spectacle of vibrant colors. You can stroll through the garden’s pathways, admire the floral artworks, and take photos with these unique creations.

  • Enjoy the evening shows


In the evening, the Nice Carnival takes on another dimension with music, dance, and fireworks shows. Light displays illuminate the night sky, while talented artists captivate the audience with their dazzling performances. Whether you prefer live music, contemporary dance, or street performances, there’s something for everyone.

Just a short half-hour from Nice lies Menton and its famous Lemon Festival® (it’s been a registered trademark since 1993!).

The Fête du Citron® in Menton

Every year, the Lemon Festival® is punctuated by several highlights: the Golden Fruit parades, which will take place on Sundays, February 18th, February 25th, and March 3rd, 2024, and the evening parades held on Thursdays, February 22nd and February 29th, 2024.

  • Attend the Golden Fruit Corso (Citrus Parade)
Golden Fruit Corso – 90th edition © Ville de Menton

The Golden Fruit Parade is one of the highlights of the Festival du Citron®. Floats adorned with citrus fruits parade through the streets of Menton, accompanied by brass bands and dance groups. The vibrant colors of the fruits contrast with the azure blue sky and the white of the Mediterranean buildings, creating a striking tableau. Visitors like to mingle with the crowd and admire up close the intricate details of the citrus sculptures.

  • Visit the Boviès Gardens
Copyright fafaver

The Biovès Gardens are the focal point of the Fête du Citron® in Menton.
Each year, these beautifully landscaped gardens are transformed into a dazzling citrus landscape.
Monumental sculptures representing famous landmarks, historical figures, or fantastical creatures are created from thousands of citrus fruits. The precision and detail of these works are simply astounding, offering visitors an unparalleled artistic experience.

  • Enjoy the local products
Copyright DR

It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the delights of the local cuisine based on citrus fruits. Market stalls offer a variety of enticing products such as artisanal jams, refreshing sorbets, fragrant liqueurs, and even savory dishes enhanced with citrus.
It’s a true explosion of flavors that celebrates the iconic fruit of the region.

  • Explore the old town

Take the time to explore the picturesque old town of Menton. The narrow winding streets are full of charm, with their colorful facades, local craft shops, and lively cafes. Be sure to visit the Basilique Saint-Michel, a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, before sitting down at one of the traditional restaurants to enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Events and activities in Grimaud in February 2024

Friday, February 2nd: Introduction to the Marseille Tarot

From 10 am to 1 pm, introductory workshop to the authentic Marseille Tarot by Hedwige Simonet. The tarot was created in the Middle Ages to help people who could neither read nor write understand the difficulties they were experiencing, unlike an oracle that may predict the future. The tarot recounts the evolution of the individual from birth, through the various stages of life. It is a « book of life psychology. » Hedwige will outline the main lines of the 22 major arcana. Bring your tarot if you have one!
Cost: €10/person.
Registration via email at osmose.evenementiel@gmail.com or by phone: 06 78 88 64 48.

Friday, February 2nd, opening reception for the Elke de Mol exhibition

Copyright Elke de Mol

Elke de Mol is a painter graduated from the Fine Arts of Cologne (Germany). She opened a gallery in 1970 in Versailles, and in 1993, L’Atelier 11 in Saint-Tropez.

She has participated in numerous exhibitions and various artistic events in France, Germany, USA, Brussels, Switzerland, Sweden, Japan, Norway, and Spain.

In 2007 and 2009, documentaries aired on German television recounting her life and works. She met Salvador Dali in 1968 in Cadaqués and later encountered the German painter Hartung in Saint-Tropez.

She traveled with her husband Jacques de Mol, also a painter, who exhibited for the last time at Demeure Sellier before his passing in 1996. Three of his paintings are exhibited there in his honor.

The exhibition will take place at Maison des Arcades, Impasse du Balladou, at 5:30 pm.

From Friday, February 2nd to Sunday, February 4th: Truffle Festival

Grimaud hosts its 12th gastronomic truffle market: Truffe en fête !

A quintessential seasonal product, truffle holds a significant place in the hearts of the Varois. It magnifies in the most delightful way the flagship products of our region, and it’s no coincidence that many of our restaurants feature it prominently on their winter menus. Conveying values inherent to a « refined terroir, » it was natural for Grimaud to associate its image with this delicious tuber.

Of course, truffle reigns supreme this weekend, but also cheeses, charcuterie, foie gras, wines, champagnes, prestigious rums and spirits, chocolates, nougats will be present at the market. And all around them, there will be animations and must-attend events: truffle hunting demonstrations by a truffle dog, culinary demonstrations, guided tours, concerts, and even raffles will punctuate the days…

Don’t miss this now traditional rendezvous centered around truffle!

Tuesday, February 6th: Opening reception for Martine Alison’s exhibition

Copyright Martine Alison


Martine Alison is a contemporary French figurative painter. She is drawn to elegance, simplicity, and the beauty of lines.

Martine Alison’s art is characterized by vivacity and proximity. Her work is associated either with a very colorful, voluminous natural setting, or both. Her outdoor scenes are vibrant and lively, teeming with flourishing plants. Incredibly rich in inspiration, her paintings show us a world filled with ideas bordering on naivety, guiding us towards a delicate sensuality.

Born in 1959 in France, Martine Alison has exhibited her works nationally and internationally, including in the United States, Italy, and Taiwan.

The opening reception will take place at 5:30 pm at the Heritage Museum.

Saturday, February 10th: Guinguette Tartiflette at Espace Pierre Basset

Reserve your tartiflette before February 7th to savor this delightful mountain dish that will warm your taste buds. For a complete immersion, don your ski gear or warm attire and let yourself be transported into the wintry atmosphere of this day. Explore the stands of the exhibitors who have delicious surprises in store for you. We look forward to welcoming many of you for this friendly and musical escapade.

Discover Côté fleurs by Laure, La Cabane de Pascale, So Salad so Pizza, Larô Sushi, Domaine La Pertuade, and the Biscuiterie Gourmands et Gourmets. Each one will offer you a unique experience!

Don’t forget to enjoy a glass of mulled wine to complete this winter experience. Make the most of this day where gastronomy, conviviality, and music come together.

Reservation at 06 64 27 21 21. Price: €10.

Saturday, February 17th: Tribute Concert to Sade

Copyright Nostalgie

The band Story Of presents their musical event « The Tribute to Sade » in concert.

Sade is a British music group formed in 1982 in London, named after its lead singer Sade Adu. Their music incorporates elements of Soul, Smooth Jazz, and Pop.

Venue: Salle Beausoleil at 8:30 pm. Reservation required via SMS at 06 30 33 62 16.

Sunday, February 18th: Children’s Carnival

Copyright Cyril Carpentier


The Grimaud Carnival returns in 2024 for a day full of color and confetti with many activities on the theme of pirates!

Get ready with your family or friends, prepare your best costumes for this occasion. The event starts at 2:30 pm.

Friday, February 23rd: « The Grand Prayers of the Opera » by Norah Amsellem (soprano) & Magali Pyka de Coster (harp)

The charm, sensitivity, expressiveness, and pure beauty of soprano Norah Amsellem’s voice will be showcased in some of the most beautiful prayers and « Ave Marias » offered by opera composers. Partnering with the greatest stars of the lyrical art from Plácido Domingo to Roberto Alagna, Norah Amsellem has performed on the world’s most prestigious stages, from the Metropolitan Opera in New York to La Scala in Milan, Covent Garden in London, and the Opéra Bastille in Paris. Appreciated for her sense of emotion and the dramatic intensity she brings to her roles, she shares this concert with the intense or crystalline sounds of the harp played by Magali Pyka de Coster, a graduate of the Hochschule für Musik in Detmold, Germany. She is the creator of the « International Harp Encounters, » a European gathering that brings together the elite of this instrument. A unique combination for beautiful emotions!

Venue: Saint-Michel Church at 6:30 pm. Tickets are €25 each, free for children under 10 years old.

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The markets are a must-visit in Provence.

Find the Provençal market in Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the church square.

Orienteering Race in the Village of Grimaud


All year round, Grimaud offers four circuits for you to discover the village! Whether it’s the Introduction, Castle, Mill, or Fairy Bridge circuit, explore Grimaud while adding a fun twist by searching for the orienteering markers.

Maps are available at the Tourist Office during opening hours (provided against an identity document) or you can download the document below in the « documentation » section.

This activity is free of charge.

Source

Winter in the sun: 6 reasons to visit the gulf of Saint-Tropez off-season

The shores of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, often associated with lively summers and sun-soaked beaches, reveal a completely different charm as the seasons change. Although this world-renowned destination is traditionally cherished during the summer months, discerning travelers know that winter holds unsuspected treasures in this Mediterranean region. Let’s explore the reasons why the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is worth a visit off-season.

The intimate charm of the villages

When the summer crowds recede, the charming villages of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez take on an intimate and tranquil atmosphere. Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle, Gassin, and Grimaud reveal their cobbled streets and picturesque squares without being overrun by the summer crowd. Their cafes and artisanal shops offer an authentic experience, where one can stroll at leisure and discover the true Provencal way of life.

Deserted beaches

Pampelonne Beach, copyright DR

The renowned beaches of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, usually besieged in summer, present a completely different aspect during the winter season. Pampelonne Beach, famous for its beach clubs and crystal-clear waters, transforms into a haven of peace where one can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline undisturbed. The serenity reigning over the deserted beaches creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate tranquility and calm.

Indulging in culinary delights in absolute serenity

Cabane Bambou in Ramatuelle remains open throughout the winter

Despite the trend of some establishments closing until April, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez offers a distinctive gastronomic experience even in winter. Feel free to explore local recommended spots, often frequented by locals, to discover regional flavors in warm and welcoming settings. While the selection might be more limited than during peak season, the restaurants open in winter contribute to maintaining the culinary reputation of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez throughout the year.

Why not treat yourself to the luxury of lunch on the beach in the middle of winter? The restaurant at Cabane Bambou is open from Thursday to Sunday for lunch and even offers picnics on weekends.

A cultural and artistic heritage

Copyright Musée de l’Annonciade

The rich history of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez comes to life off-season. Museums, art galleries, and historical sites are accessible without the summer crowds. The Annonciade Museum in Saint-Tropez, for instance, houses an impressive collection of modern artworks, providing a cultural immersion without the typical queues of the summer season.

Authentic local markets

The organic market in Grimaud takes place once a month

Stroll through the colorful stalls, meet local producers, and taste the local products without the summer hustle and bustle. The market in Saint-Tropez, held every Tuesday and Saturday morning, is a perfect opportunity to discover the delights of Provence in an authentic way.

In Grimaud, the weekly market takes place on Thursdays in the church square.

Outdoor activities to stay fit

Winter in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez offers ideal conditions for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, cycling, and even golf – there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy. The mild Mediterranean climate during this time allows for active exploration without the sweltering temperatures of summer.

For example, you can take part in the « Foulées Maximoises » on Sunday, January 21, with the option of a 10-kilometer race or a half marathon.

In conclusion, visiting the Gulf of Saint-Tropez off-season provides a different but equally enchanting experience. Quiet alleys, deserted beaches, and exquisite gastronomy contribute to a memorable winter getaway. For those seeking authenticity and tranquility, this Mediterranean destination reveals its true treasures when the summer crowds retreat.

So, indulge in a sunny winter in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and discover an authentic and preserved Provence.

A romantic weekend in January in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: 5 must-do activities

Did you know that today, Monday, January 15th, is the Blue Monday?

« Blue Monday » is an expression referring to the third Monday of January, considered by some as the most depressing day of the year. The concept behind Blue Monday is based on a pseudoscientific formula developed by the British psychologist Cliff Arnall in 2005. This formula takes into account various factors such as weather, post-holiday debts, time since Christmas, lack of motivation, and other elements that may affect mood.

Also, to brighten up your winter , we invite you to plan short romantic getaways. A little weekend in the sun should help you recharge.

Therefore, today we suggest five unforgettable activities to explore during a winter weekend in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

1. An enchanting stroll through the old village of Saint-Tropez

Copyright Wikimedia Commons

Embark on your romantic escapade with a stroll through the cobblestone alleys of the old village of Saint-Tropez. The quaint shops of local artisans, picturesque cafes, and breathtaking views of the harbor create an authentic and charming atmosphere.

Don’t forget to visit the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Church in Saint-Tropez, an architectural gem that provides a haven of peace in the midst of the hustle and bustle. If you prefer guided exploration of the village, tours are organized throughout the year.

2. Wine tasting in local vineyards

Copyright Château Saint-Maur

The Gulf of Saint-Tropez is home to a multitude of local vineyards, many of which remain open year-round. Embrace the intimacy of the low season to immerse yourself in the world of local wines.

From wine tastings in cozy cellars to the discovery of regional grape varieties, this experience will allow you to share precious moments around delicious beverages.

We recommend contacting Château Saint-Maur in Cogolin or the Torpez cellar, which is only a 5-minute drive from the port of Saint-Tropez.

3. A romantic hike along the coastal trail

Put on your hiking shoes and set out to explore the breathtaking coastal trail. Even in winter, the coastal landscapes offer awe-inspiring panoramas. Choose a section of the trail suitable for your level and allow the rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and invigorating sea air to captivate you.
If the temperatures are mild enough, don’t forget to bring a romantic picnic to share a moment of intimacy by the water.

4. An intimate dinner at fine dining establishments

Le Hobo, copyright S2 Sam

While some restaurants may be closed in January, many local bistros and eateries remain open, offering an authentic culinary experience. Choose warm places where comforting Provencal cuisine comes to life.

Indulge in local dishes paired with regional wines, and immerse yourself in the intimate atmosphere of these picturesque establishments. If customer reviews are important to you, you can follow recommendations posted on TripAdvisor.

5. An extraordinary sunset experience

Copyright M.Puppin

Treat yourself to an unforgettable spectacle: the sunset from the citadel of Saint-Tropez. In January, the vibrant colors set the sky ablaze, creating a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.

Ascend to the top of the citadel hand in hand, enjoy the exceptional panorama, and be captivated by the enchantment of the scene.

What to do in Grimaud in January 2024 ?

Friday, January 5: Friday Evenings at La Table des Oliviers

Copyright la Table des Oliviers

Every first Friday of the month, the restaurant La Table des Oliviers in Grimaud offers a themed evening.

On Friday, January 5th, ‘Vive l’Empereur‘ evening will feature Corsican cuisine and Napoleon Bonaparte’s favorite dishes in an Empire ambiance.

Menu:

Amuse-Bouche
Corsican Charcuterie
Starters
Tabouleh back from Egypt (dried fruits, preserves, and fresh herbs)
or
French onion soup gratiné
Main Courses
The famous veal Marengo
or
John Dory fillet, white butter with Corsican clementine
Desserts
Mille-feuille with pastry cream
or
Chestnut mousse and candied orange
Sweet Treat
Licorice

If you dress according to the theme, the restaurant offers you a complimentary aperitif crafted by the chef. Reservations are recommended.

Saturday, January 6: Farmer’s Market at Ranch de la Mène

Copyright Ranch de la Mène

Discover producers, craftsmen, and creators from Var right within the educational farm of the Ranch.

Enjoy horse and pony rides and explore the mini-farm as well. From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

January 8th: New Year’s Wishes from the Mayor of Grimaud

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Alain Benedetto, Mayor of the municipality of Grimaud, accompanied by his municipal council, will convey his wishes to the people of Grimaud for the year 2024.

After reviewing the past year and announcing new projects, this ceremony will be followed by a cocktail where Mayor Benedetto and his team will be delighted to meet with you. At the Blaquières Complex at 6:30 PM.

Tuesday, January 16th: Galette de Grimaud Europe

The members of Grimaud Europe, hailing from England, Italy, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and all captivated by the charm of Grimaud, invite you to savor the renowned King’s Cake.

This event also provides an opportunity to introduce their generous monthly cycle of conferences. The conferences, led by experts, cover diverse topics such as heritage, psychology, and culture.

Beausoleil Hall at 6:30 PM.

Friday, January 19th: Nights of Reading

Copyright Isabelle André


The 8th Nights of Reading, organized for the third consecutive year by the National Center for the Book at the suggestion of the Ministry of Culture, will take place from January 18 to 21, 2024.

Theme for 2024: The Body.

On January 19th: Readings aloud with the « Little Reading Champions. »

As part of the national event « Nights of Reading, » we will introduce you to the 16 students in CM2 (fifth grade) from the two school groups in the town who are preparing for the reading aloud championship. In turn, they will read an excerpt from their books for 3 minutes aloud on stage in front of the jury and the audience. At the end of this reading evening, only two children will be chosen to represent the town in the departmental final, which will take place in March. Come support them and also propose your reading aloud on Friday, January 19th, at 6:30 PM in the Beausoleil hall!

Every Thursday: Open air market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Markets are a must-visit in Provence.

Discover the Provencal market in Grimaud every Thursday morning from 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM at the church square.

Source

Analysis for the real estate market in 2023 – Zoom on Port Grimaud

As the year 2023 draws to a close, it’s time to assess the evolution of the real estate market overall and, more specifically, in Port Grimaud.

Dull Real Estate Market in 2023

The euphoric period of the real estate market in 2021, marked by a record number of transactions, has given way to a dull atmosphere in 2023. Even though the year 2022 maintained a high sales volume, the production of real estate loans has experienced a significant drop. However, this decline has not yet prompted sellers to adjust their prices downward. The impact of this sluggish trend seems, for now, contained, creating a period of wait-and-see in the sector.

Impact of interest rates and the climate crisis

After reaching a historic low in January 2022, interest rates have started to rise, influencing the real estate market. This increase in rates coincides with the climate crisis, leading to the adoption of the Climate and Resilience Law. The obligations for energy renovation have created uncertainties, especially for modest landlords, while causing a slowdown in the existing home market in some major cities. New regulations, such as the increased importance of the Energy Performance Certificate (DPE), have a significant impact on buyer behavior. According to Thomas Lefebvre, scientific director at MeilleursAgents, as part of a study for SeLoger.com, « 90% of future buyers consider a poor DPE as a negotiation lever or declare that they only visit properties with a good DPE. »

Contrasting Trends and New Rules of the Game

The real estate market in 2023 presents contrasting trends. While prices are experiencing a slowdown in some major French cities, notably in Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux, it’s important to emphasize that this doesn’t signify a widespread collapse. Sellers, more inclined to wait than to reduce their claims, contribute to maintaining a period of uncertainty.

Simultaneously, the new real estate market faces paradoxes with a sluggish supply and high costs, complicating property access for first-time buyers. On the other hand, the second-home market remains dynamic, supported by remote work.

The Exception of the Second-Home Market

Coastal cities, especially those on the French Riviera, which are suitable for both primary and secondary homes, continued to see their prices rise in 2023. This is the case for Nice or Marseille, but also for Grimaud (+14% in one year).

In our village of Grimaud, the Covid effect is not fading, quite the opposite.

As you can see in the graph below, prices fluctuated around 6000€/m2 between 2015 and 2020/2021.

Source: le Figaro


Despite historically having an international clientele, mainly comprising our nearby Italian, Belgian, and English neighbors, along with numerous Americans, the Covid era witnessed a significant surge in French buyers.

As you’re aware, the Covid period notably boosted real estate prices in peri-urban areas, as a considerable number of French residents felt the urge to embrace a greener lifestyle or invest in secondary homes.

Since the reopening of borders, our international clientele, constituting more than half of our buyers, has made a robust comeback, accounting for the upswing in real estate prices.

Among these buyers, a majority makes purchases without resorting to bank loans. Consequently, we find ourselves amidst a distinctive real estate climate in Port Grimaud.

In many cities across France, challenges in securing credit mean that the same property may hit the market 3 or 4 times due to loan refusals, compelling anxious sellers to reduce their prices. This phenomenon is foreign to us and, in my opinion, contributes to upholding market prices in the real estate sector.

Additional factors have been detailed in this article.

Therefore, there is no need for concern after reading alarming headlines about the real estate market in France. The situation in Port Grimaud remains very reassuring for investors.

Experience unforgettable Christmas holidays in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

The holiday season is approaching quickly, and if you’re in search of a destination where the enchantment of Christmas operates at every street corner, think about the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. This iconic enclave on the French Riviera, known for its timeless elegance, offers more than just renowned beaches and sparkling yachts. Discover how our region transforms into a festive haven, where Christmas traditions take center stage.

Explore Provençal Christmas traditions

In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, we cherish our customs. While some may be debated due to their religious origins, such as nativity scenes, they are still perpetuated with vigor and enthusiasm by the custodians of our Provençal heritage.

On La Garde Freinet, Maxime Codou and the Association of Friends of the Nativity Scene (ACMC) invite you to discover thousands of ‘santons’ in the superb Saint-Jean Chapel. The exhibition opens on December 2nd; you will find all the necessary information here.

On Saturday, December 2nd, at 5 PM, you can also attend a Nativity play (pastorale in French) at the ‘foyer des campagnes’ in Plan-de-la-Tour.

A pastorale is a theatrical representation that stages biblical characters, primarily related to the Nativity, in a Provençal context. The actors wear traditional costumes and perform scenes highlighting key moments of Christian history, such as the procession of shepherds (« pastres » in Provençal) going to the nativity scene to offer gifts to Jesus.


Festive Gastronomy and Mediterranean Delights

Gastronomy holds a place of honor in Christmas celebrations in Saint-Tropez. Michelin-starred restaurants and elegant brasseries create festive menus highlighting the delights of the region. Savor refined dishes that blend the flavors of the Mediterranean with French culinary excellence. A candlelit dinner in one of the starred establishments in the region becomes an unforgettable sensory experience, where each bite reveals the essence of Provencal cuisine.

We also invite you to discover or recreate at home the Provençal tradition of the 13 desserts at Christmas.

13 desserts

This tradition dates back to the 18th century and symbolizes the twelve apostles gathered around Jesus during the Last Supper, the meal Jesus had with his disciples before the crucifixion. The 13 desserts represent a variety of flavors, combining dried fruits, fresh fruits, and local specialties.
Here is a list of typical elements of the Provençal 13 desserts:

  • The Four Mendiants: Almonds (representing the Carmelites), dried figs (for the Franciscans), walnuts (for the Dominicans), and raisins (for the Augustinians).
  • Dried fruits: Dates, hazelnuts, almonds, and dried figs.
  • Fresh fruits: Apples, pears, oranges, and grapes.
  • White and black nougat: White nougat is often made with almonds, while black nougat is made with hazelnuts or pistachios.
  • Quince paste
  • Fougasse: A type of sweet bread sometimes adorned with candied fruits.
  • Almond paste: Often shaped like fruits or small animals.
  • Calisson: A diamond-shaped confection composed of flavored almond paste, candied orange peel, and a thin layer of royal icing.
  • Grapes: Fresh, symbolizing prosperity.

This tradition reflects the abundance and diversity of the region’s products. The 13 desserts are arranged on a table, and everyone is invited to enjoy them with family or friends, extending the Christmas festivities with warmth and indulgence.

A Winter Getaway by the Sea

For those seeking a more intimate experience, winter in Saint-Tropez offers the tranquility of an off-season escape. The peaceful beaches invite serene strolls, while café terraces provide breathtaking views of the calm gulf. Treat yourself to a well-being interlude in one of the region’s luxurious spas, where soothing treatments are designed to revitalize you during this celebratory period.

On December 23rd, join the festivities to welcome Santa Claus, who arrives by sea in Sainte-Maxime.

Copyright visitgolfe.com

In conclusion, spending the Christmas holidays in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez emerges as a captivating choice for those seeking a memorable celebration in an exceptional setting. Between festive traditions, renowned gastronomy, and Mediterranean charm, Grimaud, and more broadly, the entire Gulf of Saint-Tropez, unveil an enchanting facet of the French Riviera, ready to welcome those in search of the extraordinary in every moment of the year-end celebrations.

Fun things to do in Grimaud in december 2023

Friday, December 1st: Friday Nights at the Table des Oliviers

Copyright la Table des Oliviers

Every first Friday of the month, the restaurant La Table des Oliviers in Grimaud hosts a captivating evening. This Friday, immerse yourself in a Crime and Palate Night with a retro Chicago atmosphere.

Join us for this thrilling investigation during a dinner show at La Table des Oliviers. You’ll have to uncover the identity of the murderer and the motive behind the crime…

On the menu: Tapas aperitif, duck confit parmentier & winter salad, salted butter tarte tatin.

If you embrace the theme, the restaurant will treat you to a complimentary aperitif. Reservations are recommended.

Tuesday, December 5th: Grimaud Europe’s Advent Evening

Copyright Roberto Vazquez

Every year, Grimaud Europe celebrates the tradition of Advent, the period leading up to Christmas, with a grand and convivial evening.

Everyone brings dishes, savory or sweet treats, traditional from their region or country, to enjoy together with friends. It’s a delightful way to get to know each other better and share our customs as well as those of our neighbors.

This is the mission of the Grimaud Europe Extra Municipal Commission!
Join us at Salle Beausoleil at 6:30 PM.

Friday, December 8th: Festival of Lights

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

To celebrate the start of the Christmas lights, the Saint-Jean Fire Association invites you to enjoy a delightful moment in Grimaud.

Join the children’s torchlight procession through the village streets, followed by a grand spectacle at Place Neuve.

And, of course, we will indulge in roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, and mulled wine!

On the agenda: a violin and electric harp duo, a luminous juggling duo, and stilt walkers’ procession. Meet at Place Vieille at 6:00 PM.

Saturday, December 9th: L’heure du conte


Every second Saturday of the month, join us at the Media Library where a book is read and interpreted by Isabelle to introduce the world of stories to the youngest ones (from 2 years old).

Since September, the Media Library has been temporarily relocated to Rue du Pré de Foire.

Book reading: « Le Bonnet Rouge » at 10:30 AM.

Saturday, December 9th: Rugby Club du Golfe’s Bingo Night

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Enjoy camaraderie and a rugby atmosphere at the Rugby Club du Golfe’s Bingo Night.

Be a sponsor for the evening to support our young players in their personal and collective development through our club and this wonderful sport, the school of life… Rugby.

Numerous prizes to be won, with refreshments and food available on-site.

21 bingo games – 7 full cards – 1 empty card.

Reservation via SMS (see the number here) is recommended. Doors open at the Blaquières sports complex at 6:00 PM.

Tuesday, December 12th: L’heure du conte ou tout conte fait (French pun)

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Christmas tale for children aged 2 and above.
Come and witness the theatrical adaptation of the famous tale of Pinocchio!
Take part in the story by interacting with the actors. Salle Beausoleil at 6:30 PM.


Tuesday, December 19th: Shepherd’s Christmas

Copyright Musée du Patrimoine

Christmas at the Musée du Patrimoine.

Presentation of the 13 desserts with mulled wine starting at 6:30 PM.
Come and admire the Nativity scene!
Reservation is mandatory at 04 94 55 57 37.

Friday, December 22nd, and Saturday, December 23rd: Christmas in Canada

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

A beautiful family moment with a Christmas theme in Grimaud for 2 days under the banner of Canada.

On the Place du Village during 2 days of magical celebrations, enjoy numerous activities: authentic Canadian chalets, one transformed into Santa’s house with the star of the day inside, a campfire with musicians, demonstrations of « tire-sur-neige » (the famous maple syrup lollipops melted and poured onto snow), a pancake workshop, Canadian story readings, and many more surprises!

And, of course, the now-traditional fireworks above the Château de Grimaud, even more magical and enchanting, longer and more intense, set off on Saturday, December 23rd, at 6:30 PM! As in previous years, the optimal viewing spot is from the Moulin Saint-Roch, with complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate, and roasted marshmallows!

Agenda:

Friday, December 22, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

– All day long: Canadian chalets; live Canadian music around the campfire; sugar shack; demonstrations and tastings of « tire-sur-neige » (maple syrup lollipops melted and poured onto snow); presence of Santa Claus in his chalet; Christmas workshops: writing a letter to Santa, creative workshops (making Christmas decorations for the tree), maple syrup pancake workshop and giant wooden games.

– At 4:00 PM & 6:00 PM: Canadian story readings

– At 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM & 6:30 PM: Village scavenger hunt, exploring the wonders of Canada!

Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

– All day long: Canadian chalets; live Canadian music around the campfire; sugar shack; demonstrations and tastings of « tire-sur-neige » (maple syrup lollipops melted and poured onto snow); presence of Santa Claus in his chalet; Christmas workshops: writing a letter to Santa, creative workshops (making Christmas decorations for the tree), maple syrup pancake workshop; face painting; wood sculpture demonstration by Willy Niodo…

– At 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM: Canadian story readings

– At 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM & 4:30 PM: Village scavenger hunt, exploring the wonders of Canada!

– At 11:00 AM, 2:30 PM & 4:00 PM: Parade of our Christmas Batucada and its 8 musicians!

– From 12:30 PM: Christmas lunch in the heart of our Canadian village, or take it away: Quebec specialties, maple syrup pancakes, drinks… (payment on-site, cash only, no reservation needed)

– At 3:00 PM: Children’s Christmas show: « Le coffre magique de Noël » by Julien Sigalas. An initiatory and interactive tale, alternately funny, touching, and quirky. The adventures of Firmin, a spoiled little boy who, thanks to a magic chest, will travel from the Himalayas to Canada and learn the essentials. He will keep a memory… His most beautiful Christmas present. Whimsical characters, far-fetched situations, a dash of adventure, and lots of tenderness are all woven into this story that exudes the magic of Christmas.

– At 6:00 PM: Christmas parade through the village, from the Church Square to Moulin Saint-Roch!

– At 6:30 PM: Grand musical fireworks above Château de Grimaud, visible from Moulin Saint-Roch! Mulled wine, hot chocolate, and roasted marshmallows offered by Grimaud Animations around the mill.

Join us for two days of celebration on the Church Square and around Moulin Saint-Roch on Friday, December 22, and Saturday, December 23, 2023!

Free, open-access activities (except for Saturday lunch, payable in cash, on-site). The complete program is available at the Grimaud Tourist Office.

Sunday, December 24th: Christmas Mass

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Open air markets

Sunday, December 10th: Organic Market


The first 100% organic market in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez will take place in Grimaud on the church square from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM.

The program includes certified organic producers, zero-waste artisans, a « gratiféria » (give-and-take area), a disco soup, and vegetable juice made from surplus produce. There will also be a « shared kitchen » space to raise awareness about food waste.

Come and experience a market like no other, an exemplary market in waste management that highlights a different way of consuming—more responsible and ethical.
Organized by the associations La Vie Autrement.

Saturday, December 16th: Farmer’s Market at Ranch de la Mène

Copyright Ranch de la Mène

Discover producers, artisans, and creators from Var within the educational farm of the Ranch de la Mène.

Enjoy horseback or pony rides as well as the mini-farm between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

Every Thursday: Market in Grimaud Village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Discover the Provencal market in Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the church square.

Source

Real estate in crisis? Certainly not in Port Grimaud!

Despite headlines shouting about falling prices everywhere, take those with a grain of Tsalt. Here in Grimaud, prices are still on the rise, much to the delight of rental investors.

The current real estate situation in France

According to a recent report published by Meilleurs Agents, the real estate market in France has experienced a significant contraction in 2023. Access to credit has become more complicated due to an increase in interest rates, leading to a forecast of fewer than a million transactions for existing homes this year, a 20% decrease compared to 2022. This contraction has resulted in a national decrease in real estate prices by 0.4% over 12 months, a situation unseen in seven years. In the ten largest cities, prices have decreased by 1.1% over the year, with more pronounced drops in certain municipalities. Paris has particularly suffered, experiencing a historic price drop of 4.5% over the year, reaching a total decrease of 7.6% since 2020. Other major cities such as Bordeaux (-8.6%) and Lyon (-8.1%) have also recorded significant declines. The drop in the number of transactions and the deterioration of financing conditions are cited as the main causes of this decline in the real estate market in 2023.

Focus on Grimaud and its Surroundings

However, if we zoom in on the local level, the situation is quite different. The two nearest major cities, Nice and Marseille, have seen their prices soar by 7.9% and 2.2%, respectively, over the same period.

The surge in real estate prices is even more spectacular in Grimaud, as the price per square meter for apartments has increased by an average of 20% over the last 12 months and by 17% on average for houses.

Source: le Figaro. Evolution of the price of apartments in Grimaud
Source: le Figaro. Evolution of the price of houses in Grimaud.

Explanation of the Real Estate Situation in Port Grimaud

How can we explain such a thriving real estate market in Port Grimaud?

To begin with, it’s worth noting that the majority of coastal resort towns in France have experienced an upward trend over the past year in an otherwise somewhat gloomy real estate context.

Among the six major coastal areas, including the English Channel, Brittany, the Atlantic, Languedoc-Roussillon, Corsica, and PACA (Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur), it is the latter two that have fared the best. Indeed, between July 2022 and July 2023, Corsica saw its prices increase by an average of 5.3%, and PACA by 5.2%, according to the MeilleursAgents website. « This prestigious coastline, highly sought after, attracts a clientele less sensitive to borrowing costs, which keeps prices on the rise, » explains Barbara Castillo Rico, Head of Economic Studies at MeilleursAgents. »

Investissement locatif à Port Grimaud
Port Grimaud. Copyright Alexis Toursel

Moreover, Port Grimaud fulfills all the fundamentals for a profitable long-term investment.

Its location on the Mediterranean coast is exceptional, its architectural quality is appreciated by travelers, and its living environment is highly praised.

The fact that there are almost as many moorings as there are residences makes Port Grimaud a paradise for sailing enthusiasts.

With such advantages, it is easy to understand that Port Grimaud is not sensitive to trends but indeed offers an exceptional holiday setting that will continue to appreciate in value over the years.

Events and activities in Grimaud in November 2023

Friday, November 3: Opening of the Joël Cunin exhibition

Copyright Joël Cunin

Painting is an act of love, and for the painter that I am, no subject is more beautiful than the human being, and particularly the female body. These women, as muses and models, through numerous exchanges and sharing, have taught me, among other things, that femininity is not solely about the appearance of the body.

Come and discover the works of this artist during the opening of the exhibition at Maison des Arcades at 6:30 PM.

Exhibition from Nov 7 to Dec 29. Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 1 PM / 4 PM – 7 PM.

Until November 5th: Santonniers Fair

For its fourth edition, Grimaud is hosting the Santonniers Fair at the Arthur Bauchet hall in the Sports Complex des Blaquières until November 5th.

Discover unique creations to enhance your Provençal Christmas nativity scene.

Organized by the ‘Les Amis de la Crèche’ association by Maxime Codou and ‘L’Escandihado de Grimaud’ at the Sports Complex des Blaquières.

Wednesday, November 8: Opening of the Yette Franken exhibition

Copyright Yette Franken

Yette FRANKEN, a watercolor artist, paints what she sees as naturally as she breathes.

Drawing inspiration from the alleys of Grimaud, she has dedicated around thirty unique canvases primarily for the museum, showcasing the colors of Provence.

Join us at the opening of this brand-new exhibition at the Heritage Museum, ‘Grimaud Yesterday and Today,’ at 6:30 PM.

Exhibition from Nov 9 to Dec 29. Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 1 PM / 4 PM – 7 PM.

Friday, November 10: Grimaud Musical Evenings

ttend the concert ‘Bach, father and son: From Baroque to Classical’ featuring François Meyer (oboe) and Thierry Mechler (organ).

François Meyer began his oboe studies at the Mulhouse Conservatory. After furthering his skills at the National Conservatory of Music in Lyon, he held the position of principal English horn in the Rhine Symphony Orchestra and was later appointed as the principal oboe in the Nice Philharmonic Orchestra.

Thierry Mechler is one of the prominent figures in the world of the organ in France and internationally. His numerous awards and international solo career have taken him to all continents.

Full price: €25 / Reduced price: €20. Reservations available here. 6:30 PM at Saint-Michel Church.

Saturday, November 11: Armistice Commemoration

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

Mr. Alain Benedetto, Mayor of Grimaud and Departmental Councilor, along with the entire Municipal Council and the children from Grimaud schools, invite you to join them on this day of remembrance.

11:15 AM: Gathering in front of the Town Hall
11:30 AM: Patriotic ceremony at the War Memorial
12:00 PM: Procession to the cemetery for the laying of flowers on the graves of soldiers who died for France.
12:30 PM: Republican aperitif in front of the Town Hall.

Sunday, November 12: Karting Race

Copyright Grimaud Karting Loisir

Join us at Grimaud Karting Loisir for the Sprint Race.

  • Qualification: 10 min
  • Heat 1: 15 min
  • Heat 2: 15 min
  • Price: €80

Information and reservations with Yohan at 07 86 14 20 29.
Co-organized by Grimaud Karting Loisir & RS Motors 307.

Until November 14: Exhibition ‘Les Poilus Grimaudois’

Copyright Médiathèque de Grimaud

Exhibition of books and 8 wooden silhouettes representing 8 Grimaud soldiers from WWI mentioned on the war memorial at the Grimaud Media Library.

Saturday, November 25: FC Grimaud Bingo Night

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The traditional FC Grimaud Bingo is a truly enjoyable moment of camaraderie. This year, there are numerous prizes to be won: vacations, bicycles, home appliances, gaming consoles… Nearly 200 prizes in total!

The program includes 18 ‘quines’ and 6 full cards. Please note that the event often sells out rapidly, so early booking is recommended.

Doors open at the Sports Complex des Blaquières at 6 PM, and the bingo starts at 7 PM. Refreshments available on-site. Reservation is mandatory via SMS at 06 25 27 37 01.

Tuesday, November 28: Entrepreneur Forum

Copyright ComCom GST

« Entrepreneurs, business creators, startups, and managers of small and medium-sized enterprises… Participate in the Entrepreneur Forum: unique opportunities to start your business, expand your network, and share the experiences of other entrepreneurs!

Don’t miss the 5th edition of the Entrepreneur Forum at the Sports Complex des Blaquières in Grimaud.

This event, organized by the Golfe de Saint-Tropez Community of Municipalities, will provide you with valuable information, advice, good contacts, and other tips from specialists in business creation and development to assist you in your endeavors.

Come and meet experts for valuable advice, participate in workshops and informational meetings, network and expand your professional connections during the Speed Business Meeting.

You will also have the opportunity to approach young entrepreneurs, hear their testimonials, and share their experiences during the presentation of Initiative Var checks, in the presence of elected officials from the Community of Municipalities.

Organized by the Golfe de Saint-Tropez Community of Municipalities from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Throughout the month of November: Workshops by ‘La Vie Autrement’

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Wednesday, November 1st

‘Nature Bath,’ based on the principles of sylvotherapy

From 10 AM to 12:30 PM: Starting from the Grimaud shop, let yourself be guided in silence to the Grand Oak of the Fairy Bridge, awakening the 5 senses. Offered by Sylvie (Forest Ter Happy) by reservation and on a donation basis: 06 78 88 64 48 (subject to weather conditions).

Saturday, November 4, and Sunday, November 5

Weekend dedicated to Nonviolent Communication with Mariette Schifferer: ‘Stop being nice, be real!’ You may contribute between €80 and €120 for both days). At the Grimaud shop.

Monday, November 6 (full)

From 10 AM to 1 PM: Indian vegetarian cooking with Mary Burbaud. You will prepare basic dishes from Indian culinary culture: Curry, Raita, Dhal, Chapatis, Bhajis, Rice… Followed by a tasting. €15/person.

Wednesday, November 8

From 10 AM to 12:30 PM: Zero Waste Sewing Workshop Offered by Nadège, at the association’s location; you will learn to use fabric scraps to create beautiful accessories, pouches, and other useful mini-bags for daily life. Let your imagination express itself! Reservation required: Tel 06 06 59 61 56 (limited to 5 people) €15/person (materials provided).

As part of the European Week for Waste Reduction:

Saturday, November 18

2:30 PM: ‘Recycling and Artistic Creation Workshop’ with Magic Yoga Kids. Open to children and adults, don’t throw away your plastic caps; we will recycle them to create a mandala together. Free and conscious participation. Registration at 06 31 11 72 73.

Wednesday, November 21

10 AM: ‘Cooking with Greens’ Together, with Mary Burbaud.
You will transform vegetable greens that are typically discarded, such as turnip, beet, carrots, radishes, into delicious gratins, soups, and pestos that you will enjoy with Mary. Free and conscious participation. Registration at 06 32 82 65 86.

Saturday, November 25

From 10 AM to 12:30 PM: Zero Waste Sewing Workshop Offered by Nadège, at the association’s location; you will learn to use fabric scraps to create beautiful accessories, pouches, and other useful mini-bags for daily life. Nothing is wasted; everything is transformed! Reservation required (limited to 5 people): Tel 06 06 59 61 56. €15/person (materials provided). »

Source

25th edition of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez: here is what happened


The 25th edition of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez, a must-attend event in the Mediterranean, took place from September 29th to October 8th on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Regattas and encounters were on the agenda, under the dazzling sun of exceptional weather. For ten days, nearly 3000 sailors from all corners of the world crossed paths on land and sea, following their passion and singing their songs. Approximately 250 sailboats were present. Classics, Moderns, Maxis: regardless of their size and rigging, the vessels enjoyed ideal conditions to take on the bay of Saint-Tropez.

Maxi-Yachts, Maximum Thrills

30/09/2023, Saint-Tropez (FRA,83), Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2023, copyright SNST / Gilles Martin-Raget.

A total of forty Maxi-Yachts, measuring up to thirty meters overall, set sail on the water. Nervous, sleek, and airy, these technological marvels offered the audience an unforgettable show. The summer sun and varying winds allowed the crews to showcase their skills against a backdrop of strategy, adjustments, and daring maneuvers. The monohulls left Portalet with all sails hoisted, maneuvering between spectator boats and the whims of Aeolus. Divided into four categories based on their rating and gauge, the Maxis enjoyed some beautiful race days before Cannonball (Maxi A, Byblos Trophy), Lyra (Maxi B, Galeries Bartoux Trophy), Wallyno (Maxi C, Barons de Rothschild Trophy), and Stella Maris (Maxi D, Highfield Trophy) were crowned as winners.

The Moderns

Long-Nose XI, Copyright CNTL Marseille

There were no fewer than 123 sailboats on the starting line in the Modern category. Over several eventful race days, with the wind shifting to the south and crews eager to compete, the four IRC groups delighted spectators with their precision maneuvers and almost lifelike hulls. The water and wind came together to offer them the best playground, culminating in the designation of the 2023 champions: Long-Nose XI (City of Saint-Tropez Trophy and IRC D), Daguet 2 (IRC B), Nanoq (IRC C), Expresso 3 (IRC E), and Eugenia V (Yacht Club de France Trophy).

The Classics

Copyright SNST/Gilles Martin-Raget

With their sleek lines and sharp bows, Classic Yachts pay tribute to the history of navigation, the courage of the early explorers, and the dedicated enthusiasts who lovingly care for them around the maritime world. This year, there were 86 of them on the starting line, including several valiant centenarians! Sloops, schooners, cutters, yawls, and more – a variety of tastes in rigging were represented. Hulls and sails joyfully intertwined under the blue light of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: from the smallest to the largest, each found its place and rhythm. Varuna 1939 emerged as the winner of the highly coveted Rolex Trophy, much to the delight of its German owner, Jens Kellinghusen.

The history of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, an iconic competition

Copyright Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez

The history of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez dates back to the 1980s, when this annual regatta was created by Patrice de Colmont, the owner of the renowned private beach « Club 55 » in Ramatuelle, near Saint-Tropez, France. The event was designed as a celebration of maritime tradition, bringing together classic and modern sailboats in a friendly competition.

Classic Sailboats and Super Yachts

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez attract classic sailboat owners, modern yacht enthusiasts, and super yacht aficionados, creating a unique blend of vessels with diverse designs and eras. The event typically takes place at the end of September and spans around a week.

The primary aim of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is to celebrate the beauty, elegance, and performance of sailboats while upholding maritime traditions. Participants can compete in various categories based on the size, type, and age of their sailboats. The regatta unfolds in the Mediterranean waters around Saint-Tropez, offering thrilling races and camaraderie among sailing enthusiasts.

Copyright R.Catino

The event isn’t solely focused on competition, but also on the spirit of camaraderie and sharing between participants and spectators. Historic and classic sailboats mingle with modern vessels in a festive and convivial atmosphere.

Over the years, Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez has evolved into an institution in the sailing world, drawing sailors and sailing enthusiasts from around the globe. This unique event showcases the diversity and richness of maritime history while celebrating the passion for sailing in all its forms.

Copyright Gilles Martin-Raget


2023 Edition: From September 29th to October 8th

The organization is introducing a fresh approach for this year’s event. Over 250 Maxi, Modern, and Classic yachts from around the world will participate in the event, which will take place from September 29th to October 8th, 2023.

The event’s program has been reimagined, reminiscent of its early days when it was formerly known as La Nioulargue. The Maxis, or super yachts, will kick off the races on October 1st, the first Sunday of the event. This modification will allow the audience to witness the Maxi fleet’s training and observe competitive races between impressive monohulls over 18.28 meters long. The races will occur right in front of the town, providing a spectacle for vacationers.

The racing schedule spans ten days and is structured to accommodate various yacht categories. The Maxis will race on their own on Sunday, alongside the Modern yachts on Monday, and then participate in offshore races from Tuesday to Friday with the entire fleet, including the Classic yachts. A notable feature is the inclusion of a « Rest Day » for the Maxis on Wednesday, during which the « Maxi Club 55 Cup » will take place.

Pierre Roinson, President of the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, highlighted the challenge of designing an event that meets the unique racing needs of each fleet within the allotted time. The goal remains the same: to deliver exceptional races for exceptional boats in the stunning waters of Saint-Tropez.

Benoit de Froidmont, President of the International Maxi Association, praised the return to the event’s original spirit. He emphasized the distinctive mix of Classic and Modern yachts in the Saint-Tropez setting, establishing Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez as a premier gathering for Maxi Yachts on a global scale.

In conclusion, the 25th edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez will introduce a renewed racing format, spanning ten days and encompassing Maxi, Modern, and Classic yachts. The event aims to bring together a century of naval architecture history by combining Classic and Modern yachts in a single setting. This fusion reflects the essence of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, highlighting exceptional races on the water and a vibrant atmosphere on land.

We will publish an article on the 2023 edition of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez at the end of the event.

Seize the Moment: Why Investing in a Port Grimaud Apartment in 2023 is a Thrilling Opportunity!

As of August 2023, the 20-year loan rates have reached an average of 3.84% in France, up from the average of 2.59% in January. Access to credit is tightening for many aspiring property buyers, yet property prices are not showing signs of decline. In this context, many investors are putting certain projects and investments on hold. However, it is precisely under these conditions that the most promising opportunities emerge.

Let’s explore the reasons why investing in real estate in Grimaud (particularly in Port Grimaud) is a wise choice in 2023.

Buy Now, Renegotiate Later

The 20-year loan rates currently stand at 3.84%, and a majority of analysts believe they could reach the symbolic 5% mark by the end of the year. For investors who have experienced rates around 1% or even 2% in recent years, this may be disappointing, and the era of positively cash-flowing properties seems to be ending. Nevertheless, it’s not a catastrophe by any means. In a real estate wealth-building strategy, the goal is to maximize the leverage effect, thus continuing to invest as much as possible. We are incredibly fortunate to live in one of the few countries where fixed-rate loans can be renegotiated when these rates drop. Multi-investors are aware of this and will seize this opportunity.

spacious-apartment-for-rent

Tap into Strong Rental Demand

Of course, a rise in interest rates inevitably accompanies a decrease in the amount one can borrow. This « issue » can be overcome by investing in more modest-sized properties. Let’s take the example of the lakeside town of Port Grimaud. It’s renowned worldwide among sailing enthusiasts who can moor their boats right in front of their homes. However, it’s also a sought-after destination for Provence and Mediterranean lovers who don’t necessarily engage in nautical activities. It must be said that the setting is exceptional, offering a wide variety of activities to explore and villages to visit in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Furthermore, we observe significant rental demand for apartments without moorings in Port Grimaud. Given this scenario, investing in one of these apartments can be highly rewarding. You could indeed become the owner of a 34m2 studio on the ground floor for €270,000 in the Port Grimaud 1 district, or acquire a meticulously designed 4-room apartment optimized for seasonal rentals near the beach, with a listed price of €435,000.

Copyright Boutemy Immobilier


Embrace Timeless Luxury in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Over the decades, the allure of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez has remained steadfast, transcending the glitz and glamour to reveal Grimaud, Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle, and other Gulf villages as magnificent gems of Provençal architecture.

Owning a home or apartment just minutes away from the beach in an idyllic setting with exceptional sunshine is a dream that endures through time. Such properties start at a minimum of 1 million euros and are classified as luxury assets. And as you know, luxury is impervious to crises, especially during challenging times. Neither the pandemic nor the conflict in Ukraine have shaken the confidence of the world’s most affluent individuals.

Take a look at this graph published on the MeilleursAgents website: apartment prices in Port Grimaud have continued to rise by 2.1% over the past 3 months and an impressive 8.7% over the past year.

Apartment price evolution since 2014

The trend is similarly positive for houses, with sales prices increasing by 2.3% over 3 months and an impressive 7.3% over 12 months.

Investing in Port Grimaud is more intelligent and strategic than ever in the context of building a lasting legacy. The demand remains strong, both for buying and renting. Your property will continue to appreciate over time, and if you secure a loan in French banks today, you can always renegotiate your credit when the time is right.

5 stunning beachside restaurants on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Let’s say it on this blog: if the vacationers in Port Grimaud are looking for the natural and authentic side of our village, many of them also enjoy being tempted by the glitz and glamour of the neighboring villages in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez for a day trip. So, here are 5 beach restaurant recommendations that you’ll love.

1. Lily of the Valley

The beach club. Copyright Lily of the Valley

Below the Lily of the Valley hotel, Gigaro Beach gracefully stretches over 6 kilometers of fine sand. At the end of this stretch of sand, where the pine forest takes over, the Lily of the Valley Beach Club has found its haven. It proudly houses two restaurants: Brigantine and Pépé.

Overlooking the waves, the terrace of Brigantine offers an escape, transporting guests to an exotic location.

However, it’s on the golden sands of Gigaro that you can savor a delicious culinary journey through the authentic flavors of Italy, from the mountainous regions of the north to the Mediterranean delights of Sicily.

With their feet in the sand, Pépé’s guests are invited to the heart of a lively Italian village square, where the market hums. Laughter mingles with clinking glasses, while taste buds are charmed by fresh and joyful dishes, as if they were just plucked from the market stalls. Reservations can be made here.

2. Cabane Bambou

Copyright Cabane Bambou


Nestled along a tranquil sandy path by the beach, the Cabane Bambou is a hidden gem of Saint-Tropez. This charming beach hut has transformed into an ecological haven, prioritizing natural materials and solar energy.

Sho Miyashita adds an Asian touch to the menu, featuring dishes like the Karaage fried chicken and a deliciously spicy grilled fish. The atmosphere invites relaxation, with detox juices and various services offered, including sunrise yoga sessions.

The beach offers daily rentals of comfortable relaxation spots, complete with a secret shower behind a wooden screen. A shaded ethnic lounge and a snack bar provide space to dine and unwind. This sustainable paradise, open from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, heralds a new era of environmentally-friendly beaches in Saint-Tropez.

3. Club 55

Copyright Bu Sehail

Founded in 1955 by Geneviève and Bernard de Colmont, Club 55 is a must-visit in Saint-Tropez, with the couple’s children, Véronique and Patrice, ensuring the preservation of its history.

It draws a diverse crowd daily, embodying the spirit of the village. From Hollywood celebrities arriving by boat to art collectors and boho regulars, everyone gathers under the pergolas at tables adorned with Provençal tablecloths to savor the classics of the establishment: Niçoise salad, fresh vegetables, catch of the day, and chilled rosé. The lunch menu offers a variety of à la carte options and a dish of the day, featuring wild-caught fish specialties.

Since its inception, Club 55 has always honored the location and its residents, prioritizing an environmentally respectful ethos. This way of life is reflected in a preference for local suppliers and products. The Domaine des Bouis in Ramatuelle has been producing organic wine, olive oil, vegetables, and fruits for the restaurant for over fifteen years. Furthering this approach, the Château de la Mole farm also supplies produce. A significant portion of the ingredients used are certified organic, and many dishes at Club 55 are plant-based.

4. Playamigos

Copyright Playamigos


Bathed in a sunny ambiance, this place blends natural wood, cacti, straw hats, and ceramics to offer a lunch experience with your feet in the sand.

Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts will be delighted at Playamigos, where striped benches and delicate ceramics create a unique atmosphere, traversing flavors from Greece to Lebanon. On the menu, options include matbucha or royal sea bream tartare for starters, slow-cooked lamb or catch of the day for the main course, and a delicious orange blossom cheesecake to conclude on a sweet note.

5. La Réserve à la Plage

Copyright La Réserve à la Plage

Last summer, La Réserve unveiled a unique culinary experience right by the water’s edge on the famous Presqu’île Beach. Philippe Starck designed a decor enveloped in wicker suspensions, striped ochre and white benches, and Greek ceramics. Visitors can choose to relax in the shade of the canes, dive into the waves, or dine at the restaurant led by Nicolas Cantrel. The Southern cuisine highlights grilled wood-fired fish and seasonally flavored vegetables with Provençal herbs. As the day winds down, the atmosphere becomes more relaxed with shared tapas and delicious cocktails.

Before plunging into the nightlife of Saint-Tropez, this stop is the perfect spot. The atmosphere comes alive in the evening with music and champagne to savor the sweetness of the moment. The stars twinkle in the sky, feet in the sand, in an ambiance like no other.

Embrace the allure of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez through these beachside restaurants. With sun-soaked sands and captivating flavors, each venue offers an unforgettable experience – from tranquil moments to vibrant soirées. Let these culinary havens guide you to an immersive coastal adventure where nature, cuisine, and culture unite under the Saint-Tropez sun.

4 wonderful gardens to discover near Grimaud

Some of my friends love exploring gourmet restaurants while traveling. Others hop around trendy bars, and then there are those who wouldn’t miss the chance to discover a new museum for anything in the world. As for me, I’ve embarked on a journey across France’s most exquisite gardens because they offer moments of delightful wonder and serene tranquility.

So, I’m thrilled to share with you these four gardens located near Grimaud.

1. The Jardin du Rayol at Rayon-Canadel-sur-Mer

Le-maquis-©-Domaine-du-Rayol


The Jardin du Rayol, also known as the Mediterranean Garden, is a true botanical gem nestled along the coastline of Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer. Designed in harmony with the surrounding nature, this landscaped garden takes you on a journey through Mediterranean landscapes from around the world. Exotic and native plants, majestic palm trees, and vibrant flowers blend seamlessly to create a visually and aromatically unique experience.

The garden also offers breathtaking views of the sea, making it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts.

2. The Botanical Garden of Myrtles in Sainte-Maxime


Located in Sainte-Maxime, the Botanical Garden of Myrtles is a little corner of paradise for plant enthusiasts. This private garden is a true green oasis, home to over 250 species of Mediterranean plants, including numerous myrtles (which produce small edible black berries), of course. You’ll also discover olive trees, oleanders, bougainvilleas, and many other species that will enchant your senses. Take advantage of the tranquility of the place to stroll along its shaded paths and breathe in the delightful fragrances of the flowers.

3. The Gassin garden

Copyright Ville de Gassin


Two sisters, Julia and Anne
, have transformed a private space of one and a half hectares on the Saint-Tropez peninsula into a natural garden that preserves biodiversity. Their rose garden is open to the public and houses more than 300 varieties of roses, including 500 old, botanical, and modern rose bushes cultivated without pesticides or chemical products. Visitors can purchase quality plants available at the nursery, thus supporting the garden’s existence. Their approach is environmentally responsible, with natural and waste-free agriculture. The two sisters welcome visitors with educational awareness of their farming methods.

The garden offers an eco-responsible experience of the Saint-Tropez peninsula, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism. Personalized events, workshops, and seminars are also organized for gardening enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. Together, they encourage a sustainable culture based on knowledge sharing and hospitality.

4. The Hardy-Denonain remarkable botanical garden

Entrance to the L’Hardy Denonain Botanical Garden https://gassin.eu/fr/


The Germaine L’Hardy Denonain Botanical Garden
, acquired in 1973 by Germaine L’Hardy-Denonain, is a unique place transformed into a magnificent garden classified as remarkable since 2009. Situated on the Saint-Tropez peninsula, it harbors hundreds of Provencal and Mediterranean plant species. Accessible from the Place deï Barri, across from the restaurant Le Micocoulier, the garden sprawls across 2500 m² with its romantic pathways and staircases amidst the lush terraces. The garden’s model is virtuous, where the sale of rose bushes helps maintain its beauty. Visitors can enjoy a free tour and the warm welcome of Mrs. L’Hardy-Halos, who will passionately share the hidden wonders of the garden.

It is an essential destination for garden enthusiasts, offering an immersion in Mediterranean biodiversity, featuring diverse species such as irises, wild orchids, and cork oaks. Horticultural species like roses add an elegant touch to this botanical paradise. The garden is also a testament to the region’s rich agricultural past, now preserved in a rural environment in harmony with the surrounding old village and nature.

Enjoy your visits and let us know which one you’ve preferred 🙂

Vibrate to the rhythm of concerts in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez during the holidays


The villages of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez offer magnificent settings for festival-goers and music enthusiasts of all ages. If you enjoy dancing, discovering new sounds, and being carried away by the most melodious music performed by talented musicians, here is a selection of concerts and festivals for this month of August.

Thursday, August 3rd: les nuits de la Nartelle in Sainte-Maxime

Copyright duo Hoza


Chani BAUZA, mezzo-soprano, and Pascal HOYER, ten-string guitarist, will be performing in the first part of the event.

The Hoza duo interprets opera and oratorio repertoire in an intimate format, reduced to its purest expression, using their stripped-down instrumentation (ten-string guitar and vocals) to share these magnificent and timeless airs with the audience.

Chani Bauza has always had a passion for singing and a desire to explore all facets of her interpretive personality, first in jazz, sound painting, and world music before turning to lyrical singing. She graduated in chamber music and lyric art from the Conservatory of Aix-en-Provence and has worked with Teresa Berganza at the Villecroze Academy and Panticosa Festival (Spain), at the opera studio in Weimar, and with Regina Werner Dietrich in Leipzig. Her rich and eclectic singing journey has allowed her to develop an approach that emphasizes sensitivity and emotion.

While performing in operas, contemporary creations, and numerous oratorios, she nurtures a special attachment to chamber music and recitals, where her natural expressiveness blossoms. Pascal Hoyer has been studying classical guitar since a young age, developing an early taste for ensemble music and adaptations of Baroque pieces.

In their conception of music as a duo, they seek to create harmony between voice and instrument, creating the most favorable conditions for the soloist’s musical expression while emphasizing a true musical dialogue with precision and mutual listening.

Chani BAUZA & Catherine STERNIS, pianist – Part 2

Catherine Sternis completed her musical studies at the Conservatory of Nice under the guidance of Mrs. Audibert Lambert in the piano class. She received the grand prize of the city of Nice unanimously with the jury’s congratulations for her interpretation of Franz Liszt’s 2nd concerto. She also received her first prize in chamber music. She is the partner of the choirs Calliopée and Cantouvèze conducted by Christine Paillard.

She regularly participates as an organist and pianist in concerts of the European Choir of Provence.

Admission is 25€ (free for children under 16 years old). The concert will take place at the Chapel of Nartelle at 9:00 PM.

Saturday, August 5th: The Nights of Château de la Moutte Festival, Poétiques de l’Instant in Saint-Tropez

In the heart of the palm grove of the Domaine de la Moutte, the festival « Les Nuits du Château de la Moutte » offers classical and world music concerts every summer.

Poetics of the Instant: Recently awarded a Diapason d’or, this subtle program of French music takes us on a poetic journey. In the face of today’s harshness, these moments will be a precious balm for the soul.

Featuring:

  • Jodie DEVOS, soprano
  • Adam LALOUM, piano
  • Quatuor VOCE

This evening is placed under the exclusive patronage of Aline Foriel-Destezet.

Ticket prices: from 30 to 80€. Reservations here.

Source #1 and Source #2.

August 6th, Camille Lellouche will be performing at the Ramatuelle Festival.


Camille Lellouche, an actress, singer, and comedian, began playing the piano at the age of 4 and later took up the viola before aspiring to become a singer at 10. After performing in piano bars, she pursued acting classes at Acting International. While taking on small roles, she embarked on creating her own one-woman show. Camille actively engages on social media, sharing humorous and musical videos, and her breakthrough came when she participated in the French show « The Voice » in 2015.

She also had a stint as a panelist on « Touche pas à mon poste » and then presented her own one-woman show « Camille en Vrai, » where she portrays various female characters. Additionally, she appeared in movies as an actress and joined the team of « Le Quotidien » on TMC in 2017. Moreover, she was voted by the public as the « Song of the Year » at the Victoires de la Musique for her duet « Mais je t’aime » with Grand Corps Malade.

Camille Lellouche now invites us to her « A Tour, » showcasing her debut album « A, » which seamlessly blends classic French chanson with urban pop.

Join us at 9:30 PM at the Théâtre de Verdure.

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Monday, August 7th : the « Concerts plage de l’Escalet » in Ramatuelle

Copyright The Unnamed Feelings

With your feet in the sand at l’Escalet or your head in the stars, come and applaud the band The Unnamed Feelings.

For over a decade, the three rock enthusiasts of « The Unnamed Feelings » have been gracing local stages, motorcycle festivals, pubs, and performance halls of various municipalities in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and its surroundings. Their electric and eclectic rock ambiance covers songs from ZZtop to Metallica, passing through Téléphone, Indochine, and more. A festive and energetic experience with Sébastien Renault on drums, Samuel Barbier on guitar/vocals, and Emmanuel Lefebvre on bass/vocals.

Source

Tuesday, August 8th: Earth Wind & Fire Experience ft. Al McKay at the festival des Grimaldines in Grimaud

The 20th edition of the Grimaldines is going to end with great pomp. An exceptional show by Earth Wind & Fire Experience ft. Al McKay will make you dance until the end of the night to the greatest hits of the band. Sounds that have transcended the ages since the 70s, and no new generation has missed them. Because, as we all know, a party is only good if you’ve let loose to Earth Wind & Fire.

Show performed at la Scène Musicale

We look forward to seeing many of you to heat up the atmosphere of this magical summer evening.

Adult ticket price is €35. The concert starts at 10 PM at the Château de Grimaud.

Source + Reservations.

Wednesday, August 9th: Délices sonores at la Citadelle de Saint-Tropez


The 2023 edition of Délices Sonores will take place on August 9th at the Citadelle de Saint-Tropez. The event boasts an exceptional setting and a lineup of internationally renowned artists, along with local DJs. It has become an unmissable rendezvous, attracting numerous participants, tourists, and locals alike, for an exclusive sonic and visual experience, with the sea as a backdrop and an incredible sunset to make the night even more magical!

Tickets are available for purchase at the Tourist Office on the port.

Please note that there is limited capacity, so early bookings are strongly recommended! Food trucks will be present on-site with seating available for dining.

Source

Wednesday, August 9th: Torchlit Acoustic Concert in Cogolin

Bring your pareo or beach towel, head to the sands of Marines de Cogolin for a torchlit acoustic concert! Enjoy a lovely summer evening with the sounds of instruments and voices from the group Replay, blending various influences such as Jazz, Bossa, Retro, Pop, Rock, Blues, French and International Hits.

Embark on a musical journey encompassing a diverse range of styles, from original compositions to cover songs, spanning from the 60s/70s to the 80s/90s and the present day.

Source

Monday, August 14th: romantic evening at the Jardin du Rayol in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer

Copyright Tanguy de Williencourt


Each summer, the Domaine du Rayol, owned by the Coastal Conservatory, organizes classical and Mediterranean music concerts in an exceptional setting. At the heart of the Mediterranean Garden, facing the sea, renowned artists come to perform the works of the greatest classical composers. The last date is dedicated to a concert of Mediterranean music.

For the 29th edition of the Romantic Evenings, the Domaine du Rayol is privileged to host Tanguy de Williencourt (piano) on Monday, August 14th, 2023, at 9:00 PM.

Tanguy de Williencourt, a young and talented pianist recently graduated from the National Superior Conservatory of Music and Dance, is already a noted soloist and sought-after chamber musician.

Program: Mozart: Fantasy in C minor K.475 Schubert: Three Klavierstücke D.946 Liszt: Second Year of Pilgrimage – Italy.

Source

Monday, August 21st: Chimène Badi will perform a tribute to Edith Piaf

The city of Saint-Tropez is organizing the first music and theater festival « La Moutte entre en scène » from August 20th to 24th, 2023. Five concerts and shows with affordable tickets will feature renowned artists such as Philippe Caubère and Chimène Badi. Who better than Chimène Badi to celebrate Edith Piaf’s 60th anniversary since her passing in 1963?

Chimène shares so many similarities with La Môme (Piaf)! A powerful voice that draws its emotion from the wounds life has inflicted, a personality both strong and hypersensitive, a passion for beautiful words and melodies that linger in the mind and heart.

« I ‘discovered’ Piaf when I was very young, thanks to my mother. I think I was 3 or 4 years old when I got my first Édith cassette. Something happened, I don’t know what it is. I just know that she stirred something quite crazy within me. »

With 20 years of career experience, Chimène is ready to take on the iconic repertoire of the legend.

« It’s a project I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but I always waited for the right moment. I now have the experience and greater confidence in myself, which gives me the desire to finally pay tribute to the one who guided me and taught me so much. Singing Piaf is a challenge … it’s immersing myself in her lyrics, understanding the joy and euphoria, but also the suffering and pain. When I sing Édith, I don’t know why, something pierces through me, taking me elsewhere. It’s passionate! »

In a theatrical setting, Chimène will perform the most iconic songs of Edith Piaf, a repertoire that has given French chanson its nobility.

Source

Is this your first time in Grimaud ?

If you’re coming to Grimaud for the first this year, here are a few things you need to know about Grimaud.

A little bit of history

Ideally located in Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur, between the sea and the forest, Grimaud has existed since the 11th century. Classified as one of the « most beautiful detours in France, » this Provençal village may take its name from a wealthy landowner named « Grimaldi. » The medieval castle, located in the heart of the Massif des Maures, served as a protective stronghold for the population against the plague and bandits. Until the 17th century, the villagers lived behind the castle walls. As the village expanded, it became known as the capital of Freinet, with a population of 1,200 in the 14th century. The commune’s wealth and strategic geographical position made it an important vantage point for monitoring the Gulf of Saint Tropez.

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

During the 17th century, thanks to several water and wind mills, Grimaud achieved food self-sufficiency. The inhabitants produced flour and olive oil, among other things.

In 1966, the commune expanded with the construction of the lacustrine city of Port Grimaud. François Spoerry was the architect behind this project, which was built on former marshland.

Copyright Alexis Toursel for Boutemy Immobilier

The colorful houses have a quay for mooring boats, as well as land access. Thus, a true maritime village was born, complete with shops, a church, and a post office. Known as the « Provençal Venice, » Port Grimaud was awarded the « Heritage of the 20th Century » label in 2002.

Places you should visit

The historic center

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Strolling through the narrow alleys of Grimaud is a true pleasure! The cobblestone streets, the Saint Michel church, the chapels, the wells and squares, as well as the flower-adorned houses, all contribute to the undeniable charm of this Provençal village. In summer, you can even enjoy the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders adorning the facades.

The castle of Grimaud and the « Les Grimaldines » festival

The Castle of Grimaud, copyright Cyril Carpentier

The ruins of the medieval castle can be visited for free at any time of the day. They offer a sublime panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint Tropez and the Massif des Maures.

Every summer, the Grimaldines festival brings this historical monument back to life. World music concerts are organized in the castle courtyard, and street performances take over the old town center. It’s an opportunity to gather people of all ages in a magical place steeped in history.

Eagle-Eye Cherry will be on stage on July 25th, 2023

The trail of Vallon du Pont des Fées

Pont des Fées. Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

This walk instantly transports you to the heart of nature. The Saint-Roch mill, a recently renovated former windmill, serves as the starting point. You will then follow along the river, and before you stands the Pont des Fées (Bridge of the Fairies). It once served to supply water to the village. Along the way, you may come across a Hermann’s tortoise, an endangered species still present in the Var region, particularly in the Maures Massif. Vineyards, olive groves, and Mediterranean scrubland will accompany you throughout the rest of the walk, accompanied by the chirping of cicadas.


The Musée du Patrimoine / The Heritage Museum

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Splendid 16th-century buildings house this museum, which allows you to discover the way of life of the inhabitants of the Gulf of Saint Tropez in the past. Reconstructed scenes and period costumes will immerse you in the history of the village. Temporary exhibitions are regularly organized there. Admission is free.

Beaches

After your cultural outings, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation by the sea. Grimaud boasts numerous sandy beaches, such as Beauvallon, Plage des Cigales, Plage de Guerrevieille, and Plage du Gros Pin.

Concerts and festivals in Grimaud in July 2023

Les Grimaldines: 20th anniversary

The Grimaldines offer an eclectic and high-quality program every year, attracting a wide audience of music lovers. The concerts take place in picturesque locations in the town, such as the castle, village squares, or gardens. These different venues provide a unique atmosphere and contribute to the magic of the festival.

The festival offers a variety of musical styles, ranging from jazz to classical music, world music, and contemporary music. Renowned artists, emerging talents, and local groups perform at the Grimaldines, providing an appreciated artistic diversity for festival-goers.

In addition to the concerts, the Grimaldines offer complementary activities such as art exhibitions, wine tastings, or music workshops. These activities allow you to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere and discover the cultural richness of Grimaud.

It will be Lúcia de Carvalho who will kick off the event on the castle stage on July 18 at 10 p.m.

Copyright Franck Lorioux

Lúcia de Carvalho is an alchemist, a seeker of meaning, and an illuminator of essence. Her voice carries healing and transformative vibrations, while her drum resonates with the voices of ancestors, inviting us to reconnect with our inner selves.

In harmony with rhythm and vocals, she serves the beauty that resides within us and in the world around us. For those ready to cast off, Lúcia de Carvalho’s diverse universe acts as a guiding beacon, urging us to stay the course despite challenges. It’s all there, waiting for us to surrender and embark on the journey.

Then, on July 25, come and applaud Eagle-Eye Cherry, the performer of the renowned hit ‘Save Tonight‘.

Copyright Eagle-Eye Cherry

On the 4th, 7th, 19th, and 22nd of July : musical evenings at La Bastide Blanche.

la Bastide Blanche


Indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the musical evenings at La Bastide Blanche. On July 4th, you can listen to Agnès, on July 7th, Clarisse will perform, on July 19th, Léo will take the stage, and on July 22nd, Jude will entertain you.

Every Monday: ¡LIMBO! evening at After Beach

Copyright After Beach

From Dub to House, and even Latin music, anything goes in the Balearic-themed Monday nights as long as you come with the intention to dance barefoot in the sand.

Following in the footsteps of the carefree Ibiza of the early 80s, ¡LIMBO! is a weekly gathering on a dancefloor liberated by Probably Sean.

With a selection as unpredictable as Mary Poppins’ bag, expect nothing but to wiggle on the dance floor.

To get in the mood early in the morning, you can also tune in to the ¡LIMBO! radio, where Sean has curated a few precious gems.

Grilled food, Mojitos, and ice cream are available on-site. At After Beach from 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

Every Friday: Cartel del Chipo at After Beach

Copyright After Beach

The Cartel Del Chipo is a festival of disco nights in the broadest sense (world grooves, Afro-Latin, soul, etc.) in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, taking place every Friday at After Beach / La Halle De Grimaud.

It’s all the love we have for merguez sausages that we channel into the music.

Just imagine: you order your sausages, you listen closely, and BAM! The music hits you full force, and you fall. Yet your heart keeps beating to the rhythms of the probably amazing (yes, it is!) track by the DJ. You open your eyes and find yourself barefoot in the sand among happy people grooving, even if not everyone is hitting the tempo with their feet, a sausage in one hand, a mojito in the other, and all those mouths telling you, ‘come on and dance!’

You don’t understand, everything is confused. There’s this thing inside you that’s burning, this thing that feels good. Is it your sausage? Your mojito? Are they working together? What if it’s the music? Can it really make eating, drinking, flirting, walking, jumping, sweating better?

While you ponder all these questions, the thing keeps building up, determined to launch you into its Vega Myssil of DISCO. You mingle with the stars, Saturn becomes your buddy, the cosmos your home, and that’s when you understand: that thing is happiness.

With just a few minor differences, that’s what you can expect at each Cartel Del Chipo.

Grilled food, mojitos, and ice cream are available on-site.

Organized by After Beach every Friday from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM

Every Saturday evening: disco house funk at After Beach

Copyright After Beach

The Chipo Family is talking to you. They’re calling you every Saturday to the terrace of After Beach to shake your sausage to tracks as soulful as Pierre-Gabriel’s arrival in the plain of Grimaud (soulful = sunny music = warmth = you dancing barefoot in the sand = us loving you).

With a conversion to organic and glittery red label, the buddies of the Chipo Family have had the opportunity to mature this winter with some truly enjoyable gigs, like at the Good Bar in Brooklyn, Les Caves de Cham’, more recently at the Mas des Escaravatiers, and the list goes on with less famous ones. That’s what you call a good joke that bears fruit.

On the menu, we have family disco, hot Afro-Latin tunes that melt gold in your eyes, and often solar house music that brushes against the stars. You’ll say « WOW! » and we’ll reply « YEAH! » And just for that, it’s worth a visit.

Organized by After Beach every Saturday from 7:00 PM to 12:15 AM.

Every Thursday and Saturday: karaoke at the Monroe’s

Copyright Monroe’s Pub

Have fun at the Monroe’s by performing your favorite songs every Thursday and Saturday from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

Every Thursday, starting July 13: Plage de rock

Copyright les Prairies de la Mer

The love story between Rock and Les Prairies de la Mer has been going on for many years and in 2006, it gave birth to the best it had to offer: the Plage de Rock festival, which takes place on Thursdays from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

It’s because the team of this resort wanted to go big that they decided to bring the most exciting bands of the moment to vacationers and young people in the region throughout the summer.

You will taste the luxury of Plage de Rock up close to the artists and in an incredibly cozy setting. And what a luxury it is…

Lineup:

  • Thursday, July 13th: Young Fathers and PPJ
  • Thursday, July 20th: Flavien Berger and Agar Agar
  • Thursday, July 27th: Jan Verstraeten and Kids Return

Source: Grimaud Tourisme

Animations and events in Grimaud in July 2023

6th edition of ‘Partir en livre’


For this 6th edition, on the theme of Freedom, various workshops will be offered: artistic workshops, storytelling, and theatrical reading.

This national event aims to promote reading during the summer period.

Wednesdays, July 5th, 12th, and 19th, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Theatrical storytelling. Free admission. Médiathèque (Media Library)

Friday, July 7th, at 6:30 PM Theatrical reading of « L’inventeur » (The Inventor) by Miguel Bonnefoy, performed by the Cie du Théâtre du Lézard. Free admission. Salle de conférence Beausoleil (Beausoleil Conference Hall)

Saturday, July 8th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Artistic workshop « Marbrure à conter » (Marbling and storytelling) facilitated by Sandra Fantino. For ages 7 and above. Free with registration at 04 94 43 29 02.

From July 6th to 9th: Rire aux étoiles Theatre Festival

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

For its third edition in Grimaud, the « Rire aux étoiles » Theatre Festival will take place under the gazebo in Place Neuve for four open-air evenings, providing an opportunity to laugh under the stars with three professional troupes to discover with your family. It’s a new irresistible festival!

Thursday, July 6th: « Chéri, j’ai invité mon ex » by Compagniie des Estérelles.

Friday, July 7th: « Divorce à la marseillaise » by Madame Antoine.

Saturday, July 8th: « Ado un jour, à nos toujours » by Comédie Triomphe.

Sunday, July 9th: « Vous pouvez embrasser la mariée » by Comédie Triomphe.

Organized by CRET de Grimaud. Performances start at 9:30 PM.

From July 7th to 9th: International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament

Copyright Pixabay

The Rhythmic Gymnastics & Funk Jazz Club of Grimaud is pleased to invite you to its summer tournament.

The tournament is open to all French and foreign clubs. Team competition: 1 ensemble or duo + 2 individuals. Regional to National level for gymnasts born in 2014 or earlier. All participants will receive a reward and medal.

Single rate of €6. At the Blaquières sports complex. For more information, call 06 10 41 56 88.

Friday, July 14th: National Day Ceremony

Copyright Cyril Carptentier

Meet at 11:15 am on the forecourt of the Town Hall.

In the evening, there will be a celebration in the village!

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The exciting evening of July 14th awaits you in Grimaud: street theater, a complimentary red, white, and blue aperitif, and a fantastic guinguette party… There’s something for everyone, all ages, and all tastes!

Starting at 7:00 pm, more than 30 actors will take to the streets of Grimaud to bring to life some real stories and anecdotes from Grimaud’s revolutionary past, sourced from the municipal archives! Just follow the signs in the streets and let yourself be guided!

At 9:00 pm, enjoy a sweet cocktail on the house: choose between blue, white, or red!

And finally, at 9:30 pm, put on your 1950s outfits and head to the Place Neuve in the village of Grimaud for the most lively event of the year: « La Guinguette de Grimaud. »

The venue will be completely transformed for this occasion, with charming « gingham » decorations and straw bales that will bring back nostalgic memories for the older generation. The band « Red Hot Chili Guinguette » will keep us dancing all night long with their talent, accordion melodies, and vibrant atmosphere! It’s a delightful and energetic guinguette experience you won’t want to miss!

Of course, there will be a mouth-watering food corner at the heart of the event. You can bring your own picnic or indulge in the delectable treats prepared on-site, including the classic moules/frites served by the renowned restaurant Le Clem’s and the sweet and savory delights crafted by the master pastry chef Lesserteur!

Tuesday, July 18th: Provence Pink Day

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

The first Grimaldines evening is, as always, an opportunity to taste Provence rosés and, above all, to meet the Young Farmers Association of Var in a pleasant atmosphere.
Join us at Place Neuve from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Saturday, July 18th: The Grimaldines, Lúcia de Carvalho

Copyright Franck Lorioux

This first evening will be themed « South America, » and Lúcia de Carvalho will kick off the event on the castle stage at 10 p.m.

As always, the show starts in the streets at 7 p.m. Food trucks and restaurants will be available on-site.

Lúcia de Carvalho is an alchemist, a seeker of meaning, and an awakener of essence. Her voice transmits healing and transformative vibrations, while her drum gives voice to the ancestors, inviting us to reconnect with our deep essence.

Voices and rhythms come together in the service of beauty: the beauty within us and the beauty that surrounds us. For souls ready to set sail, Lúcia de Carvalho’s blended universe acts as a beacon that encourages us to stay on course despite the winds and tides. It’s all there. Just let yourself be carried away. Ticket price: €20.

Thursday, July 20th and 27th: Cinema at the Castle

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

For the third edition of the « Ciné au Château » festival, let’s sing and dance to the theme of Musical Biopics, featuring 4 classic films of the genre on a 7-meter screen at the heart of Grimaud Castle, which will be transformed into an open-air cinema for magical evenings!

And of course, for the food enthusiasts, confectionery will be available for purchase on-site.

Here’s the program:

  • Thursday, July 20th: « ELVIS » by Baz Luhrmann Starring Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Olivia DeJongeThe film portrays the life and musical journey of Elvis Presley through the lens of his complex relationship with his mysterious manager, Colonel Tom Parker. It explores their dynamics over two decades, from the singer’s rise to unmatched stardom, against the backdrop of cultural shifts and America’s loss of innocence.
  • Thursday, July 27th: « LA MÔME » by Olivier Dahan Starring Marion Cotillard, Gérard Depardieu, Jean-Pierre MartinsFrom her childhood to her fame, from victories to wounds, from Belleville to New York, discover the exceptional journey of Edith Piaf. Through a destiny more incredible than any novel, delve into the soul of an artist and the heart of a woman. Intimate, intense, fragile, and indestructible, devoted to her art to the point of sacrifice, she is the most immortal of singers…

Free admission. Open seating. Doors open at 9 p.m. – Screening starts at 9:30 p.m.


Tuesday, July 25th: The Grimaldines, Eagle-Eye Cherry

Copyright Eagle-Eye Cherry

This second evening will be themed « North America, » and Eagle-Eye Cherry will delight us on the castle stage at 10 p.m.

As always, the show starts in the streets at 7 p.m. Food trucks and restaurants will be available on-site.

The son of jazz trumpeter Don Cherry and younger brother of singer Neneh Cherry, Eagle-Eye Cherry was immersed in the musical world from an early age. He spent part of his childhood on the road, accompanying his father on tour, which sparked his passion for music and the artist’s life.

At the age of twelve, he attended the drama school in New York and remained in the city until he was 26, exploring various roles as an actor (he made several film appearances, including in 1991 in « The Doors, » a film directed by Oliver Stone and being screened this summer in Grimaud as part of « Ciné au Château »), as well as joining several bands as a drummer.

Full price ticket: 25 euros, reduced price ticket: 20 euros.

Exhibitions

Exhibition « Ti’Ou from Ocean to Art »

Copyright Ti’ou

Ti’Ou, an artist also known as Virginie Devin, invites us to share her wondrous vision of marine beauty that needs to be preserved. As an « artist-explorer » of the underwater world, Ti’Ou is captivated by the ocean’s life and conveys her passion through the creation of paintings and sculptures that enhance marine life. Her artworks intertwine natural materials, such as cracked clay, wood, steel, oxidized bronze with verdigris, crystals, and glass. Through her art, she aims to inspire awe and raise awareness about the fragility and preservation of this suspended universe. The forms and colors that adorn her artworks are the intellectual and idealistic extensions of the artist. Her thematic contrast is reflected in the interplay between the abstract and figurative, the matte texture of velvet and the sparkling brilliance of glass, and the micro and macro aspects of the ocean world.

Ti’Ou pushes the reality of each individual to its limits and inspires reflection. Her unique « blue » signature has gained recognition, and her works have been exhibited in prestigious venues and renowned galleries. The press has covered many of her events, and she has received the Luxembourg Art Prize 2022 for artistic merit. Additionally, she is the founding president of Terre de Vrai, an association dedicated to raising environmental awareness among children.

You can explore her exhibition at Hôtel Suffren de Port, Grimaud, open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Exhibition of photos « The Massif des Maures » by Patricia Renoux

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

« You rise before me, wild and profound, mountain once covered with pines and chestnut trees, so beautiful, so secretive, so alive, and I, fading away.

Among heather and lavender, I wander through your silent maquis, where slabs and rocks of pink or reddish-orange sandstone emerge with the rhythm of your breath. Mysterious paths, at the turn of a fragrance, reveal your entire splendor to me.

Your roots dig into the dusty path so that the sketch of an eternal connection sings to my ear. I dedicate this testimony of our love to you, as well as to all the good people who work to preserve your dignity. » – Artist’s statement.

Organized by the Culture and Heritage Department at the Heritage Museum, open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Monumental exhibition in Grimaud

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Come and discover an exhibition of monumental sculptures throughout the municipality and enjoy the combination of art and heritage during your visit to the village.

The Exhibition of Monumental Sculptures transforms the municipality of Grimaud into a privileged venue for public and outdoor artistic expression every year. Starting from spring, like a blossoming, the sculptures will emerge in the alleyways and squares, extending even to the exhibition hall of the Maison des Arcades. The exhibition concludes in autumn, leaving the winter season to prepare for new artists and new artworks to be discovered.

Grimaud Urban Art

Grimaud Urban Art, 2021. Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

This year, the municipality of Grimaud honors female street artists as part of a dedicated festival with the theme « Urban Art in the Feminine. » The artists enjoy great freedom, making each creation a delightful surprise at every street corner and façade in the village of Grimaud and Port Grimaud. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the works of Nadège Dauvergne, Claire Courdavault, Mademoiselle Maurice, Emyarts, Ladybug, Sabrina Beretta, Carole B, Agathon, Petite Poissonne Hydrane, Olivia Paroldi, and Sylvie Barco.

Guided tours

Guided tours of Grimaud and Port Grimaud are available every Wednesday.

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Embark on a guided tour of Grimaud and Port Grimaud with a small train ride!

Meet at 9:30 am at the village of Grimaud on Place Neuve to begin the tour, then hop on the small train to continue your morning of exploration in Port Grimaud.

Formerly the capital of Freinet, which has been developing since the year one thousand around the dominating castle, the medieval village of Grimaud is rich in its heritage, carefully preserved by its inhabitants throughout the years. To understand how the village has evolved throughout history, wander through its flower-filled alleyways and charming squares, featuring its castle, Romanesque church, mill, and chapels.

Born from the vision of architect François Spoerry, Port Grimaud has been developed since 1964 to fulfill every sailor’s dream: owning a house with their boat moored at the end of their garden. This Provençal and Mediterranean-inspired lake town is now recognized as a « 20th-century Heritage » by the Ministry of Culture. The tour will introduce you to the secrets of its construction and architecture.

Reservation is mandatory at the Tourist Office.

Guided tour of Port Grimaud every Wednesday

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Born from the vision of one man, architect François Spoerry, Port Grimaud began its development in 1964 to fulfill every sailor’s dream: owning a house with their boat moored at the end of their garden.

This Provençal and Mediterranean-inspired lake town is now recognized as a « 20th-century Heritage » by the Ministry of Culture. The visit will introduce you to the secrets of its construction and architecture.

Let’s meet at 11:15 am at the end point of the small train to begin the tour.

Reservation is mandatory at the Tourist Office. Every Wednesday from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm at a rate of 8 euros.

Open air markets

Market in Port Grimaud I

The market in Port Grimaud takes place every Thursday and Sunday mornings. Like an emblem in Provence, markets are an essential meeting place. One can imagine the colors, the scents… and the delicious dishes that can be prepared with all the fresh ingredients! What could be better than shopping in the heart of the Provençal Venice that is Port Grimaud? Take the opportunity to discover a market in Provence during your visit to Port Grimaud…

Market in Grimaud village

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme


Markets are a must in Provence. Find the Provençal market in Grimaud every Thursday morning from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on the church square.

Fish market and live jazz concert

Copyright After Beach

It’s a gathering that takes place every Sunday, combining highly skilled musical performances from 19 different brands throughout the summer and an exceptionally rich selection of grilled fish at the After Beach // the fishmonger’s stall at La Halle de Grimaud.

Here’s how it works: you choose your fish or seafood directly from the stall, it gets weighed to determine the price, and in the next moment, it’s cooked for you. Then, you take your seat for a full band jazz LIVE performance by incredibly talented musicians.

Organized by After Beach, every Sunday from 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm.

Market in Port Grimaud South

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Come and enjoy a pleasant small market at Place François Spoerry in Port Grimaud II. Discover gourmet products to prepare delicious meals in a friendly atmosphere. Every Wednesday, at Place François Spoerry, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Sunday, July 9th: Organic market

Copyright Alice Fauchet


The first 100% organic market in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez will take place in Grimaud on the church square.

The program includes certified organic producers, zero waste artisans, a gratiféria (a place to exchange goods for free), a disco soup, and vegetable juices made from surplus produce. There will also be a « shared kitchen » space to raise awareness about food waste.

Come and experience a market like no other, an exemplary market in terms of waste management that highlights a different way of consuming, one that is more responsible and ethical.

Organized by the association « La Vie autrement » (A Different Life).

Source : Office du Tourisme de Grimaud.

Traditional Festivals in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

The Gulf of Saint-Tropez takes pride in its history and Provençal heritage, which are celebrated throughout the year. By a fortunate coincidence, numerous festivals (« fêtes ») are celebrated in the month of June. Here are a few of them.

June 15 : la Bravade des Espagnols in Saint-Tropez

Copyright Ville de Saint-Tropez

A Bit of History: In 1618, the Thirty Years’ War broke out. However, it was only in 1635 that France declared war against the Habsburgs (Spain and Austria), and the Spanish offensive did not take long to come.

The defense of Saint-Tropez in the event of an attack was organized jointly by the military authority and the council of the community…

On June 15, 1637, twenty-one Spanish galleys entered the gulf and headed towards Saint-Tropez with the intention of destroying four royal vessels that had come to the port for repairs. The battle lasted for three hours and ended in the defeat of the Spanish, who were unable to sink the ships of the French King. Aware of the significance of this battle, the people of Saint-Tropez, on July 12, 1637, decided in a community council meeting « to thank Almighty God for the grace and favor He granted us on the fifteenth day of last June morning, for giving us the strength to defend ourselves against the attack by twenty-one Spanish galleys, which fought against us for about three hours. Therefore, the council requests that it be decided that from now on, on that day, a celebration will be held in this place, including a general procession as an act of gratitude… »

Friday, June 23rd: Saint-John’s bonfire in Grimaud

Copyright Cyril Carpentier


Join the traditional Saint John’s procession!

It will start from the square in front of the town hall at 6:00 p.m., carrying the flame to the Chapel of Notre-Dame de la Queste, where the mass will be celebrated at 7:30 p.m. This ceremony will be an opportunity to bless the bundles of wood and ignite the Saint John’s fire. This Provençal evening will conclude with a sardinade, a traditional dish from Mediterranean regions, offered to all residents of Grimaud by the Town Hall!

Saturday, June 24 : Saint-John’s Day in Rayol-Canadel sur Mer

The Festival Committee of Rayol Canadel sur Mer invites you to a barbecue evening, with only drinks at your charge and available at affordable prices!

The program includes performances of songs and dances by the children from Lou Calen School. Afterward, both young and old can try to climb to the top of the greasy poles to catch surprises. Additionally, everyone will have the opportunity to attempt jumping over the Saint John’s bonfire!

The theater company Théâtre du Lézard will provide musical entertainment for this evening, symbolizing the celebration of the summer solstice.

P.S: It is said that jumping over the fire ensures lovers that their love will last throughout the year.

Saturday, June 24 : Saint-John’s Day in Sainte-Maxime

Copyright : Office du Tourisme de Sainte-Maxime

The Feast of Saint John is an iconic celebration, originally pagan, and it is duly celebrated in Sainte-Maxime. Saint John’s Day represents the celebration of the summer solstice! In other words, the arrival of the summer season, which occurs on June 21st.

Did you know? Saint John’s Day derives from the sun worship that has been celebrated since ancient times! So, no time to waste! Let’s celebrate the sun, summer, and life in Sainte-Maxime with the folk group « Leï Magnoti » and the « Fifres et Tambours » who will bring rhythm to this colorful evening!

Provisional program:

  • 8:30 p.m.: Free distribution of lanterns to children on the square in front of the Town Hall.
  • 9:00 p.m.: Arrival of the flame from Mount Canigou, authorities’ speeches followed by a lantern procession in the city center.
  • 9:45 p.m.: Arrival of the procession at the Magnoti Square, traditional dances followed by the grand Saint John’s bonfire on Luc Provensal Beach (city center).
  • 10:30 p.m.: Fireworks over the sea.
  • 10:40 p.m.: Ball at the Théâtre de la Mer.

The lantern parade is a lovely ceremony in which children accompany the procession, each carrying a lantern in their hands. Have your children participate in the lantern parade of Sainte-Maxime: Limited number of places, mandatory registration from June 1st to June 22nd through the website www.sainte-maxime.fr.

Sunday, June 25 : The Windmill Feast in Grimaud

Copyright Cyril Carpentier

At the end of June, the celebration is in full swing around the Saint-Roch Windmill. During a morning, come and discover the history of the mill, and see how wheat used to be threshed.

A lovely festival in the company of our beautiful and peaceful mill: demonstrations, folk dances, a mini-farm, ponies, carriage rides… A wonderful family day!

The celebration is in full swing around the Saint-Roch Windmill. During a morning, come and discover the history of the mill, and see how wheat used to be threshed. Taste the freshly baked bread, thanks to the Escolo deï Sambro, who enlivens this morning.

It’s also an opportunity to understand the functioning of windmills or watermills, thanks to heritage guides. The little Saint-Roch chapel is also open on this occasion. There are also folk dances by the Escandihado group and the Tambourinaires de Provence.

  • Wheat threshing demonstration, bread making, and tasting
  • Continuous visits to the Saint-Roch Mill
  • Mini farm
  • Pony rides
  • Aperitif

Thursday, June 29 : Saint-Peter’s Day in Sainte-Maxime

Copyright Ville de Sainte-Maxime

In accordance with tradition, our local fishermen will honor Saint Peter, the Patron Saint of fishermen, on June 29th. To end the evening on a flavorful note, there’s nothing better than a Sardinade… Accompanied by the famous « guinguette » evening!

Provisional program:

  • 6:30 p.m.: Mass at the Church
  • 7:00 p.m.: Procession through the old town from the Church to the pier of the Capitainerie
  • 7:45 p.m.: Procession at sea and blessing of the boats
  • 8:15 p.m.: Continuation of the procession from the Capitainerie to the Magnoti Square
  • 8:30 p.m.: Traditional dances by the folk group Leï Magnoti and lighting of the « Pointu » (traditional fishing boat) on Luc Provensal Beach in the city center
  • 9:00 p.m.: « Guinguette » evening and Sardinade (sardine barbecue) on the Olivier Bausset pier

Reservations and ticketing for the Sardinade are available at the Tourist Office or online. 3 sardines for €5, 6 sardines for €9. Dress code: Striped sailor shirts.

Thursday, June 29 : Saint-Peter’s Day in Saint-Tropez

Copyright Ville de Saint-Tropez

As is customary, the Friends of the Bravade and the fishermen of Saint-Tropez will celebrate Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen and seafarers.

  • 9:15 p.m.: Gathering in front of the parish church for the torchlight procession through the old town.
  • 10:30 p.m.: Parish church, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

Sources :
– Grimaud
– Rayol-Canadel sur Mer
– Sainte-Maxime
– Saint-Tropez

Holiday rental scams: be careful!

In an article published earlier this month, Var Matin reported on a scam targeting holidaymakers in the Var region.

Two individuals from Lyon were apprehended by the urban security brigade of Fréjus as part of an investigation into a holiday rental scam in Saint-Raphaël, according to police sources. They are suspected of taking part in a fraud based on the publication of fake holiday rental offers. 

The case follows complaints from five people to the Fréjus police station. These individuals realized that the apartment they had rented for their holiday in Saint-Raphaël was a scam and had to find a last-minute solution. Investigators managed to identify the two suspects as well as 49 victims in different regions of France, with the total damage amounting to several tens of thousands of euros. The two individuals implicated are believed to have acted as intermediaries between the victims and an unidentified sponsor, in exchange for a monthly fee of 300 euros. The sponsor allegedly collected the cash sums. The properties offered were authentic on a peer-to-peer rental site, but were diverted by the scheme’s authors.

To protect yourself against this type of scam, using a real estate agency with several apartments under management can be a reassuring solution.

Renting your holiday apartment through a real estate professional has many advantages:

Solid advice

The real estate agent will take the time to understand your specific needs (location, type of accommodation, desired amenities, budget) to better guide you. Rental sites like ours often have advanced search engines that allow you to filter results according to your criteria, and you can also contact a real estate agent for additional information. If you prefer a more personal approach, you can also visit the agency. In any case, the rentals offered have been verified and managed by professionals who ensure cleaning and repairs (if necessary) between each tenant, so that you can enjoy your stay in peace. Moreover, your interlocutor, who knows the region and the rental, will be present on site to inform you, give you advice on activities to do in the surroundings and the functioning of the co-ownership.

Emergency management

In case of a problem during your stay, an agency will be available to intervene and call an emergency plumber or replace a defective appliance. If there is a problem that could ruin your holiday (an unusable pool when you rent in August, for example), the agency will contact the owner to negotiate compensation in case of a proven problem.

Comfortable rentals, similar to hotel standards

It can be risky to rent a holiday home between individuals because each owner has their own vision of what is comfortable, luxurious, or clean. Some may exaggerate the features and benefits of their accommodation. To avoid unpleasant surprises, know that a rental agency verifies the characteristics of the accommodation and ensures that they meet the required quality standards, especially if the accommodation is classified. Agencies can also offer additional services such as rental of sheets, linens, daily cleaning service, or provide everything needed to welcome a baby, which may not be the case with a rental between individuals.

So be careful when booking your holiday rental online.
Nicolas Caravokiros, head of the East district of the departmental security department, suggests « checking if the ad has not been reported on forums specializing in scams ». « You should prioritize phone contacts and not hesitate to question your interlocutor, for example, about the distance of the accommodation from the beaches, the shops present in the area, etc. »

To avoid the hassle of all these procedures, real estate agencies offering apartments or houses for rent during vacations are preferred contacts.

5 ideas for a romantic weekend in Port Grimaud

Port Grimaud is a perfect romantic destination for a weekend getaway to relax and explore the beauty of the French Riviera.

Here are five ideas for a weekend for two in our lakeside city:

1. A boat ride

Copyright Open Boat

Port Grimaud has canals running through it (hence its nickname « Provençal Venice »), making it an ideal place for a romantic boat ride. From April to late October, rent an electric boat for 30 to 60 minutes (€30 for 30 minutes) and cruise along the picturesque canals of Port Grimaud.

If you prefer luxury and exclusivity, you can also rent a private boat for two. You may contact Europe Boat on our behalf. We’ve been recommending their services for years.

There’s nothing more romantic than relaxing on a boat with your loved one, admiring the scenery, and savoring a glass of wine.

2. A Romantic dinner

Copyright La Table du Mareyeur

There are many romantic restaurants in Grimaud where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local specialties while taking in the waterfront view. For a refined dinner, try La Table du Mareyeur, a high-end seafood restaurant with breathtaking views of the harbor. We also recommend La Table des Oliviers for tasting local dishes in a romantic and friendly atmosphere. The gourmet restaurant Les Santons offers a warm and intimate atmosphere.

3. A day at the beach

Plage du Moulin in Port Grimaud

Port Grimaud has beautiful sandy beaches where you can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the view of the Mediterranean Sea. The most popular beaches in the area are the Port Grimaud Sud beach and the Cigales beach.

Go for a swim, take a romantic stroll on the beach at sunset, or simply set up a picnic on the sand. You can also explore the surrounding beaches, such as the iconic Pampelonne beach, accessible by car or bus.

4. Discover Saint-Tropez

Wikimedia Commons

Port Grimaud is located just a few kilometers from Saint-Tropez, a village famous for its luxury shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively nightlife. You can spend a day exploring the cobbled streets of the old town, visiting the famous Provençal market, or admiring the yachts in the port. If you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Saint-Tropez, take a trip to the famous Nikki Beach club or have a drink at Sénéquier, an iconic café located on the port. We highly recommend you try their nougat and Tarte Tropézienne.

5. A romantic picnic

For a quiet day with your loved one, you can prepare a romantic picnic and enjoy it on the banks of the canal, taking in the view of the colorful houses of Port Grimaud.

Don’t forget to buy delicious local products at the Port Grimaud market. They are of high quality (Port Grimaud markets are not « tourist traps ») and are an excellent way to discover the specialties of the region. You can also get local wine to accompany your romantic picnic.

In summary, Port Grimaud is an ideal romantic destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you prefer to relax on the beach, explore the picturesque canals, or enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, you will find plenty of activities to delight your partner.

Thanks to its proximity to Saint-Tropez, you can also explore this iconic village on the French Riviera and enjoy its lively nightlife.

Vacationers love these 5 restaurants open all year round in Grimaud

While the French Riviera enjoys mild temperatures this February and attracts vacationers with its parades and carnivals, it’s still the winter season. And the winter season often means rest for restaurant owners, who recharge before a busy season with an extremely fast pace. As a result, not all businesses and restaurants are open year-round.

Here is a list of the top 5 vacationer-favorite restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food in Grimaud this February. To establish this ranking, we referred to the Tripadvisor ranking.

1. Pizza Leone

Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Located on the coastal road, the pizzeria offers a varied menu of deliciously topped pizzas with high-quality ingredients for an average price of €14. The most popular pizza is the calzone. The restaurant is praised for its « excellent and hearty pizzas » as well as its « super friendly owner. »

2. Restaurant la Fontaine

Copyright Restaurant la Fontaine

The restaurant offers authentic Provençal cuisine. In a refined setting, you can indulge in house specialties such as petit pois gaspacho, seared squid with parsley, lamb shank, or Charolais beef burger. Customers love the « fresh products prepared with love by the owner » as well as the « lovely staff ».

3. La table de Didier

Copyright la Table de Didier

Here, the chef’s name is not Didier but Philippe, and he runs the restaurant with his wife Karen. While the menu is varied, it is the high-quality meats that particularly make the reputation of this friendly establishment. The daily specials are posted on the restaurant’s Facebook page. Guest reviews are enthusiastic, describing it as a « wonderful gustatory experience, » « excellent cuisine from starter to dessert, » and « very pleasant staff. »

4. Les Santons

Copyright les Santons

The restaurant offers high-end French gastronomy and will delight the most gourmet among you. For €63, you will enjoy gravlax salmon as an appetizer, a ballotine of Bresse chicken stuffed with foie gras, and a pear and quince charlotte for dessert. A traveler recalls « a fabulous discovery menu and a perfect choice of wine ». Another mentions an « unforgettable pleasure for the taste buds ».

5. Chez Jeff & Ju

Copyright chez Jeff & Ju

Jeff & Ju is a tapas bar and a restaurant that serves homemade shareable dishes. It is currently open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, and for lunch only on Sundays. The key word here is conviviality. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with family or friends in a beautifully decorated setting. Customers rave about « fresh, authentic, and delicious dishes » as well as the « sunny terrace in the heart of the village ».

Dear travelers who are visiting us before tourist season that will resume in April, we hope this selection of good addresses will be useful during your winter stay in the region. As you can see, these restaurants are all very different, and that’s even better because there is something for every taste and budget.

Top 5 things to do in Saint-Tropez in January

Reserved rights.

Saint-Tropez is often associated with stars, sparkle, and yachts, but let’s not forget that what charmed Brigitte Bardot 65 years ago was the simplicity and beauty of this small Provençal fishing port.
This, if you want to enjoy its authenticity, what better season than the winter season?

On the one hand, Saint-Tropez is a village that lives year-round. This means that most businesses are open, even in the winter.
On the other hand, the mildness of our Mediterranean climate allows us to enjoy temperatures above ten degrees on average in January, February, and March.
Of course, you won’t go swimming, but you can wander through the village with a light coat and even dip your feet in the water if you wish.
Finally, visiting a vacation spot out of season allows you to familiarize yourself with its neighborhoods, beaches, and restaurants and thus prepare for your summer vacation.

Here are 5 activities to do in Saint-Tropez in January:

1. Wander through the streets of the village

Copyright Shaymen99

If you go to the Tourist Office, you can of course be advised on the streets and monuments not to be missed, but I find it more pleasant to start with an unplanned visit. Simply to soak up the atmosphere of the place, without expecting anything, hoping for nothing. You will notice details that you will find in no travel guide but that touch you personally.

2. Visit the Annonciade Museum

Reserved rights.

It houses a collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings and often highlights artists from the region. The port of Saint-Tropez, which was « discovered » or rather brought to the forefront of the pictorial scene by Paul Signac in 1982, is represented by illustrious painters including Signac, as well as Édouard Vuillard, Pierre Bonnard, Henri Matisse, Maurice de Vlaminck, and Robert Delaunay. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

3. Take a boat ride along the coast and enjoy the view of the sea

Copyright la Pouncho

The cold light of the winter sun gives a particular radiance to the Great Blue. Several companies offer marine excursions in various formats. For example, La Pouncho company offers a ride on the boat with a champagne tasting at sunset every Wednesday in January.

4. Walk to la Môle a few kilometers away

Reserved rights

The village is the starting point for many hikes that allow you to discover beautiful panoramas of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. There is also a castle in which Antoine de Saint-Exupéry grew up until the age of 7. 

The author of The Little Prince once said: « When I was a little boy, I lived in an old house and the legend said that a treasure was buried there. Of course, no one ever knew how to discover it, or perhaps even searched for it. But it enchanted the entire house. My house hid a secret at the bottom of its heart… Whether it be a house, the stars, or the desert, what makes their beauty is invisible! »

5. Discover the culinary specialties of the region

They include bouillabaisse, vegetable tian, and of course, the famous tarte tropézienne.

The story goes that the recipe comes from the Polish grandmother of a baker and pastry chef named Alexandre Micka. It was Brigitte Bardot who suggested the name of this pastry during the filming of the mythic film And God Created Woman in 1956.

Today, three artisan baker and pastry chefs each offer their own interpretation of the tropézienne:

New farm-out contracts in Port Grimaud

Copyright Alexis Toursel

Merger of four ports into one since January 1, 2022

The lakeside town of Port Grimaud was built in three phases under the aegis of visionary architect, François Spoerry.

Upon completion of each of the districts, Port Grimaud I, II, III, a port concession contract was concluded by the State in order to allow owners to have access to mooring in front of their homes.

Additionally, the communal port of 70 moorings created by the SNPG (Société de Navigation de Port Grimaud) has been directly operated by the Municipality since November 9, 2009.

The concession contracts were due to expire on December 31, 2025 for Port Grimaud I and II and on December 31, 2028 for Port Grimaud III.

They were terminated in advance and the Municipality of Grimaud took over all port services on January 1, 2022.

The objectives of this merger are as follows: 

  • to provide a single port to all users, whoever they may be
  • to ensure the completion of certain essential projects, such as the removal of sand from the pass entrance outside the concession
  • to combine the expenses currently incurred separately by the 4 operators
  • to standardise tariffs, farm-out contracts, operating sub-contracts, etc.

All Port Grimaud residents and boaters received an information letter in January on this subject. This letter, which you can read in its entirety on the Grimaud Town Hall website, indicates among other things the appointment of Mr. Peter Murray-Kerr as Port Director.

In addition, the letter intended for farmees states that new contracts will have to be signed.

Procedure for Port Grimaud co-owners

The year 2022 is a year of transition. In the anticipation of being able to sign a long-term occupancy contract (up to 35 years), you are invited to sign a contract for the year 2022.

There are two types of contracts: 

  • the mooring contract (for the entire year of 2022)
  • the winter season contract (for the period of January 1 to April 30, 2022)

Both are available on the City Council’s website.

There will be an information desk set up between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm at the Capitainerie on Wednesday, April 6th and 20th, and again at the “Bureau de la régie” in Port Grimaud 2 on Wednesday, April 13th and 27th.

If you are unable to reach the information desk in person, you can contact the Capitainerie by telephone at 04 94 56 29 88.

What will change?

These new contracts will allow owners to have one representative: the Commune of Grimaud.

The mooring areas that were previously allocated to you will remain so for boats that comply with the specifications of the farm-out contract in order to preserve the mission of Port Grimaud: to have a boat in front of your house. 

Regarding the price of contracts, « if the current rate respects the legal clauses of the terms of contract, the amount paid by users should not be changed ». The city hall website also states that from January 1, 2022, « the users will pay the part related to the use of the port to the port manager and the part related to the co-ownership of Port Grimaud directly to the managing association (in theory less the management costs of the port which will no longer be his responsibility, except for the common parts) ».

The amount voted by the mayor’s office is 20 euros/m2 of mooring or on average between 900 and 1800 euros per year.

If these changes are not warmly welcomed by everyone in Port Grimaud and still require some modifications, discussions will be held between the former concession holders and the Grimaud City Council so that co-owners can sign their new farm-out contracts as smoothly as possible.

Exceptional villas in Port Grimaud

The real estate market in Port Grimaud is very dynamic and offers many advantages.

Indeed, you can benefit from exceptional living and holiday conditions thanks to a judicious balance found between the security of the place and the pleasure of enjoying a preserved nature, a privileged location and breathtaking surrounding places.

But owning a villa in Port Grimaud is also a very good real estate investment because you can, if you wish, rent your property more than half of the year.

In this article, we would like to present to you 3 exceptional villas in Port Grimaud.

Villa on the beach

Villa by the sea side

This adorable Balandrine will seduce you instinctively with its 14-metre mooring and its windows on two sides. Its price is in line with the market, for a villa on the outskirts of the centre, just a short hop from the beach. A peaceful haven of 60 m2 for sale at 699,999 €.

The entrance opens onto a sunny terrace, framed by lush vegetation. You access it through a lovely gate.

It has two floors, with the bedrooms on the first floor, opening onto a terrace on the canal side with a breathtaking view of the boats.

An imposing mooring, therefore, with parking space reserved for residents, more details here: Balandrine near the beach.

A fully renovated villa in Port Grimaud

Cassine villa in Port Grimaud

This fully renovated villa, Cassine type with a refreshing Provencal style, is established on 2 levels.

It consists of an impressive living room with a fitted kitchen on the ground floor. One of the 2 bedrooms on the first floor opens onto a spacious terrace, with a view of the canals, and each has a shower room.

You will appreciate the floor heating, which can be programmed remotely, and the latest air conditioning. Add to all this a west-facing loggia, a 14-metre mooring, a terrace with garden and a numbered car park.

This exceptional property is priced at €1,299,000, for more information click here: Extended and renovated house.

New: Double house with 2 moorings

Double house with 2 moorings Port Grimaud

For those who need to have two moorings available, whether for entertaining or for personal use, this renovated villa has more than one advantage.

Spacious as well as well thought out, it consists of a fisherman’s house and a Balandrine style house, which are joined on the ground floor.

A large canal-side terrace garden, with a covered area, offers an exceptional view of the canals. Its sunset orientation promises extraordinary moments. Everything has been designed so that both parts have a maximum of quality interior fittings, particularly comfortable, with a living room-fireplace for one and a panoramic balcony for the other.

This neo-Provençal style property, comprising 6 bedrooms, is presented at a price of 3,045,000 € : Renovated double house, large terrace.

If you are interested in any of these properties and would like to visit them (virtually or in-person), please do not hesitate to contact our agency, Boutemy Immobilier on 04 94 56 56 58.

A selection of flats for sale in Port Grimaud

In a previous article, we presented an evolution of the real estate market in Port Grimaud in 2020, characterized, among other things, by rising prices for flats.

The most plausible explanations for this are: 

– the need for nature among city dwellers and the prospect of being able to retire to a home in the countryside or by the sea in the event of a crisis

– the perception that real estate is more than ever a safe haven

We would therefore like to present a few properties for sale at the agency.

Affordable luxury from €230,000 [sole agent] 

Flat with a mezzanine and loggia

This is the price of a superb 40 m2 flat, with loggia and mezzanine, which has a small bedroom and a garage.

Located on the top floor of a building on the outskirts of Port Grimaud Sud, its privileged location places it in the shopping area of the lakeside town. A soft Provencal style dominated its renovation, from which all the amenities benefit.

You will enjoy the canals to the full, with morning sunshine streaming in from the balcony-loggia.

Charm is superimposed on functionality for this flat. More info here: Flat with mezzanine and loggia.

A 4 room flat with terraces and garage [sole agent]

apartment in Port Grimaud with 2 terraces
A double terrace to enjoy the summer heat

This property is the result of two flats that have been brought together.

This situation allows it to have a singularly convenient double terrace, to take full advantage of the sunny view overlooking the canals. The interior is very interesting, with its kitchen open to the dining room, a living room with direct access to the terrace, and two bedrooms (each with amenities and bathroom).

This flat with a garage, with particularly favourable potential, can be seen here: 4-room flat with double garage terrace.

A 2 room flat near the beach [sole agent]

1 bedroom flat near the beaches of Port Grimaud

It is completely renovated and is offered at 365,000 €, a price which can be explained by its privileged location and its air conditioning.

Its south-west facing balcony overlooks the canals, so you can take full advantage of this incomparable view during lunch.
Its 30m2 are particularly well distributed, between a bedroom with an open kitchen, and a shower room with toilet. A parking space is reserved for you in the residents’ car park.

This property will allow you to take advantage of the shuttle service to Saint-Tropez.

You can see more of this modern flat on the agency’s website: 2 rooms renovated, with panoramic view, near the beaches.

A flat with sea view [new].

View from the flat in Port Grimaud
View from the flat

This rare pearl is located at the entrance of the Port, which guarantees you an exceptional view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. You will discover it, just waiting to offer you all its comfort. Its 30m2 are advantageously composed of a living room with open kitchen, a shower room and separate toilet. A large balcony on the seaside will allow you to enjoy the passage of the boats while resting.

This exceptionally well-located property of 400,000€ is offered to you here: Renovated 2 room flat with sea view.

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information, our team will be happy to guide you towards what will best suit your budget and expectations.

Whether you are looking to lay down your hat or take advantage of a holiday opportunity, Port Grimaud is renowned for its privileged location. With its view on the Gulf and the proximity of Saint-Tropez, our village will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Houses for sale in Port Grimaud, properties that will increase in value

As everyone knows by now, Port Grimaud is the door to the open sea and, closer to home, to the majestic Baie de Saint-Tropez. It is a heavenly setting in which to put down your suitcases for the duration of a holiday or to work from home in times of health crisis.

We will present you some houses for sale at the agency. Follow the guide!

Houses with large moorings for your boat 

Before describing some of the properties for sale, you should know that each house in Port Grimaud has its own mooring. This is one of the great advantages that makes them so famous because you only have to leave your house to get into your boat.

The surrounding sites are each more interesting than the last and, despite the pandemic that has hit us, are open to discovery and walks. Add to this an idyllic setting, and you have the perfect formula for investing wisely.

House with 14-metre mooring

Villa with air conditioning on Port Grimaud canals

This is a completely renovated property, an atypical fisherman’s house, on the outskirts of the centre of Port-Grimaud. The area is very peaceful and you will be able to enjoy the sunshine as soon as the sun rises. You can take your breakfast on the terrace at the entrance, in a green setting. On another terrace with garden furniture, the only view you will have is of the canals, from dawn to dusk. You will have 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on 90 m2 for 1,420,000 €.

For more information click here: Renovated house with 14m mooring in Port Grimaud.

House with 10-metre mooring

Typical house of Port Grimaud

We propose you a charming Hunière in a highly valued private area of Port Grimaud. Facing South-West, it is located near the centre, with a breathtaking view of the canals and the Ile Verte. Built on two levels, the first-floor bedroom has access to a balcony on the canal side. The second room is on the street side and has a bathroom and a toilet with a window. A private parking space nearby, a mooring of 10m x 4.20m on the front, enough to delight many.

This property is listed at 798,000 €. For more information click here: House with mooring, facing the south-west.

House with 11.5-metre mooring

House in Port Grimaud South with a garden

Facing south, this large house benefits from sunshine that lasts all day. Located in a residential area close to Place François Spoerry, the entrance is from a patio where you can park your car. A spacious living room, with kitchen, shower room and toilet for your guests, opens onto a loggia and its pleasant garden. A comfortable house with 2 bedrooms on the first floor and a master suite, with amenities (toilet and shower room), and a large terrace on the riverside. In short, a very comfortable villa where to spend pleasant holidays.

We offer this house to you at 1,190,000 €For more info click here: Large south-facing house with mooring.

The real estate market in Port Grimaud has hardly been affected by the health crisis

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the real estate market continues to grow, despite some complications in the organisation of our agency’s work. Its impact was felt above all in the proposed visits, which had to switch to virtual mode. Our clients adapted easily, especially as we respected the health protocol. It was all a question of adjustment, which they were sensitive to.

Every cloud has a silver lining, and the requests increased, like a boomerang effect to these restrictions. As a result, there were no significant changes in the market. Many buyers opted for real estate investment during the first lockdown, preferring to invest rather than let their money sit in the bank. A surprise that puts them in a more interesting dynamic, especially as the current trend indicates a rebound in resale prices.

What is the price of real estate in Port Grimaud?

With the covid-19 crisis, many experts expected a collapse in property prices.

However, while the volume of transactions certainly decreased in 2020, prices have maintained, or even continued their progression above 12,000€ / m2 on average in Port Grimaud.

Price of real estate in Port Grimaud
 Source: Les Clés du Midi

A slightly lower volume of transactions in 2020

2020 was marked by 2 major events: a sharp decrease in economic activity in France linked to the 2 lockdowns and the imminent entry into force of Brexit.

While a few people chose to leave the Paris region to spend confinement in more pleasant conditions in the South of France, we mostly noticed a certain wait-and-see attitude on the part of potential buyers who preferred to have more visibility before investing in a villa in Port Grimaud.

Between sometimes forbidden travel, sometimes limited travel to a perimeter of 100 kilometres, and the impossibility of showing properties for sale during the strictest period of confinement, the conditions were not met to sell serenely. Some owners who were still living in their homes also preferred not to be visited during the lockdown.

We, therefore, organised ourselves according to the regulatory constraints of the moment and the preferences of the owners and proposed video tours to those who wished to do so.

However, we note a stirring at the beginning of 2021. The prospect of owning a place to relax in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, far from the hustle and bustle of the big metropolises seems to be attracting more and more people.

Historically, the British constitute a significant part of our foreign clientele. We are waiting to see if Brexit will affect their willingness to invest in the area.

Prices of houses and flats in Port Grimaud

As you can see from the graph below, the average price of an apartment is 10,446€/m2 in Port Grimaud and 14,498€ for a house.

Source: les Clés du Midi

 The average price is a figure to be considered with caution because many factors determine the price of a property, which can vary greatly depending on:

– the presence or absence and the size of a mooring. As a general rule, all our houses for sale have their own mooring whereas the majority of apartments do not.

– the presence of a garden

– the orientation of the property.

On the other hand, the choice of neighbourhood in Port Grimaud does not have a clear impact on the price of the property as each of them has its own advantages.

Price per square metre of houses in Port Grimaud

 

Price of villas and houses in Port Grimaud
Source: Les Clés du Midi

As you can see from this graph, the average price of houses in Port Grimaud has fallen by around €1,500 per m2 over the past year.

In general, to acquire a property of €1 million in the region requires at least one visit and we have often been unable to arrange these due to travel restrictions and confinements in our European neighbours.

We, therefore, believe that this drop is only temporary and that house prices will rise slightly from 2021. So this year is a good time to invest.

We currently have for sale a superb balandrine at 11,538€ / m2 near the centre of Port Grimaud 1. This is a very nice product that deserves a visit.

Villa with 2 outdoor patios

Price per square metre of flats in Port Grimaud

Although the average price of houses is falling, the price of apartments continues to rise, reaching almost €10,000 per square metre, the highest price ever achieved in the lakeside city.

Price of flats in Port Grimaud

 Source: les Clés du Midi

Prices start at 230,000€ and they present a very good return on investment as we can rent them out for you during a good part of the year. We have a high demand from the Easter holidays until the end of October.

You can then simply book the weekends and holidays at your convenience and rent it out the rest of the time.

flat with air conditioning in Port Grimaud
3 room flat with large balcony and view of the canal

The investment is all the more profitable as one week’s rent collected in high season is often enough to cover a monthly payment on the loan taken out to acquire the apartment.

Escape to Port Grimaud this summer

The government is considering the possibility of a « return to a more normal life » from the end of Spring. That is our dearest wish: to be able to go out again, to tour the galleries of Grimaud, to take part in the cultural and sporting events that usually brighten up the beautiful season in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Beaches of Port Grimaud
Copyright Grimaud Tourisme

Many of us are looking forward to the summer holidays with the prospect that a good part of the population will be vaccinated. Thus, after more than 15 months of a health crisis, we will be ready to enjoy festive holidays in the sun!

We have just opened the 2021 booking schedule. Some properties are already online and this list will be expanded in the coming weeks by Mathilde.

Book your rental house or apartment for the summer of 2021

You can already check out the properties available for rent here.

We have about forty of them, whose location is immediately visible on our map of Port Grimaud.

Map-holiday-rentals-Port Grimaud
Source: boutemy.net

If this summer is your first visit to Port Grimaud, you should base your search on the number of people you will be accommodating and the size of the mooring you will need for your boat if you have one.

house-for-rent-port-grimaud
House for rent in Port Grimaud with 16-metre mooring

If you have already been here several times, you may have a preference between the neighborhoods of Port Grimaud I, Port Grimaud II (also called Port Grimaud Sud) and Port Grimaud III. In this case, you can directly launch a geolocalized search.

Already 40 properties for rent

We already have 40 properties available for rent on the site. 

  • Do you have a small budget? Choose a 2-room apartment from 500 euros per week.
  • Do you have a large family? A big boat? In this case, the size of the mooring will be a determining factor in your selection. 

As soon as you find the property of your dreams, contact us to reserve it.

COVID-19 related measures

In strict compliance with health regulations, all our rental properties are cleaned and disinfected to the highest standards.

Booking conditions

They remain the same as in previous years:

  • We validate your reservation on receipt of a deposit of 25% of the total amount.
  • The remaining 75% must be paid 1 month before your arrival in the accommodation.
  • In high season, the minimum stay is one week.
  • Rentals take place from Saturday at 5 pm to the following Saturday at 10 am.
  • Cleaning takes place between 10 am and 5pm on Saturdays.

Cancellation conditions

In case of traffic restrictions due to:

  • Strict confinement
  • Limited mileage around your place of residence
  • A border closure
  • An administrative ban,

You can benefit from a credit note valid for 18 months.

For any other question, please contact us at 00 334 94 56 56 58 or by email at agence@boutemy.net.

We regularly publish new articles on this blog, so come back and read us as we will be reporting on the events and news of Grimaud and Port Grimaud. This will give you some inspiration for your next holiday.

Talk to you soon,

Mathilde and Marion

Your summer holidays in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Hello everyone,

It is with great joy that we reopened the agency on May 18th and that we now welcome you again from Monday to Friday from 9am to 12:30pm and from 3pm to 6:30pm.
The agency will be open to the public again on Saturdays as well from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

Our agency located at 32 place des Artisans in Port Grimaud


Of course, we have put security measures in place to protect us all:

  • we wear masks and ask you to do the same
  • please do not shake hands (but even behind your mask, your most beautiful smile will delight us )
  • Only 1 person inside at a time
  • no carpooling

Welcome Mathilde, our newest collaborator

To book your holiday rental, you can contact Marion Boutemy, the agency director, as well as Mathilde, a sparkling and smiling young woman who joined the team in the spring.
Mathilde fell in love with our beautiful region a few years ago and is eager to share its wonders and good places with our clients. She is also fluent in English and Italian.

Can I book in Port Grimaud for the summer holidays?

We have excellent news: the Var prefecture decided, by prefectoral decree of May 15, 2020, to reopen the following beaches in Grimaud between 8am and 6pm:
– Port Grimaud North beach
– Gros Pin Beach
– Guerrevieille beach
– beach of Saint-Pons les Mûres.

Saint-Tropez and Pampelonne beaches, which are among your favorites, are also open.
You don’t have to be on the move; you can lie on the sand, swim and also sail. However, you still have to observe the rules of social distancing and prohibition to gather more than 10 people, which are posted at the entrance of the beaches.

We are also waiting for more information on June 2nd about a possible reopening of the restaurants. However, you should know that although they cannot receive customers on site, many of them have started to offer takeaway service.
Among these restaurants we can mention the Rialto, Don Peppe, Curry Box, Les pieds dans l’eau, Pizza Italia, La Marée, Pasta E Via, Le Relais des Coches, La table du Mareyeur and Lily’s.
We’d also like to add that the Amorino ice cream parlour has been successfully renovated. Lastly, we want to thank Charly, the organic baker of Port Grimaud who stayed open to the public during all the quarantine period.

Will I be able to cancel my reservation?

Port Grimaud, lakeside city

For the past couple of weeks, many of you have been calling us to book a house or apartment for the summer holidays but are concerned about whether you will be able to cancel your booking in the event of a new coronavirus spike or depending on government decisions.

If a new quarantine is decided or if you live more than 100 kilometres from Port Grimaud and are not allowed to travel beyond a radius of 100 kilometres, you will receive a credit note valid for 18 months from the date of cancellation.

We follow the government recommendations and know that this flexibility is very reassuring for many of you.

Reinforced hygiene measures between 2 rentals

port-grimaud

To ensure the handing over of the keys or the cleaning services between each rental, we have set up new and very strict hygiene procedures. We will be happy to give you details of these procedures when you make your reservation request at the agency, by email at agence@boutemy.net or by calling 0033 (0)4 94 56 56 58.

See you soon,

Marion and Mathilde

Have a great autumn in Grimaud

Discovering Grimaud and its surroundings in autumn means opting for new experiences that will delight young and old alike, even if swimming is no longer on the menu. Most of the summer visitors have left, so only the locals and enthusiasts of our charming little medieval village remain.

The Sea has its village

Port Grimaud, lakeside city

Grimaud cannot be dissociated from its charming lakeside city, they go hand in hand and complement each other at the same time. One allows long walks through the countryside, the other makes us travel along the sea. The Venice of Provence always has something unconventional to offer us, whether in terms of culture or outings.

Take the opportunity to enjoy yourself in its open air market. Local and seafood products are on offer, every Thursday and Sunday mornings to taste the delicious products of Provence.

The Musical Evenings / Les Soirées Musicales

They take place each month all year round and feature great classical music artists. This autumn the orchestral ensemble « Les Ambassadeurs » will carry the voice of a baroque Italy where singing, flutes and violins reign side by side. Depth and virtuosity punctuate this orchestral ensemble of Concerti inspired by Sammartini, Vivaldi and Tartini.

The « Soave and Virtuoso » Musical Evening on Sunday November 17, 2019 is presented at 6:00 pm in the Saint-Michel church. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear some of the greatest transalpine masters the world has ever seen.

Discover Grimaud

The Pont des Fées, copyright Grimaud Tourisme

The Tourism Office offers you free guided tours. The purpose is to immerse yourself in anecdotes, each one more delicious than the next, in the form of stories telling the story of the village.

For visits accompanied by a tour guide, please contact the Tourism Office directly as they are less frequent in autumn and winter. However, there are other options available to you:

– follow the paper plan that will be given to you at the Tourism Office 
– or equipped with your smartphone in geolocalised mode, let yourself be guided through the alleys to the most emblematic monuments in our history.

The main walks will lead you:

  • to the ruins of the castle overlooking the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
  • at the Saint-Rock mill
  • at the Notre Dame de la Queste chapel, a high place of pilgrimage famous for its blessing of horses.

You can also find many excursions on the Cirkwi.com website.

Le Pont des Fées, video directed by Grimaud Tourisme

All around the table

As the best moments always end with a good meal, Grimaud won’t be the one to deviate from tradition. Last year we promised you, as the choice proved to be so difficult, to come back in more detail on some restaurants. When it comes to good food, the season doesn’t matter, each of them is to be highlighted. Enjoy your meal!

  • Trattoria St Joseph : A Pizzeria that offers you, as it should, a typical Italian cuisine. Made with fresh seasonal produce, you’ll be warmly welcomed and the atmosphere is friendly. Reservation recommended.
  • Pizza Italia delivers the artisanal quality for its pizzas, with packaging and production methods adapted to the criteria of takeaway catering. Speed and convenience are the leitmotif of this establishment.
  • Le Monroe’s Pub : A brewery in pure Irish tradition, with restaurant, terrace and pool table. Seafood, fish and pizzas punctuate Friday and Saturday evenings, with concerts and sports broadcasts.
  • La Caravelle : A restaurant-bar-pizzeria offering traditional cuisine and homemade desserts, but also seafood lasagna and mussels of bouchot marinière in daily specials. Terrace overlooking the canal, closed on Sundays.
  • Pizzeria Don Peppe : This is the true Italy that you find on your plate. Dishes and pizzas whose transalpine flavour blends with the scents mixed with the sea spray of the lake city of Port Grimaud. Terrace at the water’s edge.
  • La Spaghetta is an Italian restaurant open to its customers all year round in Grimaud. In addition to its culinary specialities, the establishment offers a room that can accommodate 30 people, whether for a special or private event.
  • Apopino Restaurant : In a contemporary style, a friendly Franco-Italian restaurant with interesting textures. The chef offers well-crafted dishes: stuffed squid and Apopino ravioli. Regional cellar.
  • Marina Lounge : Bar & restaurant, with refined traditional cuisine and stylish décor, located at Camping Holiday Marina. Theme evenings and various activities are part of the party, closed from December 25 to March 16 in winter. 
  • La Tartane is one of the oldest places in Port-Grimaud, where dining in front of the sailboats is a privilege. The cuisine is simple, regional and traditional. Everything depends on the market, based on a variety of high-quality fresh products.
  • Le Mûrier is run by Maki and Bertrand Comelet, lovers of old houses with a stylish décor but without frills or glitter. Their cuisine is in the image of the place, wise but with good Provençal dishes on the menu.

Let’s not forget to mention the restaurants presented in more detail last year: Le Just’in café, les Santons, Pizza Léone, la Bastide Blanche, le Clem’s, l’Ecurie de la Marquise, le New Burg, le Jas des Roberts, la Table de Didier, la Table des Oliviers, le Terracota, le Thai Boat, la Maracana Churrascaria, le Café Telline and la Pizzeria Don Peppe.

We hope we didn’t forget any restaurant open during the off season. They all offer varied and inspired dishes to the delight of all. Whether they are located in the charming alleys of its medieval village, or by the harbour, choosing one will be your only worry.

Discover the peninsula of Saint-Tropez

The Saint-Tropez Peninsula is a projection of the Massif des Maures in the Mediterranean Sea, which extends from Port Grimaud to La Croix-Valmer. It is a key destination in the Var, a particularly popular oasis on the French Riviera. Every year it attracts thousands of tourists from France and overseas, both for its fabulous landscapes and picturesque villages.

Saint-Tropez and the sea 

Saint-Tropez

It is undoubtedly the most important city in the Gulf, highly prized for its atypical alleys and its popularity with the world’ s most prominent people. If it attracts especially in summer for its jet set and upscale side, it finds its full measure out of season. Then, we discover the charm of this small fishing village, where the famous market of the Place des Lices is held. But Saint-Tropez is also a host of cultural and sporting events, its artists inspired by the authentic charm of the Port, as well as its many beaches and coves.

Ramatuelle, the perched village

Ramatuelle scenic view

The village stands facing the beaches of Pampelonne, on which it offers a prestigious panorama and away from the seaside. This typically Provençal town is a delight for all those who come in search of festivities and activities. The clubs follow each other all along the coast where jet setters rush to immerse themselves in the mythical Tropezian dream. Cap Camarat adds touches of majestic colours, dominated by the white of its rocks, the green of its vegetation and the blue of the Mediterranean.

The village of Gassin

Gassin, copyright http://maisonduvillage.canalblog.com

Renowned as one of the most beautiful in France, the village of Gassin offers an exceptional view of the Var plain and the Mediterranean. Its position on the rocky promontory perches it at an altitude of 200 metres, from where it easily dominates the tortuous and flowery alleys of its village. Its location on the heights also offers an unparalleled view of wooded areas and a vineyard landscape, not to mention the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. The best thing to do is to take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy a « Côte de Provence » as an accompaniment to local cuisine.

La Croix Valmer

A dream destination for a family day, very quiet and discreet, it is at an altitude of 369 metres that the village is perched. Its beaches are remarkable, whether they are located in Sylvabelle or Gigaro, each one leads to a heavenly cove as a gift. Taking a landscaped trail overlooking splendid panoramas is well worth the required 45 minutes walk. The most adventurous can reach the splendid beach of La Briande. The trick is to take the opportunity to fill up with PDO-stamped olive oil!

If you are staying for a while in Port Grimaud, we advise you to discover our charming neighbouring villages. The fauna and flora are at their peak and some places are steeped in history that is pleasant to discover through their heritage. As for the singing southern accent, its crickets, its sun and its gastronomy, how can we resist them?

The wine estates of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

If Saint-Tropez gets its nobility titles from the stars and prominent people who stay in this atypical village for its enchanting landscapes and the extent of its beach in Pampelonne, its wine-growing estate has nothing to envy them, however. The whole world has its eyes fixed on the azure blue of the Mediterranean, but still doesn’t ignore all the features that make it famous. Its on-site estates are very numerous, so we’ll try to draw up a list that cannot be exhaustive.

Cap Saint-Pierre Estate

This wine estate is established in Gassin, Var. Located on 12.50 hectares in a seafront property, original and gourmet wines (red, white and rosé wines) suitable for all occasions are produced and harvested.

Among these you will discover, on plots flooded with light, different grape varieties invigorated by the Mediterranean: Mer-lot, Sémillon, Tibouren, Syrah and Rolle. As the wine is made in stainless steel vats, it is thanks to the latest technologies that some of the best classified growths mature. You can discover, among others, the Star vintage or the légende vintage.

Whether you are an oenologist, a wine merchant or a seller of local products, the wines are offered in bottles or even in boxes.
Site

Ferme des Lices 

This is a particular estate which, thanks to the tenacity and combined efforts of a handful of wine enthusiasts, has been spared from urbanization. Nature has won by offering the town of Saint-Tropez a tasty blend of traditional wines. It is on an area of 8 hectares that the vines flourish, in the plains of the Salins, as well as 3 hectares of olive groves. 

As the only private cellar in the commune, Ferme des Lices estate aims to the summits. By offering top-of-the-range wines, reserved primarily for renowned oenologists, it can be found on the list of upscale restaurants in the Gulf.

Every Thursday in July and August, Ferme des Lices organizes an after beach.
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Bertaud Belieu Estate

This 65 hectare estate is established in the heart of the Saint-Tropez peninsula, and more precisely in Gassin. It is renowned for the exceptional quality of its red and white wines, but also for its production of Côtes de Provence PDO rosé wines. This Protected Designation of Origin gives it an 80% presence on the local market.

Its sandy-limestone condition is due to its position between the Massif des Maures and the Raphael coast for its sandy-clay soil. From this exceptional luminous and clayey situation were born a dozen grape varieties, the most famous of which are Cinsaults, Grenaches, Mourvèdres, Tibourens and Grenaches. The red wines are thus reserved for the parcels exposed to full sunlight, while the white wines are reserved for those with omnipresent limestone.
Site

The following vineyards will please excuse us for simply listing them in alphabetical order:

Château Barbeyrolles offers a wine with the scents of Provence, a delicate rosé known as Pétale de Rose.

Château des Garcinières offers a variety of Côtes de Provence and PDO wines (red, white and rosé) in Cogolin.

Château des Marres on Ramatuelle offers Côtes de Provence, made from its 27 hectares of vines planted at the estate.

Chevalier Torpez is an association of St-Tropez vineyards that cultivates Côtes de Provence for the whole of the coast of Saint-Tropez.

Domaine du Bourrian produces its wines, mainly whites and rosés, under the label Organic Agriculture on Gassin.

Domaine de La Croix, classified growths covering 100 hectares of vineyards in La Croix Valmer that flourish by the sea.

Domaine Sainte Marie offers a short direct sales channel from the winegrower to the producer in Bornes-les-Mimosas

Domaine des Tournels cultivates the vine on Ramatuelle, a completely trellised site overlooking Pampelonne bay.

Domaine La Tourraque invites you to discover, in the form of wine tourism, their organic vineyards located in Ramatuelle.

Domaine Val d’Astier is managed by Artisans Vignerons, who offer tasting and sale at the estate in Cogolin.

The Maîtres Vignerons offer their 400 m² shop in Gassin, to present wines and local products for sale. A contemporary stylish and tasteful décor, to immerse yourself in the iodine flavours of the Gulf.

But we couldn’t close this chapter without telling you about the Saint-Tropez Wine Tour, which offers you a day of discovery in three of the peninsula’s prestigious vineyards. A guided tour wisely combining cellars and vineyards, a protected natural site and a unique lunch under the pines… which obviously cannot go by without taking a dip in the ocean.

Daily price fixed at €110, for a duration of 8 hours. Departure and return to Saint-Tropez and Sainte-Maxime from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

The festivities in Grimaud this summer 2019

The village of Grimaud is a wonderful scenery for cultural and musical events organized throughout the year by the municipality. The ruins of the castle as well as the cobbled streets sublimate the masterpieces offered to the public’s curiosity. We invite you to enjoy the events planned to brighten up your summer evenings.
Follow the guide!

Popular traditions

Proud of its Provençal culture, the village likes to introduce its holidaymakers to century-old traditions that are still passionately perpetuated by its inhabitants.

The Mill and Small Country Heritage Festival in Grimaud

On June 16th, let’s meet from 10am to 1pm at the Moulin Saint-Roch for a friendly country celebration. A guide will introduce you to the operation of water and windmills, the water supply of our perched village having presented significant challenges over the past centuries. Come with your family to enjoy folk dances, a mini-farm, horse-drawn carriages and pony rides and the traditional apéritif offered by Grimaud-Animations.

St. John’s Day Fires

Celebrated on June 23rd, St. John’s Day procession will leave the square in front of the town hall at 6:00 pm to reach the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Queste. It will stop in front of each fountain in the village for a serenade.

Visitors will be able to join the procession throughout the journey. A mass will be celebrated in the chapel to bless the bundles and to set the fire of St. John’s Day.

Grimaud celebrates the Revolution

The Gulf of Saint-Tropez Theatre School, the CRET will organize on July 14th historical reconstructions of scenes of the Revolution in the village’s alleys. Let yourself be carried away by their communicative energy and embark on a journey through time. And if you feel like it, put on cockades and phrygian hats. This exceptional day will be closed by the traditional ball on July 14th.

The village festival

For 3 days, on August 14th, 15th and 16th, there will be festivities in Grimaud. The villagers have always celebrated the Assumption in Grimaud, but this festival also has its roots in the Middle Ages, from which a large agricultural fair was organised in the park of the Notre-Dame de la Queste chapel.

This event now brings together religious traditions (mass and procession on August 15th) and festivities (shows, fireworks on the beach of Port Grimaud and the great aïoli of La Queste).

The Grimaldines


Every Tuesday from July 16th to August 06th, free concerts and shows will follow one another after sunset. The lakeside city and its medieval village will be hosts to artists from everywhere.

The Grimaldines will be marked by 4 exceptional concerts in the medieval castle of Grimaud:

  • Kimberose on July 16th
  • Alain Chamfort on July 23rd
  • Toure Kunda on July 30th
  • Noa on August 06th

Grimaud’s musical evenings

Juan Carmona


The musical evenings of Grimaud are a classical music festival taking place in magical places of the Grimaudois heritage: the Saint-Michel church, the Notre-Dame de la Queste chapel or the Pénitents chapel are all exceptional places to sublimate the performances of the invited artists.

This summer, Grimaud will have the privilege of welcoming:

  • Juan Carmona and his quartet on July 19th on « the land of flamenco »
  • Erik Berchot at the piano on August 09th to perform pieces « from Chopin to Aznavour »
  • The Modigliani Quartet (violin, viola and cello) on September 19th

These 3 concerts will be performed in the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Queste.

Your summer in Grimaud may be relaxing, sporty or cultural, but we’re sure it will be festive. We hope you’ll enjoy all these activities. For more information, you can visit our blog or the site grimaud-provence.com.

Lovely getaways in the heart of the Var countryside

Whether you decide to go for family walks or sports hikes in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, spring is the perfect time to embark on an adventure. The fauna and flora are awakening and the good weather is on board so it’s one of the best time of the year to enjoy the Var countryside.

Discover the Cistus

Copyright Domaine du Rayol

Domaine du Rayol offers an emblematic stroll that will take you straight to the encounter of Mediterranean plants. Accompanied by a botanist gardener from the Domaine, you will discover everything about the Cistus, these plants with delicately crumpled flowers. All their secrets will be revealed to you, an introduction to local botany that everyone will remember. This discovery walk is accessible to everyone, whatever your age and ambitions.

Departures on April 21st and 28th, with extensions on May 05th and 10th. The entrance to the garden + the nature walk are at the rate of €14 for adults and €8 for 6-17 year olds. It’s free for children under 6 years old accompanied by an adult.
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The maquis of Rayol

Copyright Domaine du Rayol

It is out of the usual trails that the Domaine offers you an excursion into its wild and totally natural part. The old customs trail will lead you to a magnificent panoramic view of the coast if you take it. Cross by the maquis to discover the cistus hill, for the moment in full bloom. A fun way to get to know the plants of the region and learn about their uses.

Access to the garden and nature walk from Domaine Rayol at 2:00pm, from Friday March 28th to Friday October 27th. Duration 2.5 hours including a 1.5 hour walk. The rate is age-dependent and free for children under 6 years of age accompanied by an adult.
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Full moon in Camarat

A forest path that leads to the seaside, nothing more exciting when it’s the moon that shows you the way. Your senses are awakened by the smell of aromatic plants against a backdrop of dark shrubby silhouettes. With the murmur of the wind in the foliage and the melody of the birds, it is the least of your perceptions that is stimulated. Add the sound of the surf crashing on the granite rocks and you have reached the pinnacle.

2.5 hour tour scheduled for May 11th, 2019 at 8:30 pm, for 1.5 hour of itinerary over 3.2 kilometers, with a difference in altitude of 110 meters. Rates are based on the age and condition of the participants. Stroll supervised by a naturalist guide.

Night for a walk

Copyright Domaine du Rayol

In the mildest hours, in this sometimes scorching season, enjoy a hike as soon as summer arrives. Domaine du Rayol is even more fascinating on full moon nights! The music of the wind and the aromas exhaling from the day will pick you up with full force. As plants also live at night, you will enjoy the scents of the shade, but also the pollination of their flowering. A 2.5hour walk that you will never forget.

Excursions on June 26th, July 21st, August 18th and September 22nd, for a nature tour at Le Rayol. Meeting at the entrance of the garden at 8:30 pm. The walking time is 1 hour and 20 minutes but it takes 2.5 hours on site with the visit of the Domaine. Rates according to age.
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The Mills of Paillas

Copyright https://ramatuelle.fr

Overlooking the village of Ramatuelle, the hill of Castellas offers a paradisiacal view of the Gulf and the ocean. At your feet are the perched village of Gassin, the peninsula of Saint-Tropez, the castle of Grimaud and its ruins, as well as the vineyards of Croix Valmer. Of the 5 mills that were built on it, only one has been completely rebuilt. It’s the one that you’ll have you the opportunity to contemplate, during a 2.5 hour walk supervised by a naturalist guide.

Trips on July 27th at 5pm and September 21st at 2:30pm… for a 1.5 hour itinerary established over 1 kilometer, with a difference in altitude of 50 metres. Rates are based on age and number of participants. Book well in advance as tickets sell out quickly!
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Horseback rides

For horseback riding enthusiasts and its benefits, the Stables de l’Eau Blanche offer you a ride on Cavalaire. The club’s immense wooded estate is available all year round, as well as its qualified instructors. If you wish to improve and progress according to the rules of the art, it is with the greatest pleasure that the team will welcome you.
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Grimaud invites you to discover the Massif des Maures. Le Relais de la Mène will allow you to combine discovery, pleasure and love of horses, with the assault of the traverse paths. Beginners are welcome, all rides are accompanied by an equestrian guide.
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Photo credit Ranch de la Mène

This year, night rides are on the agenda to make you discover sensations that only night can provide.

Note: this article was first published in French on the blog on May 3rd, 2019. We apologize if some of the events already occurred. 

The best day trips from Port Grimaud

Port Grimaud and its surroundings have a wide range of activities and day trips for young and old to enjoy your holiday as you please, while respecting everyone’s wishes and preferences.
You’ve had an insight through our articles published on this blog, into the many activities offered by the cultural, musical and sports associations of Port Grimaud and Saint-Tropez. Now discover some ideas for activities to be carried out and places to discover over the course of a day starting from Port Grimaud.

Initiatory visit of Port Grimaud

Copyright http://www.hpco.fr/

Rent an electric boat without a license to discover the « Venice of Provence » starting from its almost 7 kilometres of canals. To navigate conveniently, a route plan is provided when boarding. From the church, you will cross the first bridge, to go to various strategic points.

A highly ecological way to follow the Oriental and Northern Canal, to get to know the rue de l’Octogone and the rue de la Tour. You will have a view of the Place des Canons, where your adventure will take you to the Place du Marché and the Place des Artisans (hello, the agency is located at 32 Place des Artisans)… and you will end up, skimming the rue des deux Ports and the rue de l’île longue, at the entrance to Lake Intérieur. So from canals to bridge crossings, you will return to your starting point.

The rental is for 5 people, with rescue equipment and all the necessary equipment for a safe crossing. Its price is €30, for a limited time of 30 minutes, but you can certainly extend it. 
Click here for more information.

Discovery Tours 

To travel from Port Grimaud to Sainte-Maxime and to Saint-Tropez, the Bateaux Verts, a maritime shuttle service can be used. In just 30 minutes you can reach these strategic points of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, to experience their unique atmosphere or visit their surroundings. There are many possibilities for tours: whether you want to follow the Sails of Saint-Tropez regattas, stroll through its sidewalk sale or enjoy its nightlife, everything is possible.

In Sainte-Maxime, you will enjoy the old lively city and as well as its breathtaking views. Don’t forget to visit the Trois Caps Sauvages, the Baie des Canoubiers, and les Calanques de l’Esterel.

Sainte-Maxime
Sainte-Maxime

Some ideas to discover the Gulf of Saint-Tropez by sea… or by air

  • Boat rentals: With or without a license, managed by a skipper or not, come and discover Europboat Grimaud. In their offices, you can choose between several models… and as enthusiasts of sailing, they will help you choose, according to your needs and comfort.
  • Tivicat offers you the possibility to rent a catamaran  for a day. At a rate of €2.200 for 9 hours, you can take up to 18 people on board and can even book directly online. An absolutely magical experience!
  • Experience sailing on the luxury Wajer boats for a day or a personalized excursion in the Mediterranean. Their greatest attraction? A day accompanied by an experienced captain to discover the sites from Saint-Tropez to Nice.
  • The Taxi Boat  will take you from Saint-Tropez to any anchorage or mooring port you want. A VIP service is provided, wherever there is an event such as the Festival de la Plaisance, the Cannes Film Festival, etc.
  • The Flying Sailor offers a voyage of discovery throughout the Gulf of Saint-Tropez by parasailing. A diverse landscape, which you will enjoy observing from above.
Parasailing with the Flying Sailor

Enjoy your stay! The only inconvenience you might have is deciding between all these options….

Port Grimaud, the paradise for sailing lovers

If Port Grimaud is in the best position in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from a navigation point of view, it is mainly due to its setting. For sailing lovers, it is a real paradise, which its founder has made sure that it is within everyone’s reach. Thus, unlike most conventional marinas, each housing or nearly all of them has a private mooring at its doorstep.

Port Grimaud

The concept of the Port 

In response to a daunting challenge he had sworn to resolve, an architect from Mulhouse (North East of France) named François Spoerry made it a reality. In 1962 he bought swampy lands that no one was interested in acquiring, to create a purely genius idea: to make sure that each house has a mooring ring! A project that guided the lakeside city to a successful completion, from the start of the works in 1967, to the beginning of the 21st century.

Focus on the offshore

For the record, Port Grimaud is located in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. A strategic place like nowhere else, to explore all that its surroundings have to offer in terms of entertainment. A short distance from Port Grimaud, you can discover Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime, Ramatuelle or Cavalaire-sur-Mer, which are popular destinations on the Côte d’Azur.

Aerial view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Participate in the regattas

There are numerous of such events in the Gulf throughout the year. They attract a wide range of audiences and its participants sometimes come from far away. One of the most famous is called the Voiles de Saint-Tropez where old rigging and modern sailing boats from all over the world converge. It will take place in early fall (September 28 to October 6, 2019 this year).

There are numerous of such events in the Gulf throughout the year. They attract a wide range of audiences and its participants sometimes come from far away. One of the most famous is called the Voiles de Saint-Tropez where old rigging and modern sailing boats from all over the world converge. It will take place in early fall (September 28 to October 6, 2019 this year).

If you want to watch the regattas, all you have to do is to be on board a ship such as Les Vedettes Îles d’Or & Le Corsaire. Entertainment and unforgettable memories are guaranteed!

A unique moment: You will stay on the boat for the duration of the regattas, which corresponds to 4 hours of competition in the bay. The icing on the cake is that afterwards you can enjoy a stopover to explore the port of Saint-Tropez and discover its famous village. Two hours should be enough to give you a taste of the special atmosphere which is very much appreciated by the stars and celebrities of this world. The gendarmerie acting as a museum, you are welcome to follow in the footsteps of the De Funes team.

Discovery Outings

Just a visit to Le Lavandou will suffice to enjoy an underwater observation of the Mediterranean fauna and flora. A trimaran called Le Seascope® has a transparent central hull, which immerses you right into the depths of the sea. To have a good view, inquire about the clarity of the water beforehand. If the weather is bad, enjoy a walk around the islands of Port-Cros and Le Levant. This trip is made on a shuttle bus for a duration of just over an hour and a half without a stopover.

The Seascope and its transparent hull. Copyright http://www.vedettesilesdor.fr/excursions/seascope/

Other articles you may find interesting:
The regattas in Port Grimaud
Throwback to the 20th edition of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez (in French)

Testimonies from happy homeowners – They bought an apartment in Port Grimaud

Our quarterly magazine is now available for free distribution in the streets of Port Grimaud! You will find a wide range of properties available for sale as well as testimonials from buyers of an apartment in Port Grimaud.

real estate magazine in Port Grimaud

Click the image to access the online magazine.

In our Spring edition, we interviewed 3 recent apartment owners but due to publication constraints we were unable to publish all the questions we asked them. We therefore encourage you to read their full answers concerning their buying experience as well as their favorite addresses in Port Grimaud.

In which neighborhood do you live?

Viviane and José: We have acquired our accommodation in Grimaldines 1 in Port Grimaud 3. Its location which is close to the village center and the large beach as well as the property itself captivated us from the very first visit with Marion. After a brief conversation, we decided to buy this property.

Julien: Our apartment is located in the heart of Port Grimaud 1. We love this district which is the first one you see when you reach Port Grimaud by sea. We appreciate the liveliness of the Place des Artisans on market days as much as the absolute calm that reigns on our private terrace.

Do you spend a lot of time in your new place?

Viviane and José: We have been the owners of our apartment since last September and plan to stay there as often as possible depending on our schedule, at any time of the year.

Julien: We spend almost every holiday from April to October here, on long weekends and in August.

What are your favorite spots and activities in Port Grimaud?

Viviane and José: The main advantage of Port Grimaud is that we don’t need to use a car so we like to visit places like Saint-Tropez and Sainte-Maxime but most of the time we prefer the tranquility of Port Grimaud where we also enjoy parasailing activities, beach deck chairs and a little morning jog when the village is still dormant and the beach is deserted. Our holidays in Port Grimaud are really a refreshing holiday.

We love Antinéa beach, where we spend a lot of time relaxing, taking long walks and savoring Manu’s delicious dishes. We enjoy the market cuisine, the Tartane and Cathy’s ever welcoming smile, as well as the Telline for its cuisine and its ever pleasant welcome. We recommend the Licorne for its more family-friendly cuisine and especially for the hospitality of the entire David and Fabienne team; it is always a pleasure to spend some time at their restaurant. And also the Marée where Christian and Valérie prepare delicious fish dishes for the guests.In fact, our favorite places in Port Grimaud are mostly related to very good human experiences we’ve had and are places where we feel at home.

Julien: We like to spend time on the beach and take the boat to swim in front of the « madrague » (famous property acquired by Brigitte Bardot in 1958) in Saint-Tropez. We like to walk around, shop but more than anything else, visit the canals. When friends come to visit us, we always show them around Port Grimaud through the water.
Our favorite restaurant is the Tartane.