The Annonciade Museum (« le Musée de l’Annonciade »), renowned as one of the most charming in France, is a constant reminder of the renewed history of Saint-Tropez from the beginning of the 20th century. It is Paul Signac who, discovering this small fishing port of his yacht the Olympia in the year 1892, established its prominence. Even though he had purchased a house in the village, which he will later make his workshop, this one will become one of the most active leading-edge centers of the pictorial creation. This house, La Hune, from that time received many of its illustrious painters, among them Marquet, Matisse, Cross, and many others.

The collections which succeeded until 1950 are splendid. The work of all the artists who exhibited have shown consistency when you study them. It is therefore through color that they are distinguished, while remaining faithful to figuration and cubism. It is a coherence of painters of the highest quality who make up this group, drawn from the pointillist movements, nabis and fauve. More than twenty paintings are exhibited, all of international standing.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 6pm.

The Butterfly House (« la Maison des Papillons »): It is an impressive collection, with 20,000 world species displayed in a true Tropezian style house. In 2015, Dany Lartigue renovated it in a very original fashion. The museum’s home-shop area was then furnished and a workshop was then open to the public. It offers a layout worthy of this extraordinary collection of butterflies from all walks of life detected by the entomologist.

A multi-faceted artist, we often meet Dany Lartigue on the edge of the old port alley, with a net in his hand. 

The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 5pm.
Entrance fee: €2 only for adults, free for children under 12

The Museum of the Gendarmerie and Cinema (« Le Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma »): No one can ignore the fact that between Saint-Tropez and the Cinema it has been very beautiful love story that has grown, especially when they were associated with the Gendarmerie for the famous saga of the Gendarmes.
The museum is located near the splendid Hôtel de Paris, which was completely renovated and opened in late June 2016. Everyone will remember the numerous scenes, shot by the famous team of the Saint-Tropez Brigade from 1979 until 2013. This then became an emblematic venue, after having fulfilled public functions since 1838.

When you first walk in you are given an explanation on the representation of Gendarme (The constable), and then on the global History of Cinema in Saint-Tropez. This area shows you a whole host of achievements that were shot in the Peninsula of Var. The various professions related to the cinema are honored there, without forgetting the icon of these mythical venues, the sculptural Brigitte Bardot. After having learned the ropes, with accomplishments such as « La Servante de Jean Choux » in 1930, or « Pour un Soir » by Jean Godard in 1931, she became an international star in the famous « And God Created Woman » by Roger Vadim, her first husband.

The museum is open daily from 10am to 8:30pm.

This article is the second one of a series of articles about Saint-Tropez. You can also read about the magnificence of numerous religious monuments of Saint-Tropez on our blog.

The beach of Pampelonne welcomes 30,000 visitors each day in the summer, 500 registered movements of vessels during the afternoons of August … for a turnover of €40M , that is generated from 35 beach hotels around the seaside. And what a beach! With its 4.5 km of fine sand and its classification « Outstanding natural site », it is actually one of the famous myths so dear to the Tropezians. It is the ideal place for sunbathing, relaxing with dignity, swimming and dancing. It is undoubtedly the most recognized in the Var. However, it remains largely accessible to the public and has preserved its style without allowing their success change them or be embarrassed by urbanization.

Naturally sheltered from the mistral and in the absence of road facing the sea, canes and vines brighten up your leisure. For more than 60 years, numerous beach hotels have ensured they are renown and rewritten their  history: Club 55, Tahiti  Plage, Aqua club or even Moorea without forgetting the Nikki beach, a worthy successor to the Voile rouge. Brigitte Bardot and Roger Vadim, Gilbert Becaud, Michèle Morgan, Elton John, Claudia Schiffer and Johnny Hallyday or recently Tony Parker and Paris Hilton, have made visits to these clubs. Noting that, for lodging the crew of the film « And God created woman », from simple canteen Club 55 has transformed into a reputable restaurant.

The beach of La Ponche and the beach of Fontanette: These are two adjoined beaches, which are located near the oldest neighborhood of Saint-Tropez. It is renowned for welcoming youngsters on vacation in the summer thanks to popular and traditional festivals.

But you can also enjoy the pleasure of walking on the granular sand or to swim at the very feet of the fishermen’s houses.

In the shelter of its walls Saint-Tropez protects a legendary hotel, « La Ponche », just as charming as discreet. Many film scenes have been shot here, through which the actors were made immortal. The great Françoise Sagan said, « I got up from my bed, I opened the shutters and the sea and the sky threw in my face the same blue, the same pink and the same happiness ». It was like time remained still temporary suspended, flirting between the boisterous twist of a blessed  era and the delightful sweetness of his living paintings. It is not our national icon Brigitte who will disagree nor would Jacques Cordier, the painter whose heightened sensitivity has disappeared today.

The beach of L’Escalet is not the easiest to find on Ramatuelle (just beside Saint-Tropez) but it is nonetheless one of the most pleasant. Well located between Cap Taillat and Cap Camarat, following the avenue of Casabianca, then that of the Escudelier, leading you to the parking lot. It is interesting to know because from there it leads to alternating sand and coves. Wonderful beaches on the outskirts where having picnics is a sheer delight. Dogs kept on a leash are allowed and during the summer period the beach is under surveillance.

Plage de l’Escalet à Ramatuelle

Do not forget to bring walking shoes as there are sites to explore, notably the stroll of the Good Bay (« La Baie de Bon »). The vegetation is very dense and lush, reasons why nudism has become common practice. A bewitching forest, where cactus grow up exquisitely in abundance and the cicadas enchant you. Te pines immerse themselves for their delight, while a few steps away you can swim in an ocean worthy of the Caribbean. 

There are 10 Art galleries that have set up their studios in Grimaud, proof that the majesty of this medieval city is conducive to artistic inspiration. If they have chosen to live here, it is also because it is a must for any self-respecting amateur. Each visit to the Côte d’Azur should involve a visit to these unusual places, full of history and incomparable charm. It is said that Grimaud is a village of Art that cannot be described but must be visited. The doors to these Galleries are open to visitors from April to October… Don’t miss out!

Atelier d’Art Geca (Geca Art Studio)

His eclectic repertoire of oil paintings is matched only by the fame established by this artist far beyond our borders. From January 1st to December 31st, his artwork takes center stage in Rochefort, but also in London, in Louisiana, and in Carmel, California. And we recall that China had the excellent idea to invite him to the Salon d’Art Canton (Canton Art Show). The 2013 show was a great success and the media was in awe. He was then given the honor of participating in “The 19th Guangzhou International Art Fair” in 2014.
Website

We attended the springtime opening exhibition of the Geca art Studio a couple months ago and enjoyed every minute of it. You can read more about it here.

Galerie d’Art et d’Antiquités Artagra (Artagra Gallery of Art and Antiquities)

Painting for sale at the Artagra gallery

Nestled in the heart of the village, on the hills overlooking the bay of Saint-Tropez, this pearl of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region is sure to surprise you. Its selection is constantly renewed, be it furniture or objets d’art, not to mention the quality of the paintings. A harmonious ensemble that could delight even the most skeptical. Bernard Lezoray invites you to get to know his universe, with an unparalleled notion of elegance, a distinct eye for beauty, and a strong taste for antiques.
Website

Galerie Francis Chapus (Francis Chapus Gallery)

Francis Chapus, who was an architect in his previous life, has been exhibiting his works of art for twelve years. Burrowed in an alley at the foot of the castle, his gallery is full of exquisite oil paintings. The artist-painter draws his inspiration from his travels in Moorish countries, more precisely from Egypt, Morocco, and his wintertime presence in Venice… His artistic motivations are the most noble; as he confided, “I paint because I want to!” His exhibition space, where no less than forty paintings are permanently displayed, is arranged in an old stone house. The amateurs who have visited it are amazed by the strength married to hyper-sensuality.
Website

Rêve de voiles (Dream of Sails)

It is a place that you will discover with great pleasure! The cleverness of this exhibition, which Stéphane Couchie delivers to you with grace, is that the objects up for sale are made of recycled sails. Without revealing too many details, it is a photo gallery of “sails and reflections.”

Terre de Sienne (Sienna)

The gallery showcase sculptures and ceramics of an artist who is quite unusual. Sonia Holzeitner proposes to introduce you to her Art by offering modeling classes for adults and children. A nice way to get in touch with glossed terracotta sculpture, under the shrewd eye of the Master!

Atelier d’Art Peter Thumm (Peter Thumm Art Studio)

It is in an idyllic setting that the privileged territory of this artist is located, surrounded by the hills of Grimaud and dominated by its castle. You can admire paintings on canvas, ceramics, and sculptures.
Website

Galerie Paul Janssen (Paul Janssen Gallery)

It showcases various styles of Art: Pop Art – Photography – Cobra – Contemporary Art. We’re in love with Nick Brandt’s photographs.
Website

Also noteworthy:

La Galerie du cygne (The Swan Gallery) exhibits paintings and drawings, following current artistic trends and the artwork entrusted to it.

La Galerie des Arcades (The Arcades Gallery) is selling paintings and sculptures, a very nice place that is worth discovering.

La Galerie Laurent Boyrie (The Laurent Boyrie Gallery) is an exhibition of sculptures and paintings and a collection of jewelry by various artists.

We wish you a most enriching visit, in an enchanting area where every day of the year is magical.

The Var appears to be THE destination in the hearts of the Stars, whether French or hailing from the other side of the planet. That’s what makes this area so charming! Political personalities, rising stars, and celebrities known world-wide cannot seem to feel accomplished without a « pied-à-terre » in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Brigitte Bardot

Photo Dylan Meiffret

She was the first of her generation to establish the notoriety of these idyllic places. It was in 1958 that our national B.B. claimed the Madrague, the most famous of the villas on the outskirts of Saint-Tropez. This dwelling has become a tourist attraction, many of the tourists wishing to at least see the boat. Acquired at the time for 27 million old francs (equivalent to €270,000), ìToday, that is the price of a parking lot!î says the actress. A cozy nest decorated with the colors of Provence, where Bardot lives surrounded by her numerous 4-legged companions. A fervent and militant activist of animal welfare, it is in peace that 80 of them rest in her garden.

Carla Bruni and Nicolas Sarkozy

Photo Patrice Lapoirie

It is at a splendid family property in Cap Nègre that the couple regularly establishes their summer quarters not far from Le Lavandou. Built in 1937 by André Faraggi, the Bruni-Tedeschi clan acquired it in 1971. It is in this house that the famous model grew up with her sister Valeria and her brother Virginio, who died in 2006. The villa is composed of 10 bedrooms, each with its own terrace that overlooks the ocean. The immense park allows the growth of flax and lemons imported from Italy, which cut into the surrounding cypresses. It is by taking a staircase, leading from the rocky promontory to the sea, that the former President of the Republic and Carla like to go to swim.

Johnny Hallyday

Photo Franz Chavaroche

The famous Villa Lorada was built in 1989 in Ramatuelle and was designed from A to Z according to his wishes, only a few miles from Saint-Tropez. Its name, Lorada, is the contraction of his daughter’s name, Laura, and his son’s name, David. The villa was most conducive to the king of French rock in that he, with a little inspiration and nice weather, recorded several hits there. He drew his inspiration from a hacienda, a small jewel with an extraordinary pool. With bad luck that could strike anyone, the villa was sold at auction in April 2013 by the court of Draguignan for the modest amount of €600,000, in reimbursement of sums due.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

Photo Franz Chavaroche

With regards to the couple of sulfurous American cinema, their fame has cloaked the Gulf with an elegant drapery. Fantastic spouses in the city, it is in discretion that they spend the holidays with their family of 6 children. In 2008, they acquired the castle of Miraval, near the village of Correns. Their recent separation will not detract from the legend of this mythical duo.

Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis

It is only a short twenty kilometers from Saint-Tropez, more precisely in Plan de la Tour, that this couple lived in a gigantic residence. Located in the countryside on the hill, the couple have set up several vacation residences for their many friends, a bar-restaurant, and a must-see home of the staff. Another amenities include a fitness space, a gaming room for children, and a swimming pool of course! Since they ended their marriage, the husband of the singer has listed his property for sale for the modest sum of € 55 million.

Viktoria and David Beckham

Photo Roland Gal

Even though the English couple spent their holidays in Bargemon as often as possible, the singer and her ex-footballer husband have since deserted the Var. After selling their home a few months ago, the fact remains that the region and its history have left a lasting impression on them. According to People magazine, their luxurious property would have been sold off, but, when talking about €2.75 million, everything depends on one’s point of view. Let me reminde you that the couple acquired this property in 2003 for €1.8 million euros.

Spring is around the corner, following the winter sports season, and with it come the scents of thyme and rosemary. It is arriving at the perfect time because if you do not have specific plans for your extended weekends in May (French labor day on May 1 and celebration of the end of WWII on May 8), a seductive and charming lakeside city awaits you. Adorned with an adjacent, unusual, and charming medieval village, Port Grimaud is a dream destination, nestled away in the center of the Gulf of St-Tropez.

Everything is designed to ensure your calm and serenity, which in these troubled times is a non-negligible guarantee. The cars are ordered to remain outside the perimeter reserved for locals and the parking is regulated there. An asset that many tourists appreciate because of the palpable sensation of security ensured by the Gendarmerie Nationale and by the ASL guards patrolling 24 hours a day in the city.

One of the attractions that seems to stand out—apart from the fact that each property has direct access to a mooring in front of the house for a personal boat—is indeed this security of inviolability. You can rest assured while enjoying your quiet holiday. The outbound ships are mostly sailboats, which bring you, as a bonus, a little poetic charm.

Port Grimaud I

Contact our agency to rent this apartment with a breathtaking view of Port Grimaud I beach.

But let us return to the magic of the locations, designed in their time by François Spoerry. The historic heart of this lakeside city is mainly found in Port Grimaud I. Many shops are situated there, and you will fall under the spell of the Place des Artisans (where our agency is located) and that of the Traditional Market. For people who travel with children, rest reassured that the only access is by foot.

Port Grimaud II

In Port Grimaud II (also known as Port Grimaud Sud), the houses often open onto pleasant terraces with gardens, adjoined by numerous green spaces. Its proximity to the beach is a tremendous advantage, especially since the beach is private and thus offers you unmatched tranquility. No need to drag along beach towels or even buckets and sand shovels for miles since everything is only a few steps away, a significant asset since holidays often go hand in hand with lazing about.

A dream for families, but also for retirees who come to spend a peaceful holiday in tranquility.

Port Grimaud III

Finally, Port Grimaud III is situated a little on the outskirts. It is unique in that it unites all the peculiarities specific to the two other areas and so establishes a link between them. Each person can thus choose where to pose their luggage, according to their needs and in response to their expectations.

Wherever you wish to stay in Port Grimaud, please note that our reservation schedule is online on our website boutemy.co.uk.

If you would like to come during the high season (from June to September), do not delay in contacting us to book your rental, in order to ensure the availability of the property of your dreams.

Port Grimaud is a charming lakeside town nestled away in the Gulf of St. Tropez and is ideal for leisure, offering many activities for those who decide to visit. Whether it is over the summer, or any time during the rest of the year, everyone finds happiness here, both in its location and in its offerings. It is a quasi-mythical place that will bring you relaxation in whichever form you desire, whether it be bucolic, artistic, historic, or sportive.

Port Grimaud is all about the Dolce Vita and outings, especially if you have the good sense to take off on the shuttle to St. Trop’ as soon as you feel the urge to escape. Its configuration is such that the rentals are immediately coupled with a mooring right in front of the door, a most desirable and practical proximity. If you want to go for a stroll, no problem: on board the local « coches d’eau » or on foot, the canals are bordered by walkways that you will find pleasant to walk along.

This Provencal Venice has more than one trick up its sleeve to seduce you, especially with a dinner by the water that nobody can refuse after returning from a getaway. What’s more is that every Thursday and Sunday morning, the Market and Craftsmen squares (Place du Marché and Place des Artisans) open their stalls, bringing together traditional and regional products. In the middle of a large colorful bath, you will find seafood and all the ingredients and vegetables to marry them with your sauce.

The Market Square in Port Grimaud. In the background, you can see the church where François Spoerry, the creator of Port Grimaud, is buried.

If Port Grimaud is compared to a sentinel, it is only to better preserve its little corner of paradise—in this case, a medieval village. It is impossible to ignore all the opportunities that are offered to you for penetrating this preserved nature with subtle accents suitable for strolling and engaging in activities in the fresh air. Its castle guards a story that will delight all, young and old, as much as it did during the 1930s, when the city won the hearts of the lovers of the south of France.

Its narrow streets with archways are designed for enthusiasts of old stones. Tourists have emphasized the beauty of its sun-bathed shores, as well as its resorts along the Riviera, between the azure blue of the ocean and the soothing green of neighboring countries. The charm of its vineyards is matched only by its single maquis. As for culture and art, every day during the summertime, an outing or an exhibition is improvised and designed for your entertainment.

Free guided tours of the Saint Roch chapel and mill are organized once a month.

If you are hesitating, simply let yourself be tempted by all the seduction that oscillates between Province and the Côte d’Azur. Whether or not you want to enjoy the proximity of St. Tropez to immerse yourself in its glamor universe is only a detail in itself. One of the shuttles will take you, in less time than it takes to speak the words, to place you in the wake of one of the marvels of this world.

Boutemy Real Estate has been operating in Port Grimaud for 18 years. Although the real estate market and the city is not immune to French and international economic fluctuations, one thing is certain : the market has been very active since the beginning of 2016.

Mortgage rates are lower than ever : now is the time to buy your house

It’s a historical event : mortgage rates are at an all-time low. In October 2016, buyers with a very good profile have seen rates of 1.60% for 20 year mortgages. It is a great windfall that many owners have benefitted from.

It’s true that we have recorded a net transaction increase since the beginning of the year at the agency . An interesting thing to take into account is that lower mortgage rates haven’t resulted in higher property prices in Port Grimaud until now.

The deputy director general for trading in real estate taxes Cafpi, Philippe Taboret, said: « Investors are attracted by good financial conditions in brick and mortar and its performance and stability gives value when compared with other investments. »

This investment in fact presents 2 major advantages : the opportunity for young people to build wealth and and for the older counterparts to accumulate funds.

It is now, as the lakeside city just celebrated its 50 year anniversary, that one should invest in Port Grimaud.

A house with mooring ?

If Port Grimaud attracts many holiday makers who enjoy experiencing both the luxury of the French Riviera and the authentic charm of Provence, it was first and foremost built for the sailing enthusiasts.

Indeed, François Spoerry, it’s architect and founder (who we just mentioned) would have loved to become a sailor and he made his dream come true here: he enabled residents to have a mooring for their boat or yacht right in front of their house. This is not a privilege of the happy few as there are about 2000 moorings spaces for 2400 houses and apartments. Some are located at the “port” but most of them are right in front their owners’ homes.

So if you wish to buy a property in Port Grimaud, one of the first questions we’ll ask you is “Do you own a boat or do you rent one for your holidays?”. If yes “how large should the mooring space be?” Based on these criteria, you’ll then be able to narrow down your search for your home in Port Grimaud. This is the reason why you can search by the size of your desired mooring space on our website (<12 meters, between 12 and 14 meters and >14 meters).

Marion Boutemy, agency director

To organize a visit of a house advertised on our site or to meet with one of our agents in order to let them know your requirements and search criteria, we encourage you to make contact with Marion, the agency manager.

We would love to hear from you and help you fulfill your real estate project.

To do so, you can call us on 04 94 56 56 58 or meet with us at the agency which is located at 32 place des Artisans in Port Grimaud.

Did you know that what we today call the Gulf of Saint Tropez was for a long while called the Gulf of Grimaud ?

Yes, this is our charming village which for a long time gave its name for what is today one of the most popular tourist regions in Europe, and we are proud of this !

We are also proud of the architecture in our little provencal Venice of which architect François Spoerry was the visionary for this architectural genius. While the Mediterranean coast has often been built without any real aesthetic appeal or heritage conservation in the years after the war, François Spoerry imagined a riparian city with numerous marinas enabling everyone to enjoy the sea while at the same time appreciating the tasteful and respectful surrounding architecture.

It is therefore today, in these surroundings that will take your breath away, that our village has earned the label “20th Century heritage” from UNESCO and offers a collection of real estate of 2,400 properties and more than 2,000 moorings for boats.

What a luxury ! In fact almost all the properties have their own mooring.

Port Grimaud : a collection of 2000 luxury marinas

Today, the possibility of enjoying your own mooring is without a doubt one of the major attractions in Port Grimaud.

Boutemy, our real estate agency, offers a wide range of rental properties with mooring in Port Grimaud, whether they are houses, villas or apartments.

To view them, you would need to have a look at the heading entitled properties with mooring on our website.

You can then refine your search criteria :

– holiday rentals / sales
– type of property : apartment or house
– length of the mooring

Some moorings are located right on the doorstep of the rental property while others are a little further.

In the second case, the rental prices of the house or apartment + mooring are slightly lower.

According to your criteria and requirements, we leave you free to choose how close to the mooring you want to be or whether or not the rate is more important.

The widths (from 2,5m) and lengths of the moorings (up to 18m) are indicated on each of our advertisements. Therefore take these criteria into account in relation to the size of your boat when you choose your location.

In fact, in every listing we display the availability of the marina. In green, contact us : you can stay in this property, in red, the dates are no longer available.

A selection of marinas to rent

You can view the marinas to rent for the holidays on our website and we encourage you also to subscribe to our Youtube channel to be the first to know when a new property is offered up for rental.

Below are a few marinas in in which you can stay from April to October.

A stunning 168m2 villa with a 13.5m x 5m mooring.

A lovely fisherman’s house with a 10m x 4m mooring.

or this breathtaking villa in Port Grimaud Sud with its 15m x 4.20m mooring

We love advising you on what there is to do in Port Grimaud, whether it is for a day, a weekend or a week.

Today, we would simply like to present Grimaud our village to you : its history but also what you can discover if you spend a day here.

Grimaud is a high medieval village overlooking the clear blue bay of the Gulf of Saint Tropez, and is dominated by the remarkable ruins of the castle dating from the 11th century. The village is situated on the Mediterranean coast in the Maures Massif, the wooded hills which extend to the south west up to Pierrefeu-du-Var and Hyères, and to the north east in the direction of Fréjus. The sinuous D558 road which links the Gulf of St Tropez crosses the Maures after La Garde-Freinet, through oak, chestnut and pin forests. The winding D14 road,which is even narrower, runs towards the west of Grimaud through the hills up to Collobrières, passing close to Chartreuse de la Verne.

Grimaud through the centuries

The origin of the name Grimaud remains uncertain. Certain historians thought that it comes from Grimaldi, the family who reigned over Monaco, but this origin is debatable.

Pre-historic times

The vestiges of the pre-historic times are the hills of Grimaud which comprise of 2 menhirs; situated 3 km to the north west of the village, on the Couzes farm and on the Avelan side of the hill; one of two menhirs has an anthropomorphic side. At Our-Dame-de-la-Queste there are some basalt mills (black washed stone), and a sculpted Phoenician Carthaginian head can be seen in a cave situated in what we today call Port-Grimaud.

Gallo-Roman Times

In Ancient Times, Grimaud was the port of Sambracis, and several ancient gallo-roman objects were discovered in the area, notably large stone pots two meters high found buried underground for anchoring boats. A very large number of Roman ceramics were discovered here, notably amphora and slabs.

Medieval times

Grimaud was the Domaine of the Viscount of Marseille, then the Lords of Pontevès and Jean Cossa and, up until the 17th century, Lords of Castellane-St-Juers.

The high position of Grimaud offers a magnificent view over the surrounding hills and the Gulf of Saint Tropez, a bay which carried the name of Gulf of Grimaud until the 17th century. The overhanging passage which crosses the center of the Maures offered Grimaud a strategic position in the Middle Ages.

Discover Grimaud

A typical provencal village

The village has been carefully restored, but not excessively so and has successfully retained its authentic character.

Certain houses in the village date back from the 15th and 16th centuries. Many of them have been built with stone walls in the ancient style, and numerous others have been restored with luminous paste colors typical of Provence. In the rue des Arcades, you’ll see a house dating from the 15th century called the House of Templiers, whose façade and underground area are typical of the time.

The village is rather grand for a provencal village and you can easily spend half a day winding your way around the streets, exploring them, especially certain narrow medieval passages and a few passages with low vaults.

The Tourism Office offers visitors a free brochure which offers a walking tour of Grimaud, and you can view the corresponding signs on the buildings offering the visit itineraries. Several old village fountains are really interesting and, in particular, that of the Place Neuve dating from 1886.

A high-perched village which is easy to visit

The fishing villages and the villages on the other side, so typical of Provence and so picturesque, can be a problem for young children, people with reduced mobility and the elderly. Luckily, Grimaud has built a glass and iron lift (to transport people to the village or to the main part of the village, where the town hall certain main buildings and other shops are found).

The principal challenge for Grimaud throughout the centuries : the provision of water

All Grimaud’s water was supplied by three Middle Age wells up until the 16th century. Then, an aqueduct system was built to lead the water from the Pont des Fées (3 km to the north) towards the castle and the village. Some remains of the aqueduct are still there and le Pont des Fées dating from the 15th century which crosses the river Garde, is a magnificent ancient site.

The Pont des Fées : « The Fairy Bridge »

From the 19th century, the expanding population required more water and an air pump was built in 1886 to guide the water to the village from a low lying source.

The church 

The village church is Saint-Michel church. It dates from the 12th century and is a Roman parochial church with a square bell tower. There is also the lovely stone Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs in the village, which was built in 1482.

La Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs : « The Chapel of the White Penitents ».

Shops and local businesses

Grimaud has a vibrant commercial village life, but the shops are located in several locations throughout the village. There is a grocer, a butchery and three bakeries/confectioners. You can also find several real estate agencies and numerous art galleries.

Specialities and presents to bring back home

Grimaud is situated in the wine region of Provence, and the local vineyards offer the famous wines « Côtes de Provence AOC”. A wine cooperative is situated not far from the village. The other specialities produced here are honey, flowers, sweet chestnuts and cork.

In this article, we would like to introduce you to Port Grimaud’s internal regulations.

As you may know, Port Grimaud is a collection of 3 « districts » belonging to the municipality of Grimaud but managed by Free Union Associations  (ASL : Association Syndicale Libre) like private co-ownerships.

The aim of these associations is « the management of common portions and the port, conservation, general surveillance of the Lacustre city as well as respect of specifications and special provisions. » (source)

The 3 districts are :

• Port Grimaud I, the historic district with the Saint Francis of Assissi Church, the Market Place and the Place des Artisans where you can find us. This is the largest district and has 867 moorings.

• Port Grimaud II is also called Port Grimaud South and was built between 1974 and  2002. The district has 679 moorings.

• Port Grimaud III was built between 1978 and 1993 (492 moorings)

Each district has its own internal regulations and it is good to have these in mind to derive the most benefit out of your stay in our charming village.

In this article, we remind you of the regulations prescribed in Port Grimaud welcome pack.

– Proper dress code is required,
– Dogs must be on a leash and are forbidden on the beach,
– Vehicle access to boats is confined to loading and unloading and no vehicle may be parked for more than an hour throughout the year,
– Cleanliness of sites must be respected : throwing of objects of any nature into canals, streets or gardens is strictly forbidden,
– Picnics as well as barbecues are forbidden,
– Please respect the peace of the residents,
– For safety reasons, swimming and fishing are forbidden in the canals,
– Laundry may not be hung from windows or on boats,
– Speed is limited to 3 knots (5 km/h). Do not cause waves,
-Sailing in the port is forbidden,
– Bunkering of hydrocarbons par in they quays is strictly forbidden,
– Emptying of tanks in the port is not allowed,
– Do not waste water and and use a jet wash to wash your boat,
– Finally, respect the peace of your surroundings and your neighbors.

As you can see, these rules are stricter than other coastal towns in the Côte d’Azur but it is because of them that Port Grimaud today enjoys an unequalled reputation for safety and peace.

In fact, if you own a property in Port Grimaud and you want to carry out  some work or modifications (especially those that are likely to affect the outer appearance of your property), you must make the ASL in your district aware of your intention. In order to maintain the harmony and authenticity of the architecture around you, you must respect certain urban regulations, an overview of which you can view here.

We hope that this article has cleared up certain peculiarities around Port Grimaud. Our village welcomes many holiday makers each summer and the internal regulations are there to ensure that we all live together as harmonious as possible.

Often called la “Provencal Venice”, Port Grimaud is a small harmonious paradise between sky and sea, nestled in the Gulf of Saint Tropez. Since 2002 it has been part of the XXth century heritage and this riparian city givers a unique architectural offering, with a mixture of studios, apartments and sumptuous fishing houses. Amongst the canals and islands, amid the sails and the masts, it is a gateway to the open seas and freedom. The sweetness of living here is like nothing else, all your senses are heightened under this mediterranean sun where colors, scents and sounds mingle in the air.

So when the dream becomes reality when you buy a property here, life suddenly seems to take on another sense, as this haven of peace is the ideal place to be.
Port Grimaud has the peculiarity of being organized into private co-properties, which ensure maintenance and preservation of the property. Without being closed off to visitors, despite its private atmosphere, the heart of the city can be visited on foot. Indeed, vehicles are requested to remains outside and the peace and respect of the inhabitants is one of its major attractions.

Who are the property owners in this lakeside city ?

A large number of owners in Port Grimaud are company directors, often on retirement. Although a portion may not be part of the Jet Set like most their Saint-Tropez counterparts, this is because they have chosen to live a peaceful life far away from the spotlight and the clicking of the camera.

So after having become acquainted with this unique and paradise-like place, let’s look further at the  sought-after opportunities on offer to capture that rare pearl. If a studio is your preferred option, don’t worry because the town consists of around 2% tenants for 98% of owners (the latter being 50% of them French and 50% foreigners, most of them from neighboring European countries).

This combination of unique real estate, which extends over 75 hectares, has a total of 2,400 accommodation options. The evolution of building in Port Grimaud has, over time, distinguished three areas that are managed by separate and autonomous trade unions.

Boutemy Real estate specializes in Port Grimaud and is particularly well established in the market to assist you completely in this regard.

A selection of studios which deserve a visit

From around twenty properties, ranging from a studio to  2 rooms, here are two which could correspond to your search criteria and could give you an overview of the numerous possibilities offered by our real estate agency. Firstly a large studio of 30 square meter, with a large balcony, a parking space on the main parking and a view over Saint Tropez behind closed doors goes for €250,000.

Studio for sale on our websites boutemy.net and boutemy.co.uk

There is also a cabin studio available with a loggia measuring 26 m², for the sum of €165,000, with a breathtaking view over the canals. It has a main living area with a kitchenette, a bathroom and a bedroom as you come in. The cherry on top is that it has a loggia facing the South east side of the canal, climate control and a parking bay with possibility of underground garage. This is an opportunity to take, and you can view it on our site boutemy.net/en.

In any event, when making contact with our agency you are in good hands, so without any further ado, come and pay our agency a visit or even send us an email to agence@boutemy.net with your search criteria. We will do what it takes to find the studio which will brighten up your days and enchant your nights.

Exactly half a century ago, the State issued the building permit for the construction of the lakeside city.

On this aerial view of 1955, you can see the mouth of the Giscle and all of the marshland on which the future lakeside city will be built.

A crazy bet. These words quoted by Mayor Alain Benedetto on June 14 at the 50th anniversary of Port-Grimaud, symbolize the incredible saga of the birth of an outstanding project.

« In the end, it’s an exemplary success. » Grimaud is fortunate enough to have in its region a city whose global reputation reflects on us all », he continued.

Yves and Bernard, the two sons of François Spoerry, designer of the lakeside city were on hand to unveil the plaque commemorating this highly symbolic day of the issuance of the building permit, that of June 14, 1966.

‘’It is an important event for the whole family » stressed Yves. « Being here is very poignant, » said his brother Bernard. « This site was only a swamp but my father has succeeded in this unlikely undertaking. »

The series of speeches ended with a tasty anecdote told by Alain Benedetto: in fact, the building permit of Port-Grimaud was not issued on the 14^th but on the 13^th of June: ‘’The date was changed to please the senior official Paul Ploix (father-in-law of the elected representative Florence Ploix, Editor’s note), in charge of the urban planning initiatives. June the 14th is the date of birth of his son Christian! « 

Right after, a Spoerry’s exhibition was inaugurated at the Community Hall. A must-see available for one month (until July 14).

1966-2016: AN ALBUM TO TRACE OUT HISTORY

‘’Port-Grimaud is 50 years old’’ is the title of a nice book newly released for the occasion.
It’s author is Bernard Spoerry, son of the master and it reminisces in pictures and sketches the crazy and beautiful adventure of the lakeside city’s construction. Here are a few images. 3000 copies were made and 1000 numbered. You can get hold of a copy in the village.

1962: François Spoerry has just acquired 35 acres. He is at the eve of his crazy dream.

As incredible as it may seem, the Great bridge was built on… dry land, just a few hundred meters away from the nearest canal!

1967: the first 14 houses are completed. 125 000 francs for a « Fisherman’s house »

François Spoerry with Brigitte Bardot at the very beginning of the construction

François Spoerry loved to repeat that his village was « like the nested fingers of two hands… One for the land, the other for the sea! »This article was first published in France on Var Matin, our local newspaper.

If you are traveling to Port Grimaud or to France for the first time, here a few tips for your visit.

Getting dressed

We are located in one of the sunniest areas of France, so you’ll most likely have a lot of sunshine whether you come and visit us in the summer or in the winter.
However, it can get gold in the winter, so don’t forget to layer up.

In general, people are dressed casually, even in fancy villages and cities such as Saint-Tropez or Cannes. However, if this is true when you stroll down the streets, you’ll need to dress up to enter casinos or gourmet restaurants.

Speaking with French people

France in general may not be the country where you’ll find the most English speakers, but we receive millions of tourists every year, so everyone in the industry does speak English. Don’t worry, you’ll easily be able to order a cup of coffee or a good meal at the restaurant (lots of restaurants have menus in different languages).

If you’d like to give French a try, start by learning how to say Hello, Good bye and Thank you.

Hello: bonjour (before 5pm) or bonsoir (after 5pm)

Good bye: au revoir

Thank you: merci or merci beaucoup (thank you very much).

We also suggest you download an app that enables you to speak your question or phrase to your smartphone and it will be automatically speak the translated version.

You’ve probably heard that we French people either say “tu” or “vous” for “you” and this may seem a little intimidating or confusing. Without entering into too many details, use “tu” when speaking to children and “vous” for everyone else. Only friends and family members use “tu”. And if you still have doubts, it’s better to start with “vous” and wait for other people to ask to “se tutoyer” (= to say “tu”).

Currency

Our national currency is the euro. It’s the same as in a lot of other European countries, which can be very convenient if you are travelling to nearby countries, such as Italy for instance.

Taxis/Cabs

Be aware that most taxis do not accept credit card so make sure you have withdrawn cash from an ATM before. If that’s not the case, you can still ask the driver to make a stop at an ATM on your way to your destination.

This profession is strictly regulated so the price should be the same for everyone. It depends on the number of kilometers, the time of the day and on the number of pieces of luggage in the trunk.

Uber is also very popular in France so you can give drive with them as well.

Tipping

At bars and restaurants, a service charge is systematically included in the bill so tipping is absolutely optional (French restaurant owners love foreigners who don’t know that and add a 15% to 20% tip). If you’re happy with the service you can still add a euro or two at the end of your meal.

These are some basic rules when it comes to visiting France. If you need more information or are looking for a vacation rental near Saint-Tropez, please reach out to us. We’ll be happy to assist you.