Port Grimaud:
Designed in 1996 by French architect and sailor, Francoise Spoerry, Port Grimaud overlooks the Gulf of St. Tropez and captures the atmosphere of a Venetian fishing village but with all the colours of Provence. Small stone bridges link pretty streets heavy with the scent of flowers, the network of canals is lined with pastel coloured homes and shady squares with cafes, boutiques and restaurants, all giving this classified historical monument a unique atmosphere. With its sheltered position and easy access to the Gulf, Port Grimaud is a dream come true for boating fans, no two properties are alike and most have their own mooring. In addition to organised water tours you can hire your own small motor boat and spend hours sailing the canals and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The best way to visit the nearby towns of St. Tropez and Ste Maxime is by the regular ferry from the marina. The ferry also provides spectacular views of the Gulf and, on a clear day, even as far as the Alps
St Tropez :
Claimed to be the most visited village in the world, St Tropez started life in 68 AD as a tiny fishing port. At the turn of the 20 th century the irredescent light and picturesque surroundings attracted a host of artists. In the mid 50's a young Franco Russian film maker, Roger Vadim, made his first feature film 'And god created woman' on the sun dazzled beaches. The film was seen the world over and attracted film stars, playboys and top models to spend sun soaked days on Pampelone beach and starry nights in St Tropez. Still today many celebrities holiday in the area and can often be seen wandering through the small streets with designer bags. You can either just sit in a cafe sipping iced coffee people watching or saunter along the bustling waterfront amongst artists selling their work and be amazed by the beautiful boats. For those who need to indulge in retail therapy, St Tropez has an impressive selection of unusual and designer shops, including a typical Provencal market every Sat
Food and Wine:
France is renowned the world over for its cuisine and this area of Provence is no exception. Dining out can be a truly fantastic experience with everything from Michelin star restaurants to beach bars where you can eat superb seafood with your toes in the Med. St Tropez has a variety of superb restaurants but to fully appreciate the best of local cuisine you must visit the villages, farms and auberges close by. Many restaurants offer fixed price menus, these are often a speciality and offer good value. Ask when booking for a list of the best local restaurants. This is a wine producing area and there are many wine trails that take you from one chateau to the next where you can taste and buy the wine produced. The local Provence speciality is Rose and you will see most people drinking it at restaurants. Apart from buying wine direct from the Chateau the best place to sample and buy is at the local co-operative or Vigerons; there are two close by (St Tropez and Grimaud) both worth a visit
Other Activities:
Wine trails and tasting, Canoeing, Rafting
