ST TROPEZ

Before Brigitte Bardot visited in the 1950’s to star in Et Dieu Créa la Femme (And God Created Woman), Saint Tropez was once a quiet fishing village. It wasn’t until after her appearance that Saint Tropez became a jet set favourite for many international tourists and celebrities. Not only does its Mediterranean water sparkle, the multimillionaire pound yachts moored up in Vieux Port catch the eyes of many. Although it is very busy and prices steep during July and August, this is the time to visit if you want to see Saint Tropez at its most glamorous. During this time, A-listers tack in by the yachtful for villa soirées in Le Club 55 on Pampelonne beach and Byblos hotel’s Les Caves du Roy nightclub. With a very lively nightlife, some visitors might prefer days spent poolside, enjoying a leisurely lunch or celebrity spotting from a beach or on board a luxury yacht. Saint Tropez is also accustomed to fashion having hosted the Chanel fashion parade in spring 2010. For those fashionistas, simple light 

weight summer fabrics are always a winner. As this scene isn’t for everyone, others might want to explore the historic charms of the village during low season when the weather is just as pleasant during May, June and September. Saint Tropez remains a Provencal village filled with history and tradition where everyday life is most charming. After exploring the old fishing quarter of La Ponche, head to the old town where you can wander the open-air markets for antiques, splash out in upmarket boutiques, admire modern art at Musée de l’Annonciade and stop for a drink in one of the overflowing restaurants on Place des Lices square. If you are looking for a good picture, the views from the 16th century citadel are stunning. Although many consider Saint Tropez a playground for the wealthy, anyone can enjoy an afternoon at a seafront café, drinking local wine and soaking up the Cote d’Azur sun.

LA PONCHE

Retaining its small village charm, La Ponche is the old fishing district of Saint Tropez located to the east of Vieux Port. Hotel Ponche is the cultural heart of the area which was bought by a family in the early 1950s. Owning 22 small but exclusive rooms, celebrities have been known to visit here.

VIEUX PORT

Be charmed by the idyllic scene of small fishing boats, fashionable super yachts and pastel coloured Mediterranean terraced houses as you stroll through Vieux Port. Also known as the heart of Saint Tropez, this is where the old fishing village first sprung to life. An ancient market square filled with colourful fruit, vegetables and flower stalls in the early morning. 

TAHITI BEACH

Located at the northern end of Pampelonne beach with brightly coloured deckchairs, sun loungers and beach umbrellas, Tahiti beach is hard to miss. This private beach club offers the golden opportunity to enjoy the Mediterranean coast in an exclusive setting and optimum comfort. Visiting by yacht? why not make a reservation and be tendered onto the sands of their private beach where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails on a lounger, followed by a gourmet lunch. 

CITADELLE DE ST TROPEZ

Originally built by engineer Raymond de Bonnefons in 1602, this hexagonal keep was designed to defend the coast against Spain. Later bought by the town in 1993, this building became one of the most visited historical and cultural sites in Saint Tropez. Due to its dominating hillside location overlooking Saint Tropez to the east of La Ponche, the Citadelle boats beautiful views over the bay.

MUSÉE L'ANNONCIADE

The Annonciade Museum is a reminder of how the village of Saint Tropez was one of the most active places of avant-garde paintings during the 20 th century. Here he invited many other painters to join him, including Cross, Matisse, Derain and Marquet. Although very small, this museum is famous and showcases an impressive international collection of modern art from between 1890 and 1950. 

NIKKI BEACH

Chilled champagne, innovative dinning, alluring people, fantastic DJ's, exciting entertainment, incredible events and amazing fashion shows all come together to create a scene that is not to be missed. Located to the west side of Club 55 and Tahiti Beach, this private club is also a great stop for those visiting by yacht. 

PLACE DE LICES

Place de Lices, Saint Tropez' charming central square lined with trees, cafes and pétanque players is a must visit. Simply sit in a café terrace watching the world go by, or jostling with the crowds at its weekly market held every Tuesday and Saturday from 10:00-13:00 and 14:00-18:00. Not only do they sell food, there are also stalls for the visiting souvenir shoppers.

CLUB 55

If you would rather remain no more than three minutes away from a chilled glass of rosé, the most stylish and discreet of Saint Tropez's beach bars is Club 55. If planning to visit Club 55, you will need to book far in advance. It is also known for having prices that stun, so be sure to check the prices before ordering. 

Family Beach

Plage des Jumeaux's location in the middle of the bay guarantees a great beach setting, with more than 200 mattresses and sun loungers. For those looking to make your visit a more comfortable one, mattresses can be hired for €20 and umbrellas for €6 with a bath towel at your disposal. Alternatively, there is also a shaded terrace, watered by a slight refreshing mist so you can enjoy the view of the sea from the comfort of their cool living space.