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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.

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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). »

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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.

Source

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 Yael, who is just back from maternity leave.

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,

Yael, Marion and Mathilde

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, Yael 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.
Site

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.
Site

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.
Site

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.
Site

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!
Site

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.
Site

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.
Site

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.

The season for major sporting events in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez is here!

The magnificent weather which has set in throughout France and particularly in our beautiful region since February, is favourable to the resumption of sporting activities and major competitions that will thrill both experienced sportsmen and spectators alike. In spring, sailing, running and cycling will take centre stage.

The Saint-Tropez International Marathon

In a previous article we talked about this famous Marathon made up of 3 events on March 31st. It will link Sainte-Maxime to Saint-Tropez, a renowned seaside resort on the Côte d’Azur and an emblematic village in the Var.

March also marked the return of the regattas, which are so dear to the hearts of the skippers of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Regatta « les 900 Nautiques »

Picture taken during the 2018 edition. Copyright Gilles Martin-Raget

For its 10th edition, the Grande Course (renamed « Off the coast of Saint-Tropez » in 2017 and 2018) once again cruised the Mediterranean sea without a stopover. The crews competed from 21 to 31 March to cover the 900 miles of the event.  The single sailors and duets were subject to the same crossing but only over 400 nautical miles.

This event is renowned for its breathtaking course. The weather conditions are amazing at this time of year, enough to satisfy the enthusiasts of the open sea. An excellent practice for many transatlantic racing enthusiasts and professionals who see this sporting event as a perfect opportunity to develop their skills.

You can read an interview of Clément Giraud, the winner, here.

The Granfondo Gassin

Saint-Tropez will host the first stage of the Grand Trophée cyclo-sport challenge over a distance of 162 kilometres, which will take place on the steep roads of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. After the colder winter months, it is the ideal opportunity for cycling competitors to get away from the training sessions in the grey and cold weather.

A first-class programme is in store for this 33rd edition. This endurance event is open to anyone over the age of 18. Competitors are expected from all over the world.

The race will start on Sunday, April 7, 2019 at 8:00 am, at the old port of Saint Tropez with a final sprint in the village of Gassin. Renowned to be one of the most beautiful in France with its breathtaking view of the Gulf, you can enjoy its charms. A jersey designed in the colours of the event will be given to all participants!

The 20th anniversary of Les Voiles

Registrations will open in April, so we wanted to mention the jubilee of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It will take place from Saturday 28 September to Sunday 06 October 2019. No fewer than 4,000 sailors are expected for a full week of extraordinary regattas.

2/10/2018, Les Voiles de saint-Tropez 2018, Day 2. Copyright Gilles Martin-Raget

Registrations will open in April, so we wanted to mention the jubilee of the Voiles de Saint-Tropez. It will take place from Saturday 28 September to Sunday 06 October 2019. No fewer than 4,000 sailors are expected for a full week of extraordinary regattas.

The most beautiful sails and hulls have built a solid reputation among enthusiasts, who are committed to the spirit of sporting friendship that governs the competition. 

Still at the initiative of the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez, Les Petites Voiles will share the honours owed to the competitors. Young tropezians, selected amongst boys and girls aged 6 to 12, will have to defend the colours of their club by racing in the heart of the port. There is no doubt that their families will be thrilled once again!

What to do in Grimaud during the winter season

Grimaud in the winter season is like an experience in a foreign land! All the activities that are organized in summer appear to be very distant memory, but don’t underestimate the dynamism that animates the Provençal Venice as there are still many outings and activities. We hope that you will include some to the activities below in your next vacation in the region.

The « bowling du golfe »

Located quart St Pont les Mûres in Grimaud, it has caught the attention of the famous travel book Petit Futé that recommends it warmly. It’s true that its eight synthetic tracks for computerized competitions, are worth the effort of coming to try and make a strike. The place is modern and friendly and has bowling alleys but there is also a billiard table and a bar in the centre to take a drink. Add to that an XXL video screen and a game room where American billiards and electronic animations can be found.

Bowling is open all year round. The facilities are designed to accommodate a young audience from 3 years old and parking is free.

Golf Up

The 9-hole Pitch and Putt golf course with its synthetic turf is set in a bucolic setting. The training area is known to be the most modern in the Var. Its academy is managed by qualified professionals. Customers experience ultra-connected entertainment with a fully computerized ball machine, pick-up robot and Trackman. You can enjoy a wonderful lunch at la Table des Oliviers and find equipment at the pro shop.

The Golf Up website

The Beauvallon Golf Club

It is a true masterpiece with its 18 holes in an environment that offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. It covers 40 hectares in an exceptionally well maintained natural setting.

Website of the Golf du Beauvallon

Grimaud Aventure

It is in the centre of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez that the accrobranche park is located in a pine forest whose 2 hectares are ideal for adventure. More than 60 workshops are available with 6 courses that include progressive difficulties. A unique opportunity to spend an exceptional moment with family or friends. The routes have smart carabiners or continuous lifelines to offer you aerial games that require balance and strength in complete safety. You can refresh yourself under the shade of this unusual forest of umbrella pines.

From 1 October to 28 February, trips are offered every day from 10.30 am to 5 pm (last departure at 3.30 pm).

More information can be found here.

Grimaud Karting Leisure

Discover a unique fully equipped structure, with its certified two-way circuit and its facilities (workshop, stands, terrace, snack bar…). Located in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Grimaud Karting offers several models for everyone: LR5-160, RX-250, GT5-270, HANDIKART, BI-PLACE…. Machines adapted to all ages are therefore available in the park, as well as many initiation and race packages: Initiation courses, Endurance Mini Grand Prix, Grand Prix, or even birthday packages, etc..

Click here for more information about Grimaud Karting Leisure.

Pep’s Spirit

The Pep’s Spirit allows you to discover a different side of Saint-Tropez from the one that is synonymous with jet set and bling bling. Far from the glitter, it’s the ultimate eco-tourism trip! You have the choice between a wide range of activities, with an instructor or in complete autonomy. But whether you are guided or free, outings in turquoise waters offer many surprises. Each trip is a blend of land and sea, along the coast or in the discovery of the « forêt des Maures », a delightful combination of relaxation and action.

Thus the rentals of giant paddle or pirogue, Nordic walking as well as road cycling or kayaking… everything is an opportunity to take care of yourself by having a good time. Private lessons can be provided upon request.

The La Mène ranch

You will find it at the base of the « massif des Maures ». The objective of the team of passionate relay enthusiasts is to make you discover the whole thing on horseback. It is a genuine healthy course, in the wild nature of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, which is offered to you here. Pony and horse initiation courses are available. The first ones are designed to be used by the young ones, while the second ones are a real learning experience for you! Handling and sorting of livestock will only lead to slipping into the cowboy costume. And you shouldn’t miss the walks that are offered on Grimaud for anything in the world.

Exceptional encounters made on the spot are composed of llamas, pigs or biquettes. Activities for children include a bouncy castle, trampolines, but the young and old will gather at the end in the western atmosphere at the Ranch Grill.

Website of the Ranch

All these activities are open all year round, even in winter. They will give you the chance to discover Grimaud in a completely different way, so have fun:-).

The timeless charm of Port Grimaud

Well protected in the hollow of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Port Grimaud is a haven of peace nestled between the sky and the sea. This cozy haven originates from the productive personality of François Spoerry, an architect who in the 1960s deemed it worthwhile to transform a swamp into our beautiful « Venise provençale ». Thus this delightful place was conceived, in which you only have to set sail to enjoy the freedom of the high seas…. A family destination par excellence!

Its canal system

The canals were instinctively established on the marshes of the Giscle River around which his medieval village was developed. If it was compared to the Venetian city, it was due to the fact that it was built on its canals. Of course the French style has been the norm here, with fishermen’s houses similar to those found in Saint-Tropez. A boat service provides a scheduled service to the famous village.

Its unique style

The main reason Port Grimaud stands out is because of its layout. Its houses were built with waterfront facilities and (almost) each one has its own private mooring. Whether you want to go to Sainte-Maxime, to enjoy its endless beaches, or dive into the jet set world of Saint-Tropez, everything is possible. Whether you are on holiday or staying here for a while, this pretty corner of Paradise gives us a glimpse of what charm is all about.

colored houses by the lakefront

Its numerous wonders

In addition to being a lakeside city, Port Grimaud is the perfect gateway to an extraordinary cultural wealth. There are countless activities that highlight a wide range of artistic fields in both the winter and summer. You’ll find numerous art galleries as well as a traditional open air market. The old-fashioned alleys are dotted with café terraces and restaurants offering a wide variety of culinary specialities.

port-grimaud-vacation

Its environment

One of the distinctive features of Port Grimaud is that it belongs to the medieval village of Grimaud, which is characterized by the ruins of a feudal castle. This is a landmark, with a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, which until the end of the 19th century was actually called the Gulf of Grimaud. The Var region is a lovely spot in the sun, where many musical outings and other activities take place. Its authenticity is incomparable to the tourist sites available elsewhere, with its cobbled streets that smell of the Provence and its history.

One of the typical Grimaud alleys

The charm of Grimaud

We strongly recommend one of the many discovery trails that are available for hikers. The Pont des Fées trail is one of them, where you can discover legends and geology, historical and cultural heritage. The hinterland of Var, in the heart of the Maures Massif, has many assets.

grimaud-le-pont-des-fees

The pont des fées / The fairy bridge

If you want to experience these timeless delights, the Boutemy Immobilier Agency will be pleased to guide you through Port Grimaud neighbourhoods. If you want to get in touch with us, check out this blog where we publish weekly articles. You will be dealing with a team of professionals, so don’t hesitate to contact us to find out more about the properties we offer for rent or for sale.

Port Grimaud, a perfect blend between traditions and modernity

Port Grimaud is a perfect blend between respect for traditions, modernity and the preservation of nature. All those who are familiar with it will boast about the many attractions of this Provençal Venice, which is a natural reflection of the passionate spirit of a very great artist, François Spoerry.

François Spoerry’s architecture 

We owe it to François Spoerry who, by using recycled materials to create his apartments and houses was well ahead of his time. He has recreated all the Provençal charm by imagining and crafting Port Grimaud, a unique model of its kind. In order to use the best means possible, this trendsetter has thus ensured that everyone can have a mooring within the vicinity of their home. Nowadays, we can hardly imagine that this pleasant lakeside city is only 51 years old.

This exceptional architectural structure has led to Port Grimaud being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the 20th century site in 2002. Its geographical location is a major factor behind its prominence! It is well sheltered in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez but its easy accessibility to everything is the reason for its richness and popularity. Regarding private condominiums, these areas are provided with unique services although they are nevertheless not closed to visitors. To ensure the privacy of residents and tenants, vehicles are left outside in the parking lot. But discovering the village on foot is the best opportunity for you to enjoy it to the fullest.

The beautiful coloured facades of the houses in Port Grimaud

The wild nature

Port Grimaud is one of the most important « marinas » on the French Riviera most certainly for its 2,000 moorings, which make it a gateway to the deep blue sea. You will find electric boats, these ecological water coaches that sail on the canals. This is simply the Dolce Vita version of Provence, which you can share with friends or family for a very pleasant outing.

The coastline instantly makes you think of beaches and the sun and when you see the sea you immediately think of water sports. But at the gateway to the Massif des Maures, the lakeside city also offers you the opportunity to enjoy beautiful hikes as far as Sainte-Maxime. To enjoy a panoramic view of Saint-Tropez and its gulf, this is the best itinerary you can find to enjoy its wild nature. Make a stop in one of the small coves along the coast, take a bath or take a dip in its abyss. If you feel like it, you can dive, but also water ski, canoe or rent a pedal boat.

The massif des Maures

The port has its village

Do not forget that the lakeside city belongs to the municipality of Grimaud, a beautiful medieval village. Therefore, you can enjoy many festivities while making even more discoveries. Grimaud has managed to preserve an important cultural heritage characterized by its Occitan charm with its village in the heart of the land. Classified historical monuments such as the feudal castle and the Saint-Michel church are its pride and joy. The Popular Arts and Traditions Museum offers you the opportunity to discover what Provençal life was like in the past with its flowered streets and old-fashioned paved houses commemorating it all the time.

The Popular Arts and Traditions Museum of Grimaud

But Grimaud also represents the cultural richness in its purest form, with exhibitions in its very own streets. The guided tours are more like  » Heritage events  » or  » Stories about Grimaud « . As for the festivities, they take place all year round and the concerts organized within the castle feature top-class artistic events. The famous Grimaldines are its crowning glory, like an emblem displaying the colours of this corner of Paradise.
Finally, do not leave it without experiencing its natural and culinary heritage, it’s a blessing.

Events and entertainment in Grimaud in December 2018

The year is coming to an end and there are a lot of activities to be enjoyed in our lovely Provençal village during the month of December.

Saturday 01 December: Rugby Club lottery

A friendly and exciting rugby atmosphere will be the main attraction. Be the sponsors of one evening to encourage our young people to pursue their personal and collective development through our club and this magnificent sport, the school of life… Rugby.
To win: an electric bike, a TV, a PS4, household appliances and many other prizes!
Drinks and meals are available on site.

6pm – Blaquières Sports Complex
Reservations at 07 86 34 34 46 22 22
Organized by the Gulf Rugby Club

Tuesday 04 December: Advent evening in Grimaud

Every year, Grimaud Europe celebrates the tradition of Advent, the period preceding Christmas, with a great festive evening. Everyone brings traditional dishes, salty or sweet delicacies from their region or country to savour with friends. A very pleasant way to get to know each other better and to discover our customs and those of our neighbours.

6pm – Beausoleil Hall – Free entry Organised by the extra-municipal commission of Grimaud Europe

Friday 07 December: Celebration of Light

To celebrate the start of the Christmas and New Year festivities, the Association des Feux de la Saint Jean invites you to come and enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. This year, the traditional torchlight walk for children will be led by artists who are passionate about it.

6pm – Place Vieille – Free entry
Co-organized by the association des Feux de la Saint Jean and the association of Grimaud Animations

Sunday 09 December: Sundays on the Stage

« Perfume & Suspicions » by Troupe Les Miss on stage.

Every Thursday afternoon, the four Martin sisters meet to play cards. But this Thursday will be a little special when Commissioner Oscar Berthomieu visits them to announce the murder of Irma Santos, who recently returned to her hometown. A murder in which the sisters may well be involved. Four sisters, four contrasting personalities but no alibi….. Twenty-four hours to conduct a thorough investigation: the Martin sisters will have to reveal a couple of well-kept secrets… A police plot led by a police commissioner with an iron fist in a velvet glove.

5:30 pm – Beausoleil Hall Free entry (limited places)
Organized by the Culture & Heritage Department

Wednesday 12 December: the time dedicated to storytelling 

« BABA YAGA »

In the faraway lands of Russia, the story of Baba Yaga is recounted around the fire… not the story of Santa Claus but the story of Baba Yaga! Who is she? Is she a witch? No! She’s a child-eating spinster living in a small isba, perched on chicken feet!
It is even rumoured that every time she is asked a question, she gets a year older.
Who will fall into the hands of Baba Yaga? Vassilissa or you?

6:30 pm – Beausoleil Hall – Free entry Tale for children from 2 years old
Organized by the Youth and Animation Department

Saturday 15 December: Christmas Cup at Golf Up

Golf Up is expecting you for the Christmas CUP. The opportunity to get together and celebrate the last golf competition of the year together! Young and old, experienced golfers and beginners, come and have fun on the course!

On the agenda, Saturday 15 December:
2pm: Arrival of the players.
2:30 pm: Start of the competition in 9-hole Shot Gun. Game formula: Simple Stableford.
3:30 pm: Return of the players.
4pm: Award ceremony with Santa Claus.
Meanwhile, golf school party will be held.
Entry fees: adults 35€, Golf Up card + 30€, juniors (-18 years old) 15€.

Sunday 16 December: Children’s Christmas and toys fair

During this Christmas season, Grimaud Animations and the Tourism Office are organizing a special afternoon for children. A show, refreshment and the arrival of Santa Claus. Nowadays, the traditional toy market is free and open to everyone (registration at the Tourism Office). Our little munchkins will even be able to enjoy pony rides thanks to the Ranch de la Mène.

2pm – Beausoleil Hall – Free entry
Co-organized by Grimaud Animations and the Tourism Office Information: 04 94 55 43 83

Saturday 22 December: Dancing concert

« Fred et son frère »

With Frédéric and JeanChristophe Gairard.

Accompanied for the occasion by Jérémie Schacre, their friend from the group « Clair de lune trio » (gypsy and electric guitarist) and Stéphane Bularz, a skilled double bass player from the group « Tzwing ».
For its Advent evening, Grimaud Animations invited these four talented performers to offer the audience of the Beausoleil hall a rare musical evening of listening and dancing. A beautiful moment of pleasure for the ears (and feet) to be enjoyed on the penultimate day of Christmas Eve.
A cozy setting, swing atmosphere, champagne and petits fours will available.

Sunday 23 December: Christmas with the great organs

Brice MONTAGNOUX (Organ) Eva VILLEGAS (clarinetist)

For the first time, here are two concerts to celebrate Christmas with the Organ of the Saint-Michel church, the first of its kind, designed by the factor Pascal Quoirin, which has been enriching the city of Grimaud’s heritage since 2015.

The instrument that majestically animates the services celebrated in the church presents all the facets of its registrations during numerous concerts and is at the centre of the scheduling of the Musical Evenings of Grimaud.

At 3 p.m., it is the organist Brice Montagnoux, owner of the Quoirin grand organ of the church of Sanary-sur-Mer and artistic advisor to the City of Saint-Maximin for the scheduling of organ concerts at the basilica, who will enlighten all its sound colours with a programme dedicated to Johann Sebastian Bach, Louis-Claude Daquin and Olivier Messiaen.

Brice Montagnoux will then be joined by clarinetist Eva Villegas for a program that combines the sonorities of the clarinet with those of the organ with works by Camille Saint-Saëns, Claude Debussy, Fernande Decruck and Charles-Marie Widor.

3pm – Saint-Michel Church – Free entry (limited places) Organized by the Tourism Office

Visiting Port Grimaud

Houses in Port Grimaud with beautifully coloured facades

This lakeside city founded in 1966 on a swamp by the architect François Spoerry, is the Venice of Provence of Var. Explore this colourful Mediterranean port, which has canals lined with small « fishermen’s houses » and picturesque alleys.

NEXT DATES:

Wednesday 26 December at 3pm
Friday 28 December at 3pm

In January, the following dates have been scheduled:
Wednesday 2 January at 3pm
Friday 4 January at 3pm
For reservation, please contact the Tourism Office 04 94 55 43 43 83
Go to the main entrance of Port-Grimaud 1 (next to the Petit)
Duration 1h30 – Walking tour
Fees: adults: 5€ / youth (11-17 years old): 2€50. Free for children under 10 years old
A small snack will be offered to children

And like always…

Grimaud’s permanent guidance course

Come and discover one of the most beautiful villages in France while having fun or by challenging yourself individually, in a group or with your family. This orientation space is a network of posts permanently installed with details characteristic of the municipality, and evidenced by beacons.
It is suitable for all types of orientation activities, sports, leisure and tourism.
With the help of a motherboard available free of charge at the Tourism Office, try out one of the 4 thematic routes at your disposal.
Everyone can do it their own way! Then meet us at the Tourism Office and and have a look at your compasses!

Provençal markets

the market square in Port Grimaud

Every Thursday in Grimaud Village (Place de l’Eglise)
Every Thursday & Sunday in Port Grimaud

Flea market

Every Sunday at the Jas des Robert 

Port Grimaud in Autumn

Discover our cultural variety

Culture is certainly promoted all year round in Port Grimaud and not only during the summer when tourists are visiting our little village. Like a magician, who never reveals his tricks, Provençal Venice always has something new to offer.

Grimaud’s Musical Evenings

The autumn-winter season started on Sunday, November 18, with the brilliant entry of « the 1826, great Quartets ». The Psophos performed pieces of classical music in a venue with an exceptional heritage for a concert of an equally impressive quality.

The port has its village

The guided tour of the port is among the most famous, and it takes place every Wednesday of the year. Colourful and enchanting with its picturesque alleys, this Mediterranean port is different from the others because of its canals which border the « fishermen’s houses » . Our lakeside city is brightened every Thursday and Sunday morning by a market where local products and seafood are on display. In short, everything that makes Provence so appealing!

The colourful facades of the houses in Port Grimaud

The tales and history of the village of Grimaud are filled with anecdotes, all of them extremely interesting. The Tourism Office offers you 3 free visits:

Grimaud-chateau

  • Guided tour of the castle once a month, to learn more about its history
  • Discover the chapel of Notre Dame de la Queste, a major place of the Gulf pilgrimage because of its blessing on horses.
  • Many walks to be enjoyed on the Cirkwi site including Grimaud-Port Grimaud, Le Pont des Fées, Le Pierredon, la Calade, la Castellane and le Peyron.

Treat yourself: many restaurants are open all year round

You can enjoy delicious meals all year round in Grimaud! The summer season may have come to an end, but you will still find some very nice places to eat good food:

Make your choice!

  • Le Just’in café, in which the management promises you dishes made with love, with fresh and quality products. Its casual table is packed with homemade burgers and fries, pizzas and salads with handmade desserts.
  • The Santons offer you gastronomic dishes, where the local recipes are well known. This restaurant has been recognized by the Collège Culinaire de France. It is available for private events with a maximum of 50 people.
  • Pizza Léone is open all year round for lovers of quality. You can enjoy pizzas made by a pizzaiolo graduate from the French Pizza School. Which can be eaten at the restaurant or taken away with a variety of sumptuous salads.
  • La Bastide Blanche has a  » contemporary and fusion  » menu with a blend of subtlety and elegance. Its success is based on a concept whereby semi-gastronomy creates a lounge spirit where music is in the spotlight.
  • Le Clem’s is a friendly and warm setting. It is a balance combining all levels of society and a sporting atmosphere. Its menus are also a combination of Provençal and traditional dishes.
  • – L’Ecurie de la Marquise has a range of Niçoise specialities and pizzas which can be taken away or eaten at the restaurant while enjoying a cozy atmosphere with antique furniture. The mood is refreshing and its local dishes are complemented by a vintage cellar.
  • – Le New-Burg offers a selection of burgers inspired by the French style. This steakhouse offers exceptional quality meats, but also fresh homemade fish and a wide range of salads.
  • – Le Jas des Roberts: This is an exceptional site that hosts this restaurant, where traditional and Provençal dishes are served with a breathtaking view of the Grimaud region. Grilled meats, meats and fish are served on request.
  • – Didier’s table is very welcoming and ideal for traditional dishes. It puts a lot of emphasis on products such as truffles and meats from many parts of the world. Fish lovers and vegetarians will certainly be delighted!
  • La Table des Oliviers is open 7/7 days all year round. It has sophisticated and diverse dishes that will delight your taste buds while enjoying an exceptional view of the Gulf. A setting where Provençal charm blends with modernity.
  • Le Terracota guarantees you « Epicurean PleasuresAn absolute Delight ». Its refined and aromatic dishes are inspired by Mediterranean cultures. « A real culinary journey to the land of flavours » as they say!
  • Le Thai Boat, a fast food restaurant which is open every day for lunch and dinner on the go.
  • La Maracana Churrascaria offers a diverse menu. Grilled meats and pizzas are the most popular
  • Le Café Telline which has already featured in several articles on the blog here and there.
  • La Pizzeria Don Peppe, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria whose opening we recounted in these pages.

We would never have enough words to describe all of them to you. We will tell you more about the restaurants below in future articles.

Trattoria Pizzeria St Joseph – Pizza Italia – Le Monroe’s Brasserie – Pizzeria Don Peppe – La Caravelle – La Fontaine – La Spaghetta – Apopino Restaurant – Crêperie-Grill Le Boubou – Marina Lounge Bar and Restaurant – La Tartane – Le Murier.

There are many other places with very good ratings, but they are closed during the off-season.

Whether it is around a beautiful table with your feet in the water or in one of the charming alleys of this medieval village, Port Grimaud offers a wide range of choices. Whether you want to learn about Provençal flavours or explore new horizons, our restaurateurs are here to serve you. Now, all we can do is wish you a « bon appétit »!

Grimaud is keen on facilitating the settling of young farmers

The municipality of Grimaud has launched a consultation process with landowners to facilitate the settling of young farmers. Objective: to restore the cultivable area to its former glory.

On one side, is an agricultural plain of 532 hectares divided into small plots, 11% of which are fallow. On the other hand, are the ambitious young farmers who want to start their own business.

To kill two birds with one stone, the Grimaudoise municipality was able to bring together landowners and project leaders in the Blaquières during the week of November 5, 2018.

The Mayor, Alain Benedetto, accompanied by representatives of the Chamber of Agriculture and SAFER, were expecting a shared awareness of the current neglect of the Grimaud plain during this unprecedented meeting.

THE CURRENT GENERATION

After a reminder of the situation in the agricultural plain, the discussions were held. And the project leaders, a dozen of them in attendance were the most forthcoming in the discussions.

Like Sylvain for example, a farmer from Cogolin: « My goal is to make a living from the vineyard. I currently own 4 hectares.’’ ‘’I currently own 4 hectares. Ideally, I would like to have about 8-10 hectares.’’ Other projects presented included the setting-up of a chicken farm on a one-hectare plot.

Or the case of a young man from Gassin who is currently looking for a 5 hectare plot of land to cultivate vines.

« We can see that these young people are dynamic and have a lot of ideas. Relying on them will ensure that we can look forward to something sustainable for the agricultural future of the plain, » Alain Benedetto emphasized.

THE LANDOWNERS HAVE A MAJOR ROLE TO PLAY

For their part, the landowners in attendance were less vocal. Only two of the fifteen or so present spoke, however, they indicated that they were willing to rent or sell their land. Nonetheless, most of them established contact with the project leaders at the end of the meeting.

« It’s a start, » Alain Benedetto pointed out. Some of them are finding it difficult to let go of their land, without properly keeping it up to standard, while the young people need it as well. »

Because the biggest hurdle that future farmers will have to overcome is still the availability of land:  » Nowadays, the landowners are the ones who have the biggest say. We must trust the newcomers in the sector and give them the opportunity to express themselves, » Arnaud Ferraro, president of the Young Farmers of the Gulf, insisted.

Notably, the lands around the old Traveller’s area, which was abolished in 2017 were targeted: « No one was exploiting them because of their proximity. This must change now. »

Committed to the agricultural and forest land management of the Grimaud plain since 2015, the municipality wants to bring the stakeholders together to create renewed interest in the plain. Whilst everyone has been sensitized and informed, there is still a lot of work to be done to restore this area to its former state of the 1960s: « When all the plots were under cultivation ».

This article was first published in French in our local newspaper Var Matin.

Port Grimaud, useful tips and good ideas

During holidays, housing accounts for the largest part of expenses. But it is important to ensure this does not affect the activities. Good news, Port Grimaud is offering you activities for as little as nothing or even free of charge. To enjoy an idyllic stay, tips are offered to you in abundance and don’t worry, they are suitable for all budgets.

A privileged setting in the heart of the French Riviera

Wherever you look, if there is a place where nature has been able to assert its law, it is right in the heart of the Var. Enjoying an enviable location, halfway between the Massif des Maures and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, Port Grimaud is a delight to behold. Oscillating between the sea and mountainous landscapes, hiking is available for all budgets. A good equipment and you are ready to go on one of the tours available to enthusiasts of all levels while admiring the splendours of the region.

The massif des Maures

Cultural outings and free entertainment available in abundance

The Tourist Office organises activities for everyone so each one of you can benefit from the countless opportunities the region has to offer : from cultural activities to discovery outings or workshops, you will always be able to find free ones. It is a real manna that is being offered to you to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. And of course, you can brazenly relaxing on the sumptuous beaches of our coastline.

– Heritage Discoveries: In addition to the guided tours organised each month by the municipality, you can explore the architectural treasures of Grimaud. This superb medieval village has several tours in store to enchant you. The tours run through the chapel of Saint-Roch and its mill and can be extended to the Pont des Fées. To find out about the schedules of these outings, as well as many other activities, visit the portal of the Grimaud Tourist Office at http://www.grimaud-provence.com/.

Grimaud : chapelle saint-roch

The Saint-Roch chapel

– Exhibitions of all kinds: For several centuries, Provence has been the lair of painters of all nationalities. Several art galleries have chosen Grimaud as their home, with so many photos, sculptures, ceramics as well as jewellery by artists and others. And if it is a little late to participate in the sessions of the Salon des Peintres, Atelier 14 and the Galerie des Arcades remain open all year round.

Exposition dans les rues de Grimaud

– Concerts and theatre: Although the summer season ended in a blaze of glory on Port Grimaud and its city, we should not forget that the 16th Saint-Tropez Autumn Festival is extending the season until November 3rd. On the programme are many artists and musical groups in recitals who, since the beginning of September, have been performing at the Théâtre De La Renaissance – Cinéma. For more information on the concerts in progress, visit the cultural agenda page of the 16th St-Tropez Autumn Festival.

But whether you will be visiting for a day or several weeks, consult our blog to make the best of your holidays in Port Grimaud. The Boutemy real estate agency is committed to regularly publishing the programmes of its port and city.

Our team wishes you an excellent stay, complemented by unforgettable moments.

Port Grimaud, ideal holiday destination for families

If you are planning to spend your holidays with your family, Port Grimaud is a destination that will delight both children and grownups alike. Rightly known as the  » Provencal Venice « , this vibrant lakeside city has countless attractions! This is a reality that we cannot emphasize enough, because everyone, without exception, will find it worthwhile. It is a special place on the French Riviera, where, not far from the jet set of Saint-Tropez, sublime golden sandy beaches are found alongside the famous medieval village of Grimaud.

Activities in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

A magical atmosphere during the Grimaldines festival

They are quite numerous, by the way! Let us remember the famous Grimaldines, a festival where music resounds day and night to the rhythm of the currents. This year they are celebrating their 16th birthday, which is a good reason for a great celebration. An extraordinary and unusual mixture, where great concerts and street shows happily combine. Two major events, with a unique atmosphere, should also be mentioned: the Harley Davidson Euro Festival, a celebration held each year in May and the Sails of Saint-Tropez regattas in October.

Discovering Port Grimaud

We strongly recommend that you use the water coaches to discover the village. You can admire the yachts and sailboats that have come to anchor there. To fully enjoy the Provencal scents, nothing beats a quick tour of the market, where all the Occitan flavours blend together. On the other hand, Port Grimaud is also about taking a step closer to the village, to discover exceptional wild landscapes.

The remnants of Grimaud

castle-Grimaud

The medieval castle of Grimaud

The splendid Riviera is hardly a surprise, so visiting the hilltop village of Grimaud and its medieval castle is better natural. The amphitheatre is used as a pretext to give open-air shows as soon as the summer season arrives. But it is the surroundings that display its great riches, with landscapes reminiscent of the decorations that adorn our nativity scenes during Christmas. Only the figurines and its mill are missing for it to look like we are experiencing one of Daudet’s tales. As part of the  » Heritage Festival « , come and relive the legend and myths of Grimaud!

Water games

And finally the icing on the cake! In addition to everything you will find to do in Port Grimaud, the lakeside town is the ideal place to enjoy for sporting activities. You can enjoy the seaside pleasures offered by the beach, but also water sports. As a result, swimming and diving are combined with water skiing, sailing or surfing to ensure you have fun. From the land to the sea, Grimaud is a docking port in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez where you can settle down. To enjoy these Var pleasures with your feet in the water and with mooring please book without delay as the rentals are in great demand. The Boutemy.net agency will be happy to help you find the perfect solution, so don’t hesitate to come and knock on its door. You will be able to discover all the attractive offers that have been reserved for you and thus make your dream become a reality.

Port Grimaud, the extraordinary challenge of a genius architect

The origins of Port Grimaud

The history of Port Grimaud is magnificent and it is with great pleasure that we will narrate it to you today in these pages.

In 1962, a Mulhousian architect named François Spoerry acquired a marshland in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez that no one wanted, but he had a vision and devoted the rest of his life to it.

This is the land bought by F. Spoerry to build Port Grimaud on it

During holidays with friends in Greece, the young sailor architect had bemoaned the difficulty of mooring his boat near his holiday rental. The dream of a lakeside city then sprang up where each house had its own mooring. This vision was realized in 1966 when the Port Grimaud building permit was granted on June 14.

Port Grimaud, a unique village in Europe

The construction work lasted from 1967 with the emergence of Port Grimaud I until the early 2000s, which marked the completion of Port Grimaud III. Today, the city is divided into 3 districts: Port Grimaud I, Port Grimaud II (also called Port Grimaud Sud) and Port Grimaud III, governed by 3 separate and autonomous trade union associations.

Port Grimaud on the French Riviera

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the 20th century, the village covers 90 hectares and includes 2400 accommodation units for more than 2000 moorings.

Its 7 kilometres of canals influenced its nickname « Venice Provençale ». François Spoerry has indeed made it a point of honour to respect Provençal architecture. Coloured facades, Roman tiles and the use of recycled materials have contributed to give it its original character. It is for this reason that the architecture of the creator of the lakeside city is now described as « soft architecture » because it blends perfectly into its local environment.

We could really believe that the lakeside village facing the sea has been there for centuries because it is so well integrated into the landscape.

Spoerry’s « soft architecture »

The names of the houses in Port-Grimaud are typical of the Provence. They are called fishermen’s houses – don’t get me wrong, they are by no means modest – ostales, borderives, balandrines, hunières and portales.

Coloured provencal houses

If you still don’t know the Portgrimaudois lexicon well enough, don’t worry, Marion Boutemy and Yael at the agency will be delighted to help you get started.
You can also read about the different types of Port Grimaud housing on our blog.

An exceptional quality of life

It was an extraordinary challenge, to the extent that the architect François Spoerry had to buy the land himself and start construction. No one believed in it, but driven by his vision, François Soperry has succeeded and Port Grimaud has gradually come to life. Sea lovers have found every sailor’s dream there: to be able to take their boat whenever they want, even for just one hour. Here, it’s easy since the moorings are close to the houses!

Since then, Port Grimaud has also charmed families in search of relaxation in a preserved environment.

The village life was established thanks to the shopkeepers, residents and its common spaces: captain’s office, church, gardens. Travelling is done mainly by boat, with fully electrified tow barges for the locals.

The coches d'eau to travel the canals in the lakeside city

The coches d’eau to travel the canals in the lakeside city

Port Grimaud has won the hearts of its visitors thanks to its authentic Provencal markets and its ecumenical church of Saint-François d’Assise lit by the magnificent stained glass windows of Vasarely and open.

stained glass windows by Vasarely

The lakeside town and the medieval village of Grimaud are a delight for culture lovers who enjoy the many art galleries in the village and its exceptional musical events including the Grimaldines and the musical evenings of Grimaud.

Finally, the proximity of Saint-Tropez, the mythical villages of the Var as well as the Massif des Maures make it an ideal destination for a perfect holiday.

The regattas in Port Grimaud

The Spi Dauphine Challenge

The SPI Dauphine Challenge took place from 14 to 21 April 2018 at Port Grimaud and Port Fréjus. For its 37th edition, the competition brought once again together the students who have come to compete in the event. No less than 600 of them were present on the starting line for the most popular student event in the South of France. Its reputation goes beyond the sporting world and by distinguishing itself in this endeavour, it offers many opportunities to young people for their professional future.

During the summer of 1981 some students from the Paris Dauphine University, who had not been able to register for the Edhec Cruise Race, came up with the idea to compete in their own regatta. It was as a result of a combination of circumstances that the idea of setting sail for the Mediterranean from which the event was launched five years later and would remain consistent thereafter. To the great surprise of its instigators, the sporting gamble has since taken on increased significance defying all forecasts. Nevertheless, the challenge remains on a human scale, a real adventure born from the osmosis between the organizing team and its participants.

Since then, team spirit has always dominated, just as values such as fair play and mutual support have been forged.

The Sails of Hope / Les Voiles de l’Espoir

Placed under the aegis of the French Round Table, they’ve organizez  »The Sails of Hope » since 2001. The French Riviera had the privilege of being their host country in 2017… but it is on a rotational basis that they are organized in Languedoc Roussillon, Normandy, Poitou-Charentes, Champagne Ardennes, Brittany and Corsica. This competition requires devoting at least 2 years to the preparation, because of the numerous economic, technical and human requirements. It is above all a « wonderful human adventure combining solidarity, conviviality and sharing! « .

It is the world’s largest sailing event around the world for children with cancer and leukemia remission. Sick young children between 8 and 14 years old, from all walks of life: Metropolitan France, overseas and other countries of the world, such as Morocco or Luxembourg.They are the motivating factor of the volunteers involved in large numbers and of course of the organizers. Because of their medical constraints, this is often their very first sea trip.


2017 route

http://www.vde2017.com/

European Championship of SURPRISES 

In September 2017, the Port Grimaud International Yacht Club organized the famous four-man Championship. Once again this year, about thirty boats are expected for this event in the 7.65 meter monotype keelboat category. The regatta is popular in most European countries, especially in France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland. The 2017 trophy was won by the latter, who brought in major reinforcements for the occasion. The Biel sailboat  »SRS Moi…Non Plus », with its five round victories, literally flew over the competition.

It was at the beginning of the 80s that the Yacht Club was established in Port Grimaud, today internationally renowned. Every year it gathers about fifty yachts of all sizes, which have only one idea in mind: to participate in the famous regattas of the Gulf of Saint Tropez. So even if the dates are not yet determined with certainty, we can be pretty sure that this season once again will see rushing competitors ready to battle against the waves.

https://www.golfe-saint-tropez-information.com/fr/animation/sports/grimaud/championnat-d-europe-de-surprises-4643989

A great opportunity to get together with family or friends, in these idyllic locations conducive to escape the confines of everyday life!