Beyond Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez might be the name everyone knows: the yachts, the champagne, the buzzing nightlife. It’s not really for me, but the surroundings absolutely are. Here are my favorite places.
Usually, we write about Italy—because of our beautiful holiday homes and our frequent visits. But what few of you may know is that both Ellen and I are big francophiles. Ellen actually lives in Provence, and I visit the area around Saint-Tropez at least once a year with my boyfriend, as his family has a home in La Croix-Valmer.
For me, it’s always deeply relaxing there. Since we go once or twice a year, there’s no pressure to see everything. Unlike my trips to Italy, which are often combined with work—this is pure holiday mode. Days are spent on the beach, reading books, sipping rosé, eating baguettes, fresh fruit and tomatoes, hiking, and wandering through flea markets and old villages.
Saint-Tropez
For me, Saint-Tropez is far too busy—but if you do want to experience it, go early on a market day. If you’re after the classics, stop at Sénéquier for a coffee and a slice of Tarte Tropézienne. Then, before the crowds roll in, slip away for lunch at Les Salins—a beautiful spot where you can eat with your feet in the sand.
Gassin
A charming old village perched on a hill. For a refined lunch or dinner, Bello Visto is a favorite, with views that stretch over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. I also love the little shop at the entrance of the village for its wooden baskets. But my all-time favorite is La Verdoyante: a stunning setting and consistently delicious food.
Ramatuelle
Another lovely old village—slightly more touristy, but still worth it. I adore Café de L’Ormeau, which feels like a timeless meeting point, once for artists and writers, today for anyone who enjoys people-watching over coffee or lunch on the square.
L’Éphémère — Domaine Fondugues-Pradugues
Just outside Ramatuelle, this biodiverse, family-run vineyard has a beautiful seasonal restaurant in the middle of the vineyards and 200m from this they have a charming little wine truck where you can sip rosé, snack on small plates, and play pétanque in the shade of the trees.
Plage Pampelonne
Famous since Brigitte Bardot put it on the map. Le Club 55 is an icon—the set-up, the atmosphere, the history. But it’s also very much about see and be seen. For something more authentic, head to Le Migon: no frills, just sand, sea, and excellent seafood. If you prefer a fancier setting, Chez Camille is a great alternative.
La Croix Valmer
I love Plage de Gigaro and I love Marius à la Plage. But for a proper beach day, we always choose Le Nautic—a bed, the sea right at your feet, and the best lunch.
Grimaud
Another gem of a village. In summer, it hosts the Grimaldines Festival with music and performances filling the streets. For dinner beforehand, I recommend Café de France.
Other favorite things to do
Flea market at Jas des Roberts - And afterwards, head to Auberge de La Môle for a hearty, traditional French meal in a rustic, no-frills setting.
The coastal hike around Cap Lardier - just stunning!
Let me know if you’d like us to share more beyond Italy. We love traveling and hunting for the best spots, and I truly enjoy writing them down. Places we know by heart include Amsterdam, London, Paris, Singapore and Hong Kong. So who knows, maybe more guides will follow. And if you have a request, let me know—I’d be happy to share our favorite addresses.
French butter! 👌🏼 I stayed with a friend at her family home in Les issambres and it was one the most beautiful and relaxing breaks! Also did a hike around Cap Taillat - which is where they filmed Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!
Just got back from the area. Wish I had known all of this beforehand. I guess now I’ll have to go back soon!