In summer there is no better place to enjoy the lush flowers of the bougainvillea, plumbago or oleander than in the pretty village of Grimaud. Close to the Mediterranean sea on the first hilltop before the Massif des Maures, Grimaud sits there with a cocky attitude that says: we've been here for ages and that's the way it's going to be for centuries to come.
Grimaud, Golfe de Saint Tropez
Hilltop village which has maintained its medieval character
Saint-Tropez may have won the celebrity contest and claimed the name of the Gulf, but Grimaud wins the fame for prettier village. The word "pretty" comes to mind constantly when you walk the cobble-stoned streets and alleys. Meticulously swept and scrubbed each morning by the workers of the commune, they lead you up and down, through archways and around sharp corners to a new alley or surprise you with a fountain on a private square.
In the narrow streets you find many restaurants, boutiques, and galleries that display local artists. Before you allow yourself to be drawn into the local shops or galleries, pay a visit to the Church of St. Michel, a wonder from the 11th century, Romanesque without a Gothic addition. Spartan, but pure. Sit down in one of the pews and let you imagination go back centuries ago.
The prettiness of Grimaud comes at a price. Or I should say, the price of the village contributes to its prettiness. Grimaud is one of the richest villages of France. In part, because the village houses are bought up by foreigners and restored to perfection. In the surrounding area, villas dot the landscape, most of them owned by outsiders. The tax revenue for secondary homes is substantial. When you see the daily watering of flowers, the scrubbing of the streets, you know that the village budget is ample. But the main revenue for Grimaud comes from its hugely successful satellite village on the water, Port-Grimaud.
Along with a couple of cafe's and restaurants, you'll find a local butcher, baker and fruit 'n' veg shop. In the centre you'll find a boules pitch which you try yourself or watch others from one of the benches that line the square. There are two or three galleries/gift shops, but most of your time here should be spent wandering the little cobbled back streets that hide a wealth of charming, flower-covered houses.
Events in Grimaud
With craft fairs and village fetes you will not be short of things to keep you entertained in Grimaud or around the Port area. Make sure you check our events calendar so that you don't miss out.
Events in Grimaud
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Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Grimaud
Grimaud is a fine example of the medieval perched village, and is towered over by the ruins of the 11th century Grimaud castle. The Grimaldi family (those of Monaco fame) were the seigneurs of the castle and gave their name to the village. The castle has always been so dominant in the region with its vast view over the sea, that the gulf below was known as the Gulf of Grimaud until the late 19th century. Now the waters are know as the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
This village has been extremely well restored, with warm stone and Provencal-painted buildings, vaulted passageways and fountains in pretty squares. It's quite a sleepy place with a traditional feel, and in the centre you'll find a boules pitch where you can have a game or just watch the locals play from one of the benches that line the square. If heading to Port Grimaud, you'll discover a modern town that has been designed to look like an old Provencal town built on canal waterways, with pastel-coloured buildings sitting by the pretty port. Despite only having been designed and built in 1998, the architect has succeeded in making this village look and feel quite authentic - and a really rather pleasant place to be.
Sights & Attractions in Grimaud
Follow the steps up to the ruined 11th century castle, 'Chateau de Grimaud', which was destroyed by Richelieu during the 17th century Wars of Religion. There are commanding views of the countryside and coast from up here. Back in the village the 12th century Romanesque Saint-Michel is worth a look, as well as the 15th century Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs. Just outside the village is an old flour mill with a beautiful restored windmill, or you can head further afield to the ruins of the aqueduct at Pont de Fées. You can also take a walking tour of the village, pick up a pamphlet at the tourist office.
Sights in Grimaud
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Train Touristique du Centre-Var
Discover the countryside of Provence on board the tourist train from Central Var
Discover the rhythm of the central Var, situated between the Verdon and the Sainte-Victoire (painted by Cezanne) in the north and the beaches of the coast in the south, this is a truly beautiful region.
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Musee de Faykod (De Faykod Museum), Aups
An outdoor exhibition of sculptures in a natural setting
Some 50 white marble sculptures by Maria de Faykod, renowned sculptor with numerous existing works. She had the original idea to open a garden which exhibit some of her work to the public.
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Commanderie de Peyrassol, Flassans sur Issole
Vineyards with modern art sculptures around the grounds
Acquired in 2001 the Commanderie de Peyrassol, an old Knights Templar staging post, is now one of the outstanding vineyards of Provence. Its reds, whites and rosés are to be found in the finest dining establishments in France and throughout the world.
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Chateau Entrecasteaux, Entrecasteaux
Imposing restored castle in the tiny village of Entrecasteaux
The 17th century castle was first restored by Scottish artist Ian McGarvie-Munn in the 1970's. It's current owner, Alain Gayral has redecorated the castle with genuine antique furniture, paintings and tapestries.
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Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Graces, Cotignac
A small hilltop chapel & sanctuary on the outskirts of Cotignac
This chapel was originally built after a local woodsman saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary in the clouds above the site in 1519. The first stone for the building was laid a month after the vision.
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Les Grottes de Villecroze, Villecroze
Network of caves with an interesting historical & geologic story
These caves were formed some 700,000 years at the end of the last ice age. They are the the result of a slow calcification of plants and mosses in a huge waterfall that covered the whole of the current cliff.
Dining in Grimaud
Restaurants & Dining in Grimaud
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Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour 
Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour
Ideal for truffle lovers who are looking for a gourmet experience
This Michelin starred restaurant is situated on the outskirts of Tourtour and specialise in truffle dishes.
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Chez Bruno Restaurant
Elegant Michelin star restaurant, a heaven for those who love truffles
This charming restaurant is located around 30 minutes from Frejus and the French Riviera and is a must visit for lovers of truffles and gastronomic French cuisine.
Nightlife in Grimaud
Bars & Clubs in Grimaud
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Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Scat Nightclub 
Le Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar 
Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
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Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue 
Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
Popular riverside spot for a drink and a bite to eat
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
Wine and champagne bar with a terrace
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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La Cave des Pas Sages 
La Cave des Pas Sages
Popular wine bar with live music, 15 mins form the Palais des Papes
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
Things to do in Grimaud
Situated on the edge of the Massif des Maures, Grimaud is in a fantastic spot for outdoor pursuits. The Maures have many hiking and mountain-biking trails which pass by Grimaud, including the long-range hiking trail GR51.
From Grimaud villlage you can also take a short hike to the beautiful ruins of the old aqueduct at Pont de Fees.
On summer nights, one of the best activities of the area is to head up to the ruins of the castle, where one section has been transformed into an outdoor theatre with a program of events, including a world music festival 'Les Grimaldines' in July.
Down on the coast, Port Grimaud is near the end of the GR9 hiking trail or you can take a diving excursion to explore the coast underwater. Why not rent a boat for the day and head out on the Golfe de Saint Tropez, stopping at sandy beaches and quiet coves along the way.
Things To Do in Grimaud
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
A really family orientated waterpark with slides & a flying boat
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Course, Tourrettes
18 hole golf course, open all year round
This beautiful golf resort offers two courses, each with 18 holes, set amongst pine and oak trees.
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Wakeboarding cable park where you can learn the ropes in Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Centre Equestre de Carces, Carces
Lessons and trekking through vineyards & woodlands
Centre Equestre de Carces caters for all abilities of riders and provides lessons, trekking, livery and competitions.
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Barbaroux Golf Course, Brignoles
Highly regarded Championship course
Created by US architect Pete & PB Dye, Barbaroux is a favourite course in the region and has been voted in the top 50 courses by Golf World European.
Yachts & Sailing in Grimaud
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Baby Magic Superyacht - 23m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Baby Magic is a beautiful 23 metre Aikon yacht for charter in France. She was first constructed in 2006 by the renowned Italian shipyard Aikon Yachts. Then in 2018 she underwent an extensive refit, including a new painted hull. Thanks to said refit, she is in great condition and certainly has a quality design. Baby Magic is based in Frejus, making her the ideal choice for cruising around the sunny South of France and the West Mediterranean waters.
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Watersports in Grimaud
Watersports in Grimaud
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Lac de Saint Cassien Watersports 
Lac de Saint Cassien Watersports
Natural lake for boating, canoeing & sailboard rental
A lovely natural lake surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Var. The lake is perfect for a pedaloe trip rather than an adrenaline filled water sport, but it means it is perfect for families!
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Wakeboarding cable park where you can learn the ropes in Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
Providing all watersports in the beautiful Pampelonne bay
Sun Force is located on the famous Pampelonne beach. Its owner, Pierre Tourneq, has been running this business for over 30 years, surrounded by a fully qualified team.
Holiday Rentals in Grimaud
Holiday Rentals in Grimaud
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La Colline Villa, Gordes
Charming house exposed on a beautifully wooded ground with stunning views, for rent for 10 people in the heart of the Luberon.
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La Belle Etoile Villa, Saignon
Charming holiday house entirely renovated, approximately 100 sqm, with heated pool in a dominant position on a plot of 3000 sqm, near the village of Saignon, offering splendid views of the Monts de Vaucluse and the Mont Ventoux.
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La Cavalière Villa, Bonnieux
Former 17th century farmhouse in Bonnieux, fully restored by a renowned architect.
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La Bastide Des Merveilles Villa, Menerbes
Discover this luxury rental for an ideal holiday in Provence, in the charming village of Ménerbes.
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La Colline Villa, Gordes
Magnificent holiday home for 8 people to rent in the beautiful village of Gordes, in the heart of the Luberon.
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Luberon Le Mas Wisteria Villa, Bonnieux
Mas Wisteria is located 2.5km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
Hotels in Grimaud
As Grimaud is a slightly less expensive alternative to its neighbour St Tropez, it's a popular place to be based. There are a couple of very nice local boutique hotels in or near the village, plus a good selection of B&B's. Further accommodation options can be found Saint Tropez itself.
Hotels in Grimaud
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
Charming B&B in the Luberon region
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
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Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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Chateau de Berne Hotel
Luxury rural hotel with its own vineyard and an excellent restaurant
Set deep in the lush Var region of Provence, this country house hotel is set within a 550 hectare vineyard. So if food and wine are high on your agenda, then you may well want to consider a stay in the this charming Provencal hotel.
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Villa Josephine B&B
Stylish & romantic country guest-house in Provence
Villa Josephine is located in the middle of the Var region of Provence on the outskirts of the market town of Lorgues.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
Charming Provençal retreat with luxury suites, panoramic terrace, and Michelin-starred dining
La Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
How to get to Grimaud
Port Grimaud, 5km away on the coast, is a modern town designed in the old Provencal style, with a bustling superyacht marina. To get to the old village by public transport, you can take the train to Saint-Raphael, then hop on the bus to Grimaud St-Pons where you can then change for the line 7702 to Grimaud. Alternatively, in the summer a little tourist train (complete with commentary) runs from Port Grimaud up to the village.
Transfers for Provence
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Property For Sale in Grimaud
Property for Sale in Grimaud
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Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
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Villa for Sale | VAL250082
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
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Villa for Sale | STZ250324
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
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Villa for Sale | val260153
This contemporary property, inspired by neo-Provençal architecture, offers approximately 300 sqm of living space and is set within a beautifully landscaped 3,300 sqm garden, providing a private living environment.
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Villa for Sale | stz260423
Stunning renovated villa with sea views, located in a private domain.
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Villa for Sale | VAL240008
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
