A bustling little village that's worth stopping by.
La Garde-Freinet
Charming market town located in the centre of the Massif des Maures
Just 13km north of the Mediterranean sea in the Bay of Saint-Tropez, and 18km south of the Autoroute du Soleil, which takes you to the mondaine pleasures of Antibes, Cannes or Monaco, lies the Provence village of La Garde-Freinet.
At an altitude of 350m, La Garde-Freinet posts itself as a mediator between two worlds. On the one hand it's part of the everyday working life and on the other it flirts with artistic tendencies and extravagance.
Today, La Garde-Freinet is accessible, if you don't mind a curvy, mountainous access road. If you enjoy walks and hikes, or if you prefer boutiques and restaurants, La Garde-Freinet has a lot to offer. It even boasts a jazz café ("Le Lezard") where on Saturday night you can enjoy a good meal and some eclectic music. Last time we tried it, we found ourselves stomping and clapping along to Blue Suede Shoes. Not sure whether "jazz" will stretch that far, but way after midnight who cares, right?
There are some good restaurants in Garde-Freinet, many of them in the Place Veille or the Place du Marche. Enjoy a Provençal meal in one of the terrace restaurants overlooking the beautiful countryside, or head to popular Le Feiulle for a Moroccan meal in a cosy garden setting.
Events in Saint Tropez
As with many towns and villages along the south coast, La Garde-Freinet is no different and hosts its very own town fête.
Events in Saint Tropez
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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 Saint Tropez
La Garde Freinet is a medieval town that runs across a narrow ledge with lovely views across the Maures hill range and the surrounding forests. Narrow streets run between old stone buildings, bubbling fountains and pavement cafés in pretty squares, and there's also the ruins of the old fort. There are chestnut groves in this area and you can buy delicious local chestnut paste and chestnut honey in little boutiques and gift shops in the town.
Until the beginning of the 20th century, La Garde-Freinet found an ample income in the harvest of chestnuts, the sale of cork oak and even the culture of silkworms. Now most of that is in the past. Today, tourism is a major source of income for the village of 1,500 people. This does not mean that the area is swamped with holiday makers every day of the year. In the high season of July and August you might find it difficult to park your car in the village square, but beyond that it's surprisingly accessible and agreeable.
What makes La Garde-Freinet especially proud is its medieval fortress, built on a hilltop, 3km outside the village. For many years it was thought that the Saracens were the builders of the fortress. Now historians believe that it was the indigenous people, perhaps against the Saracens, who secured themselves an impenetrable habitat in the mountains.
Sights & Attractions in Saint Tropez
When it comes to sightseeing, there are the ruins of the chateau, a fort built in the 8th century, some charming fountains and lavoirs to be seen in the village, as well as the 16th century St.Clément church.
Dining in Saint Tropez
Restaurants in Saint Tropez
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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.
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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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La Bastide Saint Antoine Restaurant, Grasse
Michelin-starred Provençal retreat with creative cuisine and panoramic sea views
Michelin-starred La Bastide Saint-Antoine offers a refined retreat near Cannes, where chef Jacques Chibois creates inspired Provençal cuisine. Set in a stunning country house with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, it’s the perfect blend of gastronomy, elegance, and tranquillity.
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Les Terraillers Restaurant, Biot
A Michelin star restaurant in Biot
Located a few meters from the steep streets of the village of Biot, the restaurant is housed in an authentic pottery from the sixteenth century.
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Le Jardin du Mas Restaurant, Biot 
Le Jardin du Mas Restaurant, Biot
A fantastic location at the foot of a medieval village
This restaurant in the village of Biot has a wonderful garden setting with a private pool, fountains and old trees with a magnificent view over the coastline. Provencal-inspired cuisine with a modern twist, the menu is renewed every month.
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Bistrot Gourmand Clovis Restaurant, Tourrettes-sur-Loup 
Bistrot Gourmand Clovis Restaurant, Tourrettes-sur-Loup
Michelin-starred restaurant in the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup
This small gourmet restaurant is located in the heart of a beautiful medieval town. Using organic and local produce, chef Julien Bousseau creates incredible dishes combining traditional French ingredients with exotic touches, picked up during his trips.
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Nightlife in Saint Tropez
Bars & Clubs in Saint Tropez
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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 Saint Tropez
There are plenty of walking trails around the surrounding areas and Garde-Freinet is a great place to stop on your winding way through the Maures.
The long range hiking path GR9 actually runs through the town, while the GR51 'The Balcony of the Côte d'Azur runs 8km from the town. You can go mountain biking and horse riding in this rolling, forested countryside too - a spectacular way to enjoy the area.
With the narrow, cobbled streets and 16th and 17th century houses, La Garde-Freinet is similar to many villages around the area; its fountains and communal wash basins are typically Provençal and the twice-weekly market is a meeting place for local people and visitors alike.
A one hour hike from the village will take you to the medieval fortress, through brush and overgrowth, steep climbs and occasional steps hewn out of the rocks by the original habitants. When you finally arrive at the ruins of the fortress, you can indulge yourself in the amazing views over the Massif des Maures and beyond over the Alpes Maritimes, and south to the Mediterranean sea. You can imagine yourself in the 9th century when the original inhabitants found a safe haven in the mountains, cut an impressive moat in the rocks, found a water source (even in summer it's still filled with water) and waited a century or three before descending to what is now known as La Garde-Freinet.
Things To Do in Saint Tropez
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Plaine des Maures Natural Park 
Plaine des Maures Natural Park
Remarkable Provençal natural site home to the Hermann's tortoise
La Plaine des Maures is the first natural park in the Var department, to the north west of Saint Tropez. It is renowned for it's umbrella pines and cork oak trees, and is rich in fauna and flora.
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Grimaud Karting Loisir, Grimaud
Great karting track close to the popular St Tropez
Together with electronic timing, GKL offer you top equipment and professional support for your karting experience.
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AGS Formule 1 Driving Courses, Gonfaron - Provence
Experience the thrill of Formula 1 driving
AGS FORMULE 1 offers you the opportunity to experience, with one of the school drivers at the wheel, the unique sensation that is taking part in something really special. AGS also offers a range of courses for all levels.
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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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Le Village des Tortues, Carnoules
Nature reserve and rescue centre for tortoises and turtles
Visit tortoises from all around the world in this unique park.
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Blue Green Sainte-Maxime Golf Course, Sainte Maxime
18-hole golf course with views of the sea
This friendly and relaxed golf club boasts fabulous views of the Provencal countryside on one side and the sparkling waters of the Riviera on the other.
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Yachts & Sailing in Saint Tropez
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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 Saint Tropez
Watersports in Saint Tropez
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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.
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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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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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Aventure et Nature Watersport, La Palude sur Verdon
The best way to explore the Verdon Gorge!
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon 
Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
Beautiful lake in the Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
Paddle down the gorge in canoe or a kayak
Explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon by paddling down the river in canoes or kayaks. A fun activity for everyone to explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon and paddle on the beautiful blue water.
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
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Pearl Beach Villa, Gassin
This stunning home, just minutes from the village of Saint-Tropez and the Pampelonne beaches, can accommodate up to 8 guests and features a breathtaking panoramic sea view.
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Valderrama Villa, Gassin
Located in the prestigious private Golf & Country Club estate in Gassin, come and discover this beautiful bastide in a privileged location, at the end of a cul-de-sac in a quiet environment without vis-à-vis.
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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
Hotels in Saint Tropez
Hotels in Saint Tropez
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Villa de Lorgues B&B. Lorgues
Elegant guest house in the market town of Lorgues
This 18th century townhouse has been renovated using traditional materials and beautiful furnishings to produce an elegant guest house with spa facilities in the heart of the medieval market town of Lorgues.
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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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Chateau Mentone, nr Lorgues
Wonderful estate with vineyards & luxury rooms
Based in the Var countryside, Chateau Mentone is a guesthouse with five bedrooms in the chateau, and guest suites and apartments in some of the surrounding buildings ideally suited to families and groups.
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Abbaye de la Celle Hotel, La Celle
Alain Ducasse's delightful country inn & Michelin-starred restaurant
This traditional country inn is run by the Alain Ducasse empire, and offers 10 bedrooms & suites in an 18th century building in the heart of Provence's vineyards.
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La Bastide de Messine B&B, Brignoles
Entirely restored 'bastide' de Provence dating 1850 in beautiful grounds
The Bastide de Messine is an old country house of Provence, entirely restored, sitting in 7.5 acres of countryside with it's own swimming pool and views on the hills of La Celle and the village of Brignoles.
How to get to Saint Tropez
If driving, get off the A8 at Le Cannet des Maures – Le Luc. Take the road D558, direction Saint Tropez. The no.7701 bus runs from Saint Tropez, and the no.7702 runs from Les Arcs.
Transfers for Provence
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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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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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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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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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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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.
Property For Sale in Saint Tropez
Property for Sale in Saint Tropez
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Villa for Sale | STZ250285
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
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Land (Plot) for Sale | STZ250321
Contemporary villa with two building plots
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Villa for Sale | STZ260356
A peaceful villa with unobstructed views of the countryside
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Villa for Sale | STZ250324
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
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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 | stz260423
Stunning renovated villa with sea views, located in a private domain.
