La Garde-Freinet
Charming market town located in the centre of the Massif des Maures
A bustling little village that's worth stopping by.
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.
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- History & Culture in Saint Tropez
- Sights & Attractions in Saint Tropez
- Events in Saint Tropez
- Things to do in Saint Tropez
- Cycling in Saint Tropez
- Hiking in Saint Tropez
- Yachts & Sailing in Saint Tropez
- Watersports in Saint Tropez
- Families in Saint Tropez
- Villas in Saint Tropez
- Holidays Rentals in Saint Tropez
- Campsites in Saint Tropez
- How to get to Saint Tropez
- Property For Sale in Saint Tropez
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.
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 Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
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.
Cycling in Saint Tropez
Cycling Routes in Provence
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Aix-en-Provence to Aqueduc de Roquefavour
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
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La Veloroute du Calavon
Following the Calavon river, this 28km long path was previously a railway track and is a great way to explore the hilltop villages around the area.
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Cycling the Ochre Region from Roussillon
This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.
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Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.
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Les Gorges de la Nesque
Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.
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From Isle-Sur-La-Sorgue to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
This ride takes us along the banks of the river Sorgue, crossing picturesque bridges and cycling past tranquil orchards. You’ll visit a number of fascinating little villages and take in some wonderful scenery along the way.
Hiking in Saint Tropez
Walking Routes in Provence
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Troglodyte Hikes & Walks
An interesting site not to be missed whilst in Provence. The wonderful views of the Villecroze caves and impressive scenery will take your breath away.
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The l'Imbut Trail, Gorges du Verdon
Regarded as one of the more difficult trails of the Verdon region, the l'Imbut trail is perfectly manageable for the competent hiker with the use of the fixed cables and ladders.
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GR4
A 5-7 day walk leaving near the coast and making its way up the Verdon Gorge through the heart of the Verdon natural park.
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Toutes Aures Walk
An great easy walk for the days after rain fall to avoid the mud. Passing by the Chapel Toutes Aures, nestled in an olive grove.
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Montagne Sainte Victoire
Regarded as a 'classic' walk and from the summit cross you are rewarded with 360 degree views of the Luberon, Mount Ventoux, the Alps and Cap Canaille.
Yachts & Sailing in Saint Tropez
Watersports in Saint Tropez
Watersports in Provence
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
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
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, Fayence
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 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
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
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.
Families in Saint Tropez
Villas in Saint Tropez
Villas 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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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
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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.
Price: €6,100
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
Price: €21,720
Holidays Rentals in Saint Tropez
Holiday Rentals in Saint Tropez
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Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
Price: €21,720
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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.
Price: €6,100
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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
Campsites in Saint Tropez
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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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
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Events-Cars Taxi, Grigan
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
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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Helicopter Airport Transfers & 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.
Property For Sale in Saint Tropez
Property for Sale in Saint Tropez
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Villa for Sale
Delightful village house ideally located in the heart of Saint Tropez's historic center, close to all shops and restaurants, in a peaceful, intimate lane.
Price: €2,950,000
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Apartment for Sale
Panoramic sea view for this 3 bedroom apartment with orivate garden and 3 parkings
Price: €1,300,000
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Villa for Sale
SOLE AGENT - Stylish Villa in Saint-Tropez – Peaceful, Stylish & Exceptionally Well-Located
Price: €7,590,000
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Apartment for Sale
Elegant Apartment with Terrace in a secure community in Saint-Tropez
Price: €2,595,000
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Villa for Sale
Elegant property located in a private estate, within walking distance of the village
Price: €5,900,000