Ramatuelle
Stunning medieval hilltop village located right by Pampelonne beach
A village clinging to a hill side, visible from afar, a cluster of houses that are grouped in a dense fortification. Known as a "village perché", it is a striking feature of the Provence landscape. Close to the Mediterranean sea, on the peninsula of St. Tropez, you find two such villages: Ramatuelle and Gassin.
You visit Ramatuelle, not because it's more charming than its neighbour Gassin, but because it also encompasses France's most famous beach, Pampelonne. That stretch of five kilometres where the jet set, and those who want to be close to them, tan, swim, cavort, lunch, disco and what-not, in a happy ambience of sun and fun.
Ramatuelle is a small village that offers fabulous views overlooking the Gulf of Saint Tropez. This exceedingly pretty town has gorgeous narrow streets lined with coloured shutters and vibrant pink bourganvillea trees- and lots of cafeés, boutiques and artisan galleries to while away the hours.
In the 1950's it began to attract actors and artists, who settled in the narrow houses, or visited in the season. Many celebrities since then have fallen in love with the place and settled there, and quite a few tourists have too. Today, its summer is filled with performances in the amphitheatre: there's a Theatre Festival in July and in August it hosts a famous Festival du Jazz, when artists from around the world perform over four days.
If you are seeking peace, tranquillity and a heavenly beach holiday, the village is ideal. It is around 10 kilometres to the south west of Saint Tropez.
Jump to
- History & Culture in Ramatuelle
- Sights & Attractions in Ramatuelle
- Beaches in Ramatuelle
- Dining in Ramatuelle
- Events in Ramatuelle
- Things to do in Ramatuelle
- Cycling in Ramatuelle
- Hiking in Ramatuelle
- Yachts & Sailing in Ramatuelle
- Watersports in Ramatuelle
- Families in Ramatuelle
- Nightlife in Ramatuelle
- Villas in Ramatuelle
- Holidays Rentals in Ramatuelle
- Hotels in Ramatuelle
- Campsites in Ramatuelle
- How to get to Ramatuelle
- Property For Sale in Ramatuelle
History & Culture in Ramatuelle
Its history stretches back to at least the early Middle Ages and it's believed that its name comes from the Arab word Rahmatu'llah, which means divine providence. This links the village to the 8th and 9th century when the Saracens terrorised the region.
In the 16th century the village was destroyed during France's religious wars and rebuilt in the early 1600's. Today, when you walk through Ramatuelle, you will easily get lost in its maze of narrow streets, steep short-cuts, and gentle dead-ends. It's as if this Provence village, after all its history, wants to confuse the visitor, friendly or not.
Sights & Attractions in Ramatuelle
There are several buildings of note in Ramatuelle, although much of the enjoyment of the town is to be found just walking through its narrow streets.
The Church of Notre Dame is a 16th century church built up against the thick city walls, its bell tower was also used to keep lookout for approaching danger.
Also of interest is a tiny, Arabian-style prison built by Napoleon III, with old gates built into the walls.
You will also enjoy the different little galleries.
Beaches in Ramatuelle
Pampelonne beach offers five kilometres of fine white sand, including long stretches of public beach as well as an abundance of glamorous beach clubs.
There are also two nudist beaches and several places to hire watersports equipment, and there's some excellent diving to be had just off the coast.
This is one of the most famous beaches on earth, great for celebrity spotting, watching the immense superyachts or just lying back with a cocktail.
Dining in Ramatuelle
For Michelin star gastronomy, head to the one-starred La Voile restaurant, for modern, refined food. For something more traditional, the Saveurs Sinceres and L'Ecurie du Castellas both serve great Mediterranean cuisine with fresh Provençal produce. Of course, the many beach restaurants at Pampelonne Beach also await you, and nearby Gassin and Saint Tropez both have some truly excellent restaurants.
Events in Ramatuelle
In the summer months the village of Ramatuelle hosts a world-famous jazz festival, where many big names have performed.
Events in Provence
See all Events in Provence-
Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
-
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.
-
Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 Ramatuelle
Take a drive to Cap Camarat and visit the second biggest lighthouse in France, you can also join a lovely coastal walking path to l'Escalet. There are also some great hiking trails around Massif de Maures. Afterwards, quench your thirst and sample some wine at a local vineyard. Or you can head down to nearby Pampelonne Beach to mix with the jet set in the beach clubs and restaurants and watch the yachts sail past.
Cycling in Ramatuelle
Cycling Routes in Provence
See all Cycling Routes in Provence-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 Ramatuelle
Walking Routes in Provence
See all Walking Routes in Provence-
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.
-
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.
-
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
Yachts & Sailing in Ramatuelle
Watersports in Ramatuelle
Watersports in Provence
See all Watersports in Provence-
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.
-
Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
-
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!
-
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.
-
Glisse Paradise Watersports, Saint Laurent du Var
Jet-ski, waterskiing, wakeboard, wakesurf, parachute, canoe and paddleboard, Glisse Paradise have it all!
-
Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
Families in Ramatuelle
Nightlife in Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle comes alive in the summer months with music festivals and buskers plying the tourist trade. But if you want the nightclubs and dancing until dawn, then head down to glittering, glamorous lights of Saint Tropez.
Villas in Ramatuelle
Villas in Ramatuelle
See all Villas in Ramatuelle-
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.
-
Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
-
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
-
Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
Price: €21,720
Holidays Rentals in Ramatuelle
Holiday Rentals in Ramatuelle
See all Holiday Rentals in Ramatuelle-
Panorama Villa, Gassin
Magnificent villa close to the famous town of Saint-Tropez and the beaches of Pampelonne.
Price: €21,720
-
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.
-
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
-
Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
Hotels in Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle is renowned for its luxurious hotels and villas offering magnificent views over the Mediterranean. Most of them are located outside the village, offering privacy and wonderful sea views. La Reserve, just to the south of Ramatuelle, is one of the most exclusive.
At a lower price range you could stay in charming guesthouses that offer romantic and rustic stays in beautiful surroundings.
There is a camp site towards the southern end of Pampelonne beach, and some more on the way towards Cavalaire sur Mer.
Campsites in Ramatuelle
How to get to Ramatuelle
This very picturesque medieval village is perched on the forested hills above Saint Tropez. Bus lines 7703 (30mins) and 7705 (39mins) both run from Saint Tropez; if driving, take the D93 from Saint Tropez.
Transfers for Provence
See all Transfers for Provence-
Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
-
Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
-
ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
-
Events-Cars Taxi, Grigan
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
-
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.
-
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 Ramatuelle
Property for Sale in Ramatuelle
See all Property for Sale in Ramatuelle-
Villa for Sale
Contemporary villa with exceptional views - sea and countryside - near Pampelonne and L’Escalet.
Price: €18,000,000
-
Villa for Sale
Magnificent renovated farm house just a few minutes from Pampelonne beach and Saint-Tropez
Price: €5,490,000