words Joanna Lewis
As the ultimate vacation destination for the world’s wealthiest pleasure-seekers, Saint-Tropez, France, offers a range of activities that align with its luxury lifestyle.
From sumptuous spas to designer boutiques, and from fine dining to day trips to Cannes or nearby islands, there are many glorious ways to spend the days in this sun-drenched French Riviera resort.
Here are some top St Tropez activities along the coast to enjoy from morning to night.
St Tropez activity guide
Morning
After luxuriating on the terrace of your rental luxury villa over a cup of coffee, continue the mellow mood in a yoga session with a private instructor, scheduled at your convenience. Or, go the sporty route with a private tennis lesson at your villa, where the activities you most enjoy can be arranged through dedicated concierge services.
Then, take a dip in the pool to cool down after vigorous exercise, or just to relax and unwind.
To top off the morning, before heading out for social activities, enjoy browsing Saint-Tropez’s colorful outdoor market (Tuesday and Saturday mornings) on the Places de Lices. Shop for delicious and fragrant breads and pastries, fresh produce, sausages, cheeses, and olives, as well as spices and herbs.
Midday
Head to Gigi Beach Club, a new favorite spot for those in the know, just across from Nikki Beach. Enjoy a beverage at Bellini Bar by the pool, or dine on Italian/Mediterranean fare in a private cabana.
Another option for a midday repast is beach-side restaurant Loulou, which describes itself as “an ode to the French Riviera of the 1950s.” Under an elegant, shaded pergola, dine on chef Benoit Dargère’s acclaimed southern Italian cuisine.
Round out your afternoon with a stroll through the historic city centre, including the venerable Old Port, and stop for a drink with a spectacular view of the sea from rooftop bar and lounge Les Toits at the ultra-glamorous Hotel de Paris.
Before heading home, stop by a few of the designer boutiques or pamper yourself with any of a number of spa treatments at Villa Marie or at the Spa by Clarins in the Hotel de Paris.
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, rent Jet Skis in Pampelonne or hop on a boat for an excursion to Cannes for a few hours’ entertainment in the casinos along La Croisette.
For a quieter afternoon on lovely beaches, catch a ferry to the small island of Sainte-Marguerite. Nature lovers will enjoy the serenity of a visit to the Island Porquerolles, known for its white-sand beaches, limestone cliffs, tall pines and oak trees, and abundant flowers. Take a leisurely bike ride along the beach, or pause to enjoy breathtaking views from the old lighthouse on the southern side of the island.
Evening
Historic French restaurant Le Café, dating to 1789, offers authentic Provencal cuisine in a refined, casual atmosphere under a canopy of green in the outdoor pergola. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and live music after a full day of activities in Saint-Tropez.
In the mood for a romantic garden setting? Book a table at L’Italien at the port — it’s the perfect place for fine dining and intimate conversation in a charming atmosphere. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, fine wines, and a selection of spirits as you reminisce about the day’s experiences and plan for tomorrow’s adventures.
Of course, when renting a luxury villa in St Tropez, you can always arrange for a private chef to prepare a fabulous feast to your exact liking.
There can be no question that St Tropez is the ultimate chic locale for enjoying an elegant respite. What other St Tropez activities would you add to our guide?
