Saint-Tropez, a name synonymous with luxury, glamour, and the stunning French Riviera. But Where Is San Tropez exactly, and what are the best places to stay to experience this iconic destination to its fullest? While staying directly in Saint-Tropez has its obvious perks, the surrounding areas offer diverse advantages, from tranquil escapes to convenient alternatives. Let’s explore the prime locations in and around Saint-Tropez to help you pinpoint your perfect Riviera getaway.
Saint-Maxime: Villa Tranquility Just a Short Drive Away
Saint-Maxime presents an attractive option with its wonderful villa selections and relative proximity to Saint-Tropez. Located just a 20-minute drive away (under ideal traffic conditions), it offers a quieter base while still allowing easy access to the famed Saint-Tropez attractions. However, it’s crucial to consider the summer traffic. If your primary focus is immersing yourself in Saint-Tropez’s vibrant nightlife and daily adventures, the commute from Saint-Maxime might become time-consuming. Saint-Maxime is ideal if you appreciate peaceful surroundings and plan only occasional visits to Saint-Tropez.
Gassin: Breathtaking Views and Village Charm Near Saint-Tropez
Neighboring Saint-Tropez, Gassin is perched in an elevated position, offering stunning sea views and a charming village atmosphere. Choosing Gassin means you’re still incredibly close to the action. Villa rentals are plentiful, providing privacy and space, or you can opt for one of the select lovely hotels. Accessing Saint-Tropez proper from Gassin requires a short drive or utilizing hotel shuttle services. For those preferring a hotel experience in Gassin, two standout recommendations are:
Althoff Villa Belrose
This pricey but exquisite 5-star hotel is renowned for its gorgeous grounds and panoramic views. Althoff Villa Belrose promises a luxurious and serene retreat with easy access to Saint-Tropez.
Kube Hotel
Kube Hotel offers a more contemporary vibe while still maintaining a high standard of comfort and style. Less expensive than Belrose, it boasts modern design, spacious grounds, and remains a sophisticated choice for your stay near Saint-Tropez.
Ramatuelle: Beach Club Hotspot and Scenic Drives to Saint-Tropez
Ramatuelle emerges as a top recommendation, particularly if beach clubs are central to your Saint-Tropez experience. Booking a villa, especially in the Boulevard de Patch area, positions you perfectly for enjoying the renowned beach clubs located in Ramatuelle. The drive to Saint-Tropez itself is a brief and picturesque ten-minute journey, occasionally offering a glimpse into the region’s rural charm with a tractor sighting. For an opulent experience, consider:
La Réserve Ramatuelle Hotel, Spa & Villas
This exclusive 5-star resort is the epitome of luxury, boasting breathtaking views and exceptional amenities. It features a 2 Michelin star restaurant and its own “bohemian” beach club, La Réserve à la Plage, a short drive away, ensuring a lavish and seamless Saint-Tropez experience.
Saint-Tropez Proper: Immerse Yourself in the Heart of the Action
Staying in Saint-Tropez itself places you directly in the epicenter of its famed energy and nightlife. While villa rentals are available, they tend to be pricier and potentially harder to find with private pools. However, Saint-Tropez compensates with a plethora of hotel options. The undeniable advantage of staying in town is the unparalleled proximity to everything Saint-Tropez offers, especially its legendary nightlife. Beaches are a short drive away, a minor trade-off for the convenience of being in the heart of it all. Consider these iconic hotels within Saint-Tropez:
Hotel Byblos
Hotel Byblos is more than just a luxurious and chic hotel; it’s a Saint-Tropez institution. Offering exceptional restaurants, stunning sunset views, and a perpetually chic atmosphere, Byblos puts you at the center of the Saint-Tropez scene. The legendary Les Caves du Roy nightclub is located directly beneath the hotel.
Cheval Blanc
Part of the esteemed LVMH collection, Cheval Blanc Saint-Tropez embodies excellence in every detail. This intimate 33-room hotel boasts a private beach and the three-Michelin-starred restaurant La Vague d’Or, solidifying its status as a premier destination for discerning travelers. Its location at the entrance of Saint-Tropez proper provides both exclusivity and accessibility.
Airelles Saint-Tropez, Château de la Messardière
The beautifully remodeled Château de La Messardière offers a stunning and family-friendly retreat. With three restaurants and a private beach club (accessible via Rolls Royce in a separate location), it combines historical elegance with modern luxury, providing a memorable Saint-Tropez experience.
La Croix Valmer: Serene Wellness Escape Just Moments from Saint-Tropez
For those seeking respite from the sometimes intense energy of Saint-Tropez while remaining close to the allure, La Croix Valmer presents an appealing option. Consider the new Philippe Starck-designed Lilly of the Valley hotel. This 44-room hotel prioritizes wellness and seamlessly integrates into the natural landscape, yet it’s only a mere 3-minute drive from Saint-Tropez. Imagine panoramic Mediterranean views, unspoiled scenery, a state-of-the-art spa, and the playfully luxurious design of Philippe Starck – La Croix Valmer offers a sophisticated and tranquil counterpoint to the buzz of Saint-Tropez.
While these hotels represent the pinnacle of luxury, renting a villa, particularly with a group, remains a fantastic option for a more personalized and often more economical Saint-Tropez experience. Even if you choose a villa, consider experiencing the restaurants and spas at these hotels to savor the full flavor of Saint-Tropez luxury.
