Now that summer’s upon us, you’re probably ready to stroll on the beach, doze in the sand, and prove that you’re capable of developing tan lines. But let’s be honest: on most days, that’s nothing more than a distant beach fantasy when you’re living in northern Europe. If you’re looking to escape the unpredictable – but usually rainy – weather, why not jet off on a leisurely weekend holiday to the always-sunny Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur?
If you’re ready to make the most of your summer break, here are a few tips for exploring the best spots of the beach paradise that is France’s Saint Tropez.
Looking to travel around southern France? Check out our travel guide to the stunning city of Nice!
Pampelonne Beach
If you’re a beach fanatic, you’ve surely heard of Pampellone, Saint Tropez’s most famous location for basking in the sun. For the past 60+ years, Pampellone Beach has attracted millions of visitors in search of golden sand and crystal-clear water. In fact, this beach accommodates approximately 30,000 people on its best days!
If you’re in the mood for soaking up some much-needed Vitamin D, immersing your whole body in the warm waters of the ocean (and still being able to see your feet!), and reading that book that you’ve been meaning to get to for a while, a day trip to Pampelonne Beach is just what you need. If you get a bit peckish during your visit, you’ll also be able to enjoy a delectable lunch at one of the many outstanding restaurants that line Pampelonne’s beachfront.
Plage des Salins
Located about seven kilometres from Saint-Tropez, Plage des Salins is not only closer to the town centre than Pampelonne Beach, but is also significantly less crowded. This beach serves as a refuge of relaxation to couples who are looking to avoid the potential craziness of bigger beaches, which can get particularly crowded during the summer months.
Tip: There is a free shuttle which departs from Saint-Tropez’s town centre, and takes you directly to Plage des Salins. What could be more convenient?
If you’re travelling with your significant other, a day at Plage des Salins also has plenty of romance in store: with its pristinely white sand, beautiful pine trees, and a murmuring creek close by, walking hand-in-hand on this 600-metre beach is truly the epitome of tranquil romance. To top it all off, Plage des Salins also offers its visitors the ultimate dining experience in its only restaurant, which is named after the beach. After all, who doesn’t want to dip their feet into the water while savouring freshly prepared fish and sipping a chilled glass of wine?
Post-Beach Fun
When you’re ready to head back to your hotel after your beach day, don’t be surprised if you run into a lot of pleasurable distractions in Saint Tropez’s town centre!
If you’re a shopaholic, you’ll find an amazing variety of shops, boutiques, and markets that suit every taste, budget, and impulse.
Along with the usual chic fashion culprits, such as Dolce & Gabbana and Armani, be sure to check out Saint Tropez’s own, family-run sandal brand on Rue Clemenceau. These one-of-a-kind sandals – known as tropézien sandals – are incredibly trendy and never go out of style, even though they’ve been on the market for 90 years already! Unique shopping experience? Check.
If you’re looking to balance your luxurious impulse buys with casual shopping before hitting the sand, look no further than Saint Tropez’s open-air market, which takes up the Place du Lices on most mornings of the week. If you’re ready to sample some local food and wines, you’ll get a thorough taste of Saint Tropez’s delicacies by wandering around the market’s many booths and by having a chat with its friendly vendors. Although sampling the mouth-watering dishes and drinks that the Provencal region offers may not help your “beach bod”, your taste buds will be ecstatic.
How to Get to Saint Tropez
Since Saint Tropez prides itself on being a remote escape from everyday life, it does not have a local airport. However, there’s no need to worry: several airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet offer direct and laughably cheap two-hour flights from London airports to Nice-Côte d’Azur, from where Saint Tropez is reachable by car in about one and a half hours.
Although 90 minutes may sound short, this very reasonable travel time can turn into a gruelling journey if you get stuck in airport queues, or wait around for overcrowded and unreliable public buses. Instead of starting your holiday wishing that you’d booked a private airport transfer, look into Shuttle Direct’s economical, punctual, and door-to-door services before you travel. Whether you’re seeking a private or a shared ride, your hotel is only a quick and convenient trip away with our experienced, local, and friendly drivers.
Where to Stay
Villa Marie Saint Tropez: If you and your spouse are fans of romantic escapades, you’re in the best hands at the Villa Marie Saint Tropez. This five-star hotel offers an enchanting view of Pampelonne’s bay, which is best enjoyed from its outdoor pool, idyllic terrace, or while enjoying a scrumptious catch of the day in its praiseworthy restaurant. With a free shuttle bus to Saint Tropez’s town centre, complimentary WiFi, and en-suite rooms, you’re sure to get everything you wished for – and more – out of your beach holiday at the Villa Marie.
Hotel Les Bouis: This four-star hotel is ideal for beach enthusiasts, given that it’s only a ten-minute walk away from Pamplonne Beach. In addition to its great location, guests are guaranteed to find a meal and drink that suit their preferences at the hotel’s in-house restaurant and bar, and are encouraged to make use of the property’s outdoor pool, private terraces, and free WiFi. If you’re looking for an elegant hotel with a modern ambiance, the Hotel Les Bouis is truly your best bet.
About Shuttle Direct
As a leading transport service in Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct is a top pick for reliable, punctual, and quick airport transfers. When planning your trip to Saint Tropez, you’ll benefit greatly from booking a shared or private ride with Shuttle Direct, whose dependable drivers will help you begin your beach holiday on the right foot.
For a comfortable and relaxing journey (who knew that an airport transfer could ever be described like that?), pre-book your ride on Shuttle Direct’s user-friendly website today.
