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May marks the return of sunny days to the azure blue shores of the Mediterranean. As the first rays of sunshine descend, the Old Port of Saint-Tropez comes back to life, and you have the opportunity to stroll with a coffee in one hand, newspaper in the other, to enjoy the mild spring mornings. The sun reflects off the peaceful surface of the sea right before our eyes, with a golden light that preludes a magnificent day.
The parade of boats has started in the harbour, but around us the streets remain quiet. Only the locals go about their usual business, as tourists from all over the world have not yet stormed the terraces and beaches. In these conditions, one can choose between the multitude of things to do in Saint-Tropez.
THINGS TO DO IN SAINT-TROPEZ IN MAY? OUR TOP 5
Here is our ultimate selection of activities to experience with your loved ones in Saint-Tropez in May:
- Get lost in the old town of Saint-Tropez
- Attend a unique cultural event: the Bravades
- Soak up the treasures of the sea and the history of Saint-Tropez at the Maritime Museum
- Discover the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from the sky
- Explore the peninsula and fall in love with the "Venice of Provence"
TAKE A WALK IN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE OF SAINT-TROPEZ
In May, Saint-Tropez once again becomes a small fishing village. We walk there quietly, far from the crowd that vivifies its streets during the summer season, and we set off to discover its many treasures. Stop off at Place des Lices, in the heart of the village, to try your hand at pétanque or take a tour of the market. Then head to Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, whose ocher stone contrasts elegantly with the azure blue sea that stretches as far as the eye can see. Or if you prefer, you can take a stroll around the port, and sit on the usually crowded terrace of Sénéquier, like a true regular.
When the sun decides to hide, the centre of Saint-Tropez is home to a few museums where you can take refuge. Fans of the 7th art , Louis de Funès, and Brigitte Bardot should see the Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma. As for art lovers, they will have the opportunity to discover the Annonciade Museum, hidden behind the walls of the eponymous chapel.
TAKE PART IN LES BRAVADES DE SAINT-TROPEZ
In the middle of May in Saint-Tropez, there is a cultural event that the locals are particularly attached to. Les Bravades has been celebrated for more than half a millennium the loyalty of the residents of Saint-Tropez to their Patron Saint.
For three days, the Captain of the City, the soldiers and the locals put on their blue and red uniforms, and pay homage to the men-at-arms who defended the port from the attacks of pirates who scoured the seas in the past. Between processions and cannon fire, this unique folk festival attracts a multitude of visitors every year. Les Bravades is also the perfect opportunity to discover Saint-Tropez with kids, in a festive and warm atmosphere.
DIVE INTO THE HISTORY OF SAINT-TROPEZ
Let's dwell a little longer on the maritime past of Saint-Tropez. To discover it, we take the path to the citadel, which proudly watches over the village. Arriving at the top, one is instantly captivated by the exceptional view it offers on the waters and the city. Then, take the time to admire the panorama before passing through the doors of this 14th century monument.
Inside is a unique museum on the maritime history of Saint-Tropez, once the third largest port in the Mediterranean. Between epic history, immersion in the surroundings of Cape Horn, and discovery of the excavation records of a tartane sunk in the bay, we eagerly explore the fascinating history of this city of sailors, through its rooms and exhibitions.
Why not extend the experience with a boat trip between the three Capes? Along the peninsula, you pass in front of Cap Camarat, Taillat and Lardier. The brave can even swim in the crystal clear water which is very refreshing at this time of year!
DISCOVER THE PENINSULA, SEEN FROM THE SKY
After the sea, we turn to the sky. Discover the Gulf of Saint-Tropez like you've never seen it before, with your head in the clouds. Have lunch at Club 55, a mythical address on Pampelonne beach, then embark with your loved ones on a thrilling activity. Directly from the sand, we board a motorboat, then put on a harness and a life jacket before taking off into the air.
Pulled by the boat on a parasail, you'll rise 100 meters above the sea. It's a fun way to see the peninsula and enjoy the magnificent spring days of May. The descent ends with you landing directly in the water, so don't forget your bathing suit!
GET LOST IN the vencie of PROVENce: PORT GRIMAUD
The month of May is also an opportunity to visit the surroundings of Saint-Tropez, without risking being trapped in traffic jams. Get behind the wheel of a colourful Méhari, with a resolutely vintage look, towards Port Grimaud. Located just 20 minutes from Saint-Tropez, this lakeside city resembles Italy, and there's no wonder as to why it is nicknamed "the Venice of Provence".
To visit Port-Grimaud, you have to leave the car in the car park and walk through the beautiful alleys on foot. The city, which has been classified as an "Architecture contemporaine remarquable" (buildings that are less than 100 years old whose design is of significant architectural but which are not classified or listed as historical monuments) since 2018, can also be visited by boat. Along the canals, we discover magnificent bridges and adorable traditional facades decorated with trompe l'oeil, columns and statues. In this unusual little Provençal village, land and sea intertwine to create a true paradise...
For all you need to know about Saint Tropez, explore Le Collectionist's guide.
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