Saint-Raphaël has something to appeal to everyone, influenced as much by the Mediterranean as by the Massif de l'Esterel surrounding it on both sides. While culture lovers stroll through the streets of the old town and visit its many churches, water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at diving or sailing. For those who prefer swimming and relaxing in the sun, you'll be able to spend the days ranking your top 3 favourite beaches.
Serial shoppers can do the rounds of the local markets, and hiking enthusiasts can take a walk along the high cliffside paths to appreciate the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Here are 10 things to do in Saint-Raphaël to ensure you don't miss a thing in this magical destination.
- 1
Enjoy the gentler side of life on its 29 beaches
Bathing and lazing about
- Οικονομική διαμονή
- Ζευγάρια
- Οικογένειες
- Φωτογραφία
It's easy to enjoy the gentler side of life on the 29 beaches of Saint-Raphaël. The coastline stretches out over 36 km, and each beach has its own distinct personality. Bathed by the Mediterranean, some of the beaches are sandy, and others are shingle. They are home to a number of water sports: fishing, sailing, diving or simply paddling along the water's edge.
Our favourites? The beaches of Baumette cove, for its tranquillity, Maubois cove for its shingle and red rocks that contrast beautifully with the turquoise waters and pine trees, Camp-Long with its gentle waters, perfect for children and for exploring the seabed, and the very secluded Fournas Cove.
- 2
Admire the Île d'Or from Cape Dramont
Panoramas and magic
- Περιπέτεια
- Φωτογραφία
Admire the Île d'Or from Cape Dramont (Cap Dramont), one of the most well-known views of Saint-Raphaël. Around 200 metres in front of you stands the unassailable square tower of the Île d'Or, which reputedly inspired 'Hergé's Adventures of Tintin' on the Black Island. As this is a private island, no visitors are allowed; however, observation from afar is more than enough to awaken dreams and poetic musings.
The cape is a protected natural area and, as well as the characteristic rhyolite of the Massif de l'Esterel, it also displays a number of examples of blue rock. The view over the Bay of Agay (Baie d'Agay) and the charming Poussaiï fishing harbour is also well worth the visit.
Χάρτης - 3
Take the Cornisa de Oro
A breathtaking walk
- Περιπέτεια
- Φωτογραφία
The Cornisa de Oro (literally, golden coast road), a magnificent walk along the region's coastline, owes its name to the golden reflections that envelop the rocks along the route. Carved into the Massif de l'Esterel, the road was opened at the beginning of the 1900s by the Touring Club de France and links the seaside resort of Saint-Raphaël to Cannes.
It meanders along the steep cliffs and inclines that plunge directly into the emerald sea, and offers privileged access here and there to secluded little coves. Along the way, try to spot Calanque d'Athénor, a charming little beach on the side of the mountain.
- 4
Visit the Romanesque church and presbytery
A window to the past
- Οικονομική διαμονή
- Ιστορία
- Φωτογραφία
The Romanesque church of Saint-Rafeu, dedicated to the Archangel Raphael, is a historical and architectural treasure cherished by the town. The ancient village that, over the centuries, became the Saint-Raphaël that we know today was originally centred around the religious building. Although its current form dates from the 12th and 13th centuries, it was preceded by other places of worship and displays, in particular, building techniques from the Carolingian era.
Fortified, then flanked by a watchtower and a bell tower, it has a wonderful view across the bay. Today, the presbytery is home to the town's prehistoric museum and a superb collection of amphora, where you can admire some absolutely stunning Carolingian bas-reliefs. An unmissable visit for culture lovers.
Τοποθεσία: Rue de la Vieille Église, 83700 Saint-Raphaël, France
Τηλέφωνο: +33 (0)4 94 19 25 75
Χάρτης - 5
Get back to nature in the Bonaparte Garden
Natural and revitalising
- Οικονομική διαμονή
- Ζευγάρια
- Οικογένειες
- Φωτογραφία
Get back to nature in the Bonaparte Garden (jardin Bonaparte), an unusual English landscape garden. It has been laid out on top of a large car park and is home to palm trees, cacti and watering holes, offering you a lovely moment of coolness. This public park, overlooking the town, stretches out over 20,000 square metres and juts out towards the sea like a botanical ship's bow. Curved wooden canopies cover the terraces, letting the light filter through and giving them an uncluttered and modern feel.
This is the perfect place to have lunch beneath a tree, spend some time reading on a bench, take a lovers' stroll hand in hand or spend some time with the kids in one of the many play areas. A special mention for the view over the old harbour and the bay.
Τοποθεσία: Promenade René Coty, 83700 Saint-Raphaël, France
Ώρες λειτουργίας: Daily from 9 am to 8 pm
Χάρτης - 6
Shopping at the market
A holiday essential
- Φαγητό
- Νυχτερινή ζωή
- Καταναλωτές
Shopping at the market perfectly showcases Provence. In Saint-Raphaël, happiness is tenfold thanks to the different markets held every day of the week, each with its own ambience and characteristics. At Place Victor Hugo, Place de la République and Place Gianetti, you'll find many local specialities from regional producers.
In the old harbour, buy some freshly caught fish and exchange a few words with the fishermen; at Place Lamartine, discover the local crafts (pottery, natural soaps) and a large number of textiles, such as the well-known foutas (delicately woven towels). And in the summer, make the most of the cool evenings by doing some shopping on the Promenade de Lattre de Tassigny.
- 7
Discover the seabed
A diver's paradise
- Περιπέτεια
Discover the seabed by making the most of your trip and taking your first dive. Or, if you're already a diver, come and perfect your skills. The first diving equipment was actually invented here, and it is also where the first diving club was founded – yet another reason to dive in.
The wild coves and protective inlets that form its seafront are filled with blossoming coral – particularly near the island Le Lion de Mer. It is also fascinating to observe Alcyonacea, rock lobsters and nudibranchs in their natural environment. Accompanied by experienced instructors, put on your wetsuit and prepare to be amazed.
- 8
Climb to the top of the San Rafeu Tower
Admire the view
- Οικονομική διαμονή
- Φωτογραφία
Climbing to the top of the San Rafeu Tower, the emblem of Saint-Raphaël, offers a spectacular 360º panoramic view across the town, the Massif de l'Esterel, the Étangs de Villepey (Villepey lakes), the Rocher de Roquebrune (Roquebrune rock) and Saint-Tropez.
So take your courage in both hands and climb the 129 steps to the top where, perched 25 m above sea level, you can get an even better view of the landscape, as well as of the wrought-iron bell tower added in 1881, and the 100 kg bell that rings every hour. At the end of the day, there's nothing more romantic than watching the sun set as it bathes the coastline in a spectacular golden light.
Τοποθεσία: Rue de la Vieille Église, 83700 Saint-Raphaël, France
Τηλέφωνο: +33 (0)4 94 19 25 75
Χάρτης - 9
Play golf
Combine nature and refined pleasure
- Περιπέτεια
- Πολυτέλεια
Play golf and make the most of Saint-Raphaël's famous greens to perfect your swing alongside amateurs and pros from all over. The town has no fewer than 4 golf courses of 9 or 18 holes, and provides a unique experience in a unique setting.
Looking out over the Mediterranean, le Golf de Cap Estérel is a hilly course with a few difficulties, allowing beginners to have a go. The Golf de l'Estérel is in a lush setting, peppered with umbrella pine trees and renowned for its 15th hole, nicknamed 'le Lac des Dames' (the ladies' lake). The Golf Bluegreen Académie de l’Estérel is characterised by its many bunkers and obstacles, while the Golf de Valescure is the ideal place to perfect your game.
- 10
Attend provençal water jousting
Sport and culture
- Οικογένειες
- Ιστορία
- Φωτογραφία
Provençal water jousting is an unmissable event, steeped in folklore, that promises a colourful show. This sporting event saw its beginnings during the Middle Ages and, according to some sources, dates back to ancient Egypt. The regional version sees 2 opponents, each on their own boat, go up against each other. From a platform on the stern of a boat called a 'teinteine', each opponent tries to make the other fall into the water.
This dangerous activity, needing flexibility, strength and balance, can be enjoyed from Saint-Raphaël harbour, among a general sense of euphoria. Water jousting is an ancient tradition that has become a sport for enthusiasts and takes place from May to September. This is a novel way to fill summer days, all while discovering a new side of the local culture.
φωτογραφία από King (Felix Koenig) (CC BY-SA 3.0) τροποποιήθηκε