St. Tropez: The French Riviera’s Most Luxurious Destination

Elements of the St. Tropez lifestyle at the French Riviera can be seen across the globe, but there’s only one place where it all started and one place where it can be truly experienced in its full, original expression.

St. Tropez undoubtedly has an irresistible allure that can only be understood once you’ve been there. Sun, sand, parties, relaxation, authenticity, wine, food, and luxury. Each summer, celebrities, socialites, epicureans, and discerning travelers from all over the world flock to St. Tropez in search of a combination of all the above, but what they find is so much more.

From the beaches and parties of Pampelonne and the superyachts moored in the port to the sumptuous villas and the infamous nightlife and shopping, here we explore why St. Tropez continues to be the most glamorous town in the French Riviera and a must-visit destination at least once (better several times) in your life.

Europe’s Capital of Yacht Culture

Available yachts: Contact EliteLyfe’s luxury yacht broker team here to discover which yachts are available for charter in the St. Tropez area.

St. Tropez is famous for its glamorous yacht culture, with the world's elite mooring their luxury vessels in the picturesque harbor and parading their superyachts during the summer months.

Yachting enthusiasts from around the world have fallen in love with the beauty of Cap Taillat. The annual Les Voiles de St. Tropez regatta also attracts sailing enthusiasts from around the globe, showcasing classic and modern sailing yachts and a diverse calendar of vibrant social events. 

If arriving by land, visitors will not be able to resist taking a private yacht charter to explore the sparkling waters of the French Riviera. With a yacht at your disposal, you have the freedom to cruise along the stunning coastline and discover hidden coves, neighboring islands, and pristine beaches inaccessible by foot. 

A private yacht charter not only provides a front-row seat to the vibrant social scene but also allows for secluded relaxation, making it the epitome of a bespoke and unforgettable St. Tropez experience.

Pampelonne Beach Clubs & Restaurants

• Club 55: Legendary beach club with a relaxed yet exclusive atmosphere
• Nikki Beach St. Tropez: Combines beachfront relaxation with vibrant nightlife
• Bagatelle Beach: Elegant beach club with a Mediterranean vibe
• Le G' – Senequier: A waterfront brasserie with a stylish ambiance
• La Vague d'Or: Three Michelin-starred restaurant at La Résidence de la Pinède
• Le Table du Marché: Focus on fresh, local ingredients

St. Tropez stands for a type of lifestyle, and nothing characterizes that lifestyle more than the beaches of Pampelonne and its exclusive clubs. 

Party lovers head to St. Tropez to gather in the clubs all summer long. Iconic establishments like Nikki Beach, Bagatelle Beach, the Caves du Roy, Voile Rouge, and the club of Hotel Byblos St. Tropez are famous for offering a blend of gourmet dining, champagne-soaked parties, and VIP beachside lounging.

Those seeking a more sophisticated and chilled-out experience can bask in the warm Mediterranean rays while sipping on chilled champagne or indulge in a rejuvenating massage by the shoreline. We recommend Nikki Beach, with its state-of-the-art fitness facility, spa, infinity pool, and full range of watersports including snorkeling, windsurfing, waterskiing, yachting, and fishing.

The French Riviera’s Most Exclusive Villa Rentals

• Villa Beauvallon: a collection of four luxurious houses, creating a magical destination for group getaways. Set on 7 hectares and boasts 25 bedrooms and 24 bathrooms, accommodating up to 46 guests across 4 distinct houses. Daily housekeeping is provided. Surrounded by gardens, each house has its own private pool, sea views, and multiple terraces. Sophisticated furnishings appear in soothing neutrals and tasteful pops of color in shared spaces and private bedrooms. 
• Villa Louise: a turn-of-the-century property located a short stroll from the beach and just 10km from the center of town. The villa features a large private pool, jacuzzi, gym, massage room, vast gardens, 5-star hotel amenities, and eleven en-suite bedrooms for up to twenty guests.

Since the 1960s, St. Tropez has been attracting the world’s elite to stay in its iconic establishments such as Hôtel Byblos, Hôtel La Ponche, and Pan Deï Palais. Since then, it has only become more alluring, with additions such as Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, and the recent Cheval Blanc St. Tropez.

However, without a doubt, the most exclusive way to experience St. Tropez is by renting your own luxury villa. St. Tropez boasts an array of opulent villas available for rent, providing utmost privacy, stunning Mediterranean views, private pools, and top-tier amenities.

The Party Hub of Celebs & The World’s Elite

• VIP Room St. Tropez: Iconic nightclub attracting celebrities
• Les Caves du Roy: Lavish and famous nightclub at Hotel Byblos
• Nikki Beach St. Tropez: Beach club with vibrant nightlife

When the sun sets in St. Tropez, the town truly comes alive. The nightlife scene is the stuff of legends, with a refined array of upscale clubs and bars frequented by celebrities and the international jet set. 

The iconic VIP Room, Les Caves du Roy (housed in the Hôtel Byblos), and L'Opéra are just a few of the legendary establishments hosting unforgettable nights. The town's vibrant nightlife also extends to intimate wine bars and chic lounges, like Le Quai, providing a more laid-back yet sophisticated ambiance.

In St. Tropez, the nightlife scene is inseparable from cuisine. Le Club 55, an iconic beachside restaurant on Pampelonne Beach, is renowned for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere. While L'Opera, located in the heart of the town, combines Mediterranean and Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. 

For more of a fine dining experience, La Vague d'Or, the gastronomic restaurant of the Cheval Blanc hotel, holds three Michelin stars and showcases the culinary mastery of Chef Arnaud Donckele. Quirky and artistic, Senequier is a historic café on the port that has been the place for people-watching both day and night since 1930.

Trend-Defining Designer Shopping & Exquisite Art

• Chanel: Located in the heart of St. Tropez
• Dior: Offers high-end fashion in a chic setting
• Louis Vuitton: Iconic luxury brand with a boutique in St. Tropez
• Galerie des Lices: Showcases contemporary art in St. Tropez
• Galerie Sintitulo: Features contemporary and modern art.
• L'Annonciade Museum: Displays works by artists associated with St. Tropez

For the fashion-forward and art connoisseurs, St. Tropez boasts one of the world’s most exclusive collections of luxury boutiques, designer stores, independent artists, and local handicraft shops.

You can spend hours strolling its narrow, colorful streets, exploring Provençal market’s alleys and visiting the iconic Rue Gambetta and Place des Lices, where many renowned fashion houses and local designers showcase their latest creations. 

With the latest pieces from all the top designers, such as Manosh, Louis Vuitton, and Armani, and unique, handmade wares you won’t find anywhere else, you’re sure to come away with your hands full. Take, for instance, Rondini’s ‘Tropéziennes’ sandals, made from the same leather as Hermès and of which only 13,000 pairs leave the workshop each year.

For art lovers, St. Tropez offers a vibrant cultural scene with notable art venues. L'Annonciade Museum showcases works by artists inspired by the region, while Galerie des Lices presents contemporary art in the heart of the town. La Maison des Papillons uniquely combines a butterfly museum with artistic displays, and the White Box Gallery features diverse contemporary artworks.

There’s also a host of independent artists showcasing their work in studios and galleries, such as the sculptures of Gallery Paul Janssen, the illustrations of Eric Garence, and the diverse creations of Stefan Szczesny. 

To start planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to St. Tropez, complete with exclusive transfers, event bookings, and accommodation, contact our luxury travel design team here.

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