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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Dana Facaros

In contrast to the ritzy, designer beach clubs of nearby Saint-Tropez, this rugged but well-maintained 18km coastal walking path offers an escape into pure nature. Signposted in yellow, it follows the wildest and most picturesque shores of the peninsula, protected by local authority the Conservatoire du Littoral.

Starting at the sandy, pine-fringed Gigaro Beach, the trail skirts the wild, protruding Cap Taillat – lapped by bright turquoise waters – and the wild cliffs of Cap Lardier, before ending at the Baie de Pampelonne, where there are sands to lounge on or frequent buses back to Saint-Tropez.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 5-7 hours

Getting there & doing it

To get to Plage de Gigaro from Saint-Tropez without your own vehicle, take a bus to La Croix Valmer, or a taxi. If you have a car, be aware that in summer parking can be very difficult, so set off early. Bring sturdy shoes, a swimsuit, and plenty of water and snacks – there’s nothing along the way. Unfenced cliffs and drops mean this walk is not advisable for young children.

End your walk at Cap 21 Les Murenes, a pleasant seafood restaurant with outdoor tables right on pretty Pampelonne Beach (roughly in the centre) – open for lunch only.

When to do it

Seaside walks are fine year-round, but avoid wet or very windy days when parts of the coastline can be slippery and dangerous.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Hotel Sezz

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[1.6 miles]

A luxurious, architect’s-dream hotel set in oasis-like gardens, but close to the buzz and beach clubs of St Tropez.

Official star rating:

Le Pre de la Mer

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[1.6 miles]

A light-filled former Provencal farmhouse that’s now a luxurious contemporary hotel, with peaceful private terraces and a striking pool. Close to the buzz and glamour of St Tropez, and a short walk to its beaches.

Official star rating:

Hotel Byblos

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[3.8 miles]

Built to impress famous local Brigitte Bardot, this uber-chic, iconic Saint-Tropez spot is the ultimate see-and-be-seen hotel and nightclub.

Official star rating:

Hotel Villa Marie

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[3.8 miles]

A romantic, luxurious hideaway is set in an enchanting Mediterranean garden, overlooking St Tropez’s glorious Pampelonne Bay. 

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

French Riviera

Cote d'Azur, France

Money, glamour and bombshell looks: this beach-trimmed stretch of French coast offers decadent hotels, lounging in beach clubs, fine restaurants and world-class art.

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Walk the Sentier du Littoral

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[0 miles]

Just outside the capital of bling, Saint-Tropez, this 18km coastal path, starting at beautiful Gigaro beach and signposted in yellow, is one of France’s wildest, most beautiful coastal paths.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free | 5-7 hours

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Overview >
Aerial view of long, white-sand beach
Experience

Pampelonne Beach

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[3.5 miles]

The Cote d’Azur’s most famous and atmospheric beach, with public sands and private clubs for every taste. The sea here is a lovely turquoise. Among the beach clubs, 55 is for serious star-spotting, Les Jumeaux is for families, Moorea and Aqua Club are laid-back, and Nikki Beach is for blingy party types.

Best for ages: Any | Free

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Overview >
External facade of a small pink coloured church
Experience

Museum of the Annunciation

Saint-Tropez, Cote d'Azur, France[4.3 miles]

This pretty 16th-century chapel turned gallery has one of France’s top collections of post-Impressionist art. See paintings by Matisse, Derain, Braque, Vlaminck, Bonnard, Utrillo, Roualt and Vuilllard. Open daily, except Tuesday.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

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Overview >