City guide: 24 hours in the Saint-Tropez sun

If you’re already planning your summer getaways, think about adding Saint-Tropez to your list.

Cover photo: Victoire Joncheray

Wake up at La Ponche hotel

In the 21 rooms of this 5-star establishment, you can slip into the rhythm of local life, dine on Mediterranean cuisine and zoom off on a little Piaggio. In the morning, yoga and Pilates classes are organised on the pontoon facing the sea: a lovely way to ease into your day and get some fresh air before traipsing around the town.

Hôtel La Ponche – 5 rue des Remparts, 83990 Saint-Tropez

Stroll on the coastal path

Make the most of the warm weather to explore the “Chemin des Douaniers” (literally: the “trail for customs officers”). Connecting several Saint-Tropez beaches, it offers an exceptional view of the sea and hinterland. Don’t forget to take a baseball cap, beach towel, sunblock and a bottle of cold water, especially if you want to take a little break along the way.

Photo: Valentin Kremer

Lunch at Les Moulins de Ramatuelle

Looking for a peaceful restaurant surrounded by nature? Drive a few kilometres south to the village of Ramatuelle and bingo. Here, regional specialities are served with a twist. For example, panisses (chickpea chips) served with red pepper ketchup or a pissaladière to share. But that’s not all! Between courses, you can stretch your legs at the pétanque pitch and maybe score a few points!

Les Moulins de Ramatuelle – 34 chemin des Moulins, 83350 Ramatuelle

Get a scoop at Barbarac

Save some room for Barbarac’s artisanal sorbets and ice creams. The only hard part is choosing your favourite flavour (chocolate-orange or yuzu anyone?).

Barbarac2 rue Général Allard, 83990 Saint-Tropez

Sip a coffee at Sénéquier

Inaugurated in 1887 (and frequented by anyone who’s anyone ever since), this brasserie has one of the most coveted patios at the port. This is the place to see and be seen, while sipping a coffee. It’s also a great place to sit and plan your day (including all the best foodie spots).

Sénéquier – 29 quai Jean Jaurès, 83990 Saint-Tropez

Stock up at American Vintage

Whether you forgot to put something in your suitcase or want to pick up a little souvenir of your sunny holiday, this AMV store has exactly what you need.

American Vintage 59 rue Général Allard, 83990 Saint-Tropez

Sample a traditional dessert at La Tarte Tropézienne

It’s impossible to visit Saint-Tropez without trying the tart that’s named after it. In its original version, with strawberries or raspberries, in a maxi or mini version … No matter which option you choose, the tarte tropézienne is delicious. And if you’re still hungry after that, try some bugnes!

Several locations citywide

Dine inland at Vista

Not far from the centre of town you’ll find Lily of the Valley, a hotel that seems suspended in time. Expect a relaxed vibe as you dine on the patio with its unblocked view of the bay. On your plate, Provençal food gets star treatment. A perfect way to end your day on a very local note.

Vista, at Lily of the Valley – 51 boulevard Abel Faivre, 83420 La Croix-Valmer

AMV Journal is a space dedicated to encounters, discovery and travel. Every week, explore the musts, portraits and inspirations of American Vintage and its creation studio.