WHAT TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME

LOCAL ACTIVITES & REGIONAL HALF / FULL DAY TRIPS

EXPLORE SAINT RAPHAEL & FREJUS

MIX & MATCH LOCAL ACTIVITES

We have put together a short list of favourite activities you can do in your free time in Saint Raphaël and Frejus (5 min drive from the villa). Both towns have electric bikes you can hire or or you can easily explore on foot. The list below is designed to be mixed and matched.

For example:

  • Secret costal walk - lunch at a seaside restaurant - shopping on Rue Felix Martin.

  • Visit the local produce market and boulangerie - cook lunch at the villa - relax by the pool - massage at the villa before dinner.

  • Walk through the old town - coffee and lunch in town - visit the Basilica and Archaeological Museum - sunset dinner at the beach

Our experienced hosts will be available in the mornings and evenings to help you plan your free days.

Taste the local French specialities in boulangeries, cafés and restaurants

  • Join the locals for a taste of the Mediterranean specialities at the multiple boulangeries, cafés and restaurants in town and down the coastline towards Boulouris and Fréjus.

    Once you sign up to the retreat, we’ll send you a private list of recommendations via Google Maps so you can download to see all our favourite dining spots.

Discover the beauty of the coastline through a secret path 

  • The coastline is well known for its famous coastal path following the former customs path, stretching from Port Santa Lucia to Agay. As you walk along the trail, you'll discover the beauty of this coast with its steep coves and fine sandy beaches and its hidden little gems to find seafood and more.

Delve into the city’s markets to find fresh produce 

  • Take a walk in the city center and walk through the local markets where they sell flowers and fresh products every morning from 7 am to 1 pm in two locations: Place Victor Hugo and Place République.

Take a stroll in the modern Bonaparte Gardens overhanging the bay 

  • After a brief ascent up the winding alleys full of history, taken many times over the past centuries, this medieval city perched between Nice and Monaco invites you to discover it hidden treasures. Within the medieval walls, Eze has kept all the charm and the romanticism of the picturesque villages of the South of France.

    You can stroll around the exotic garden, built in the ruins of the castle, culminating at 1 407 ft, the view is unforgettable and unique on the French Riviera. Many hiking trails connect the three levels of the town between the coast, the village and the upper corniche you will discover small artisan shops, galleries and excellent restaurants along the way.

Shopping down the little streets on Rue Felix Martin

  • Take to the streets of the Rue Felix Martin to pick up a reminder of your French trip or just browse at the beautiful displays in the shop windows. You can find everything here from designer women’s clothing, to jewellery and fantastic homeware. Ideal if you want to escape the midday sun, or to simply soak up the atmosphere.

Dive into Saint Raphaël’s historical heart 

  • Today Saint Raphael is one of the most popular seaside resorts on the Var coastline but its historical roots can be seen in the area known as the Old Town.

    A few narrow streets remain which used to be called the ‘neighbourhood of the village’, housing local farmers. There’s still a daily market (not Mondays) which sells local produce.

    Take a wander around the streets here and you’ll soon come across the “Promenade des Bains”: Built between 1880 and 1882 it’s said to mark the beginning of tourism in Saint-Raphaël.

Unwind by the pool, enjoy the jacuzzi & relaxation areas around the villa

  • You can relax in the villa’s large swimming pool with a flowing water fountain, a heated jacuzzi, and sunbeds and sofas are completed by an outdoor kitchen to socialise and read outside.

    An indoor kitchen with an ‘al fresco dining area, coffee, teas, juices and snacks are available all day round.

    Inside the villa, is an indoor lounge with sofas, and armchairs completed with a dining area. The villa has been designed with luxury furnishing for your ultimate enjoyment.

Visit the Basilica and Archaeological Museum

  • No visit to Saint Raphael is complete without a trip to two of its biggest attractions. The 19th century pink sandstone Notre Dame Basilica was built as a reaction to an increasing population. It’s a truly imposing building right in the centre of town. If you look closely you’ll see a representation of the archangel Raphaël, whose image can be found in the coat of arms for the city.

    Afterwards head to the Archaeological Museum which is housed in the old presbytery of San Rafeù Church. It’s dedicated to underwater archeology so you’ll find remains and treasures from the sea, including some spectacular Roman remains.

Book a massage, private yoga or personal training session at the villa

  • You won’t have to venture too far from the villa if you want to be pampered. We can book you a luxurious massage or facial to have at the property. We also offer private restorative yoga classes, but if you feel more energetic, we can arrange a personal training session too.

PLACES TO EXPLORE IN THE REGION

HALF DAY & FULL DAY EXCURSIONS

Our villa is perfectly located in the very heart of the Var region, with charming villages close by, beautiful natural surroundings and fascinating history.

Many must-see tourist sites can be experienced during your retreat on the Cote d’Azur in Saint Raphaël. Whether you prefer a lazy Sunday or a nautical day out, you will always find what you are looking for in the Var region.

Our experienced hosts will help you organise perfect day trips during your stay - many places are just 30 minutes by car, train or boat. Whether it’s with a group, your friend, family or on your own! 

Take a walk in the Esterel Mountains and then visit the bay of Agay

  • From the Maures Massif and its huge forests of oaks and chestnuts, then on the way up to Fréjus, the red rocks of the Esterel offer you a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. The Esterel Massif covers 32,000 hectares. It is the perfect hiking path, the highest point culminating with Mont Vinaigre at 614 metres. Along the way, you can stop by Lac de l'Avellant for a refreshing pit stop.

    Sheltered by the Cap Dramont on one side and the headland of the Baumette on the other side, Agay Harbour is a gateway to the Estérel. Its positioning makes it favoured among sailors and in fact, Agay means “favourable” in Greek. There you can also enjoy three sandy beaches, as well as the summit of the Rastel with its red rock formation overlooking the bay offers a splendid view.

    • Distance: 30 min drive

    • Trip Duration: 3-6 hours depending on the hike you choose

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a personal guide.

    • There are more than 26 hikes in the Esterel Mountains.

    • Many hikes are beginners but there are intermediate and advanced trails.

    • We recommend you order a picnic lunch box from the villa the day before.

    • This trip is included in the Yoga & Hiking Retreat

Visit the town of Sainte-Maxime and take a boat trip to Saint-Tropez

  • Departing from the Old Port of Saint Raphael and within an hour crossing, you can be in the most famous village of the Cote d’Azur: Saint Tropez! You’ll be able to discover ‘Provencal’ markets on Tuesday and Saturday morning, discover the citadel, the old town and the port of this typical village in the south of France. Its neighbouring little sister Sainte Maxime is also accessible by boat, as well as Sainte-Marguerite island, Porquerolles island and the Esterel coves.

    • Distance: Saint Maxine is a 30 min drive and Saint Tropez is a 15 min boat road from Saint Maxine.

    • Trip Duration: 4-6 hours depending on how much time you want to spend at the beach and / or exploring Saint Tropez.

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a personal guide and / or transport.

    • Saint Maxine has less tourists and is known as ‘Saint Tropez’s younger sister.

    • You can have lunch at a restaurant or you can order a picnic lunch box from the villa.

Visit the Verdon Gorges, the largest canyon in Europe

  • In the heart of the Verdon Regional Natural Park, this enormous canyon forms a huge gash. Its exceptional depth (up to 700m!) and geographical situation, with both Alpine and Mediterranean climatic influences, have created the perfect conditions for a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, and are also perfect for a large variety of activities.

    The canyon can generally be explored by canoe or pedalo, or on foot. It can also be admired from the road by taking the sublime cliff road, which offers stunning viewpoints, such as the Cavaliers cliffs or even the Balcons de la Mescla.

    • Distance: 90 min - 2hr drive.

    • Trip Duration: 6-8 hours

    • Europe’s largest Canyon

    • Considered as France’s must see natural wonder

    • Great for outdoor activities: wild swimming, canoeing, hiking, picnics etc.

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a personal guide and / or transport.

    • You can preorder picnic lunch boxes from the villa.

Experience the breathtaking views of Eze village

  • After a brief ascent up the winding alleys full of history, taken many times over the past centuries, this medieval city perched between Nice and Monaco invites you to discover it hidden treasures. Within the medieval walls, Eze has kept all the charm and the romanticism of the picturesque villages of the South of France.

    You can stroll around the exotic garden, built in the ruins of the castle, culminating at 1 407 ft, the view is unforgettable and unique on the French Riviera. Many hiking trails connect the three levels of the town between the coast, the village and the upper corniche you will discover small artisan shops, galleries and excellent restaurants along the way.

    • Distance: 90 min - 2hr drive.

    • Trip Duration: 5-6 hours

    • Small medieval town perfectly located on a hill with stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.

    • A popular destination for Instagram.

    • Lots of restaurants to suit all budgets.

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise transport.

Walk through the beautiful Old Town of Nice

  • The Old Town of Nice is made up of tall tenement houses lined up along narrow and shadowed streets. The ground floors are mainly occupied by restaurants, shops, and galleries of local artists. You can buy everything here, from Provencal spices to hand-made jewellery and cosmetics. Just go in and let yourself be carried away by the past, which is still very much present here. The Old Town of Nice (Vieille Ville), also called Old Nice (Vieux Nice), lies just below Castle Hill. To the south, it borders the Promenade des Anglais, while to the north it touches the Paillon River.

    The Old Town of Nice is full of historic tenements, churches, and squares. A walk through the narrow and shaded streets allows you to, almost, go back in time and feel the spirit of Old Nice – you just need to know where to look for it.

    • Distance: 45 min drive or 1 hour train.

    • Trip Duration: 4-6 hours

    • Perfect location for walking and exploring.

    • Easy to explore on your own or we can organise a guide.

    • We can provide you with a list of recommendations via Google Maps Lists so you can see all our favourite spots in Nice.

Visit the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco

  • “We believe that the Ocean is ONE: that it is global and that it unites the whole World. Man and Species. Men with himself, his past, his present and his future.” is the museum’s official statement and this makes perfect sense when strolling through the galleries from one species to the other as you discover hidden treasures hidden in the depth of the sea around the world. There is no shortage of opportunities to discover the ocean floor as the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is open every day except on Christmas Day (25 December) and the Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend.

    • Distance: 60 min drive

    • Duration: 4 - 6 hours.

    • Oceanographic Museum is a place where science and art meet. It’s a spectacular place dedicated entirely to the sea.

    • Easy to explore on your own and we can organise transport.

Visit the opulent glitz and glamour of Cannes

  • As you explore Cannes’ neighborhoods and streets, you’ll be blown away by the legendary places made famous by the Cannes Film Festival: you can stop by the Palais des Festivals and its renowned ‘steps’. Le Suquet old town is also something to be discovered on foot as it lanes the Croisette boulevard and its many artisan shops, galleries and high-hand brands - if you feel like a unique shopping experience Cannes is the perfect spot! You can also explore the Lerins Islands and so much more as Cannes is now blooming into a metropolitan city reaching for the future and attracting artists, designers, and brands to settle on the French Riviera.

    • Distance: 22 min by train , 60 minutes by car

    • Duration: 4-6 hours

    • French painter Pablo Picasso used to own a villa overlooking the bay in Cannes. His granddaughter currently resides there.

    • The Promenade de la Croisette is the waterfront avenue with palm trees known for stunning beaches, restaurants, shops and luxury hotels.[Text Wrapping Break]

    • The Cannes Film Festival takes place in mid-May when the city can be very busy, and also more expensive than other times of the year.

Visit the historic town of Saint Paul De Vence

  • Medieval walls encircle narrow streets and capture the heritage of more than a thousand years of history. Picking out the marks of history, either alone or with a guide, is to enter into the soul of Saint-Paul de Vence. The fountain at the heart of the village fills St-Paul's medieval vaults with more stories as you will walk from one small gallery to the other.

    Don’t miss the stunning view from St Paul’s ramparts and as you stroll along them, don’t forget to look at those small restaurants along the way as you will want to stop under an old sycamore tree on Place du Tilleul to bask in the history and charm of this old South of France village.

    • Distance: 60 min drive

    • Duration: 4 - 6 hours

    • Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a well preserved medieval village in the French Riviera

    • It’s picturesque and quaint with less tourists (compared to the coast)

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a guide and / or transport

Treat yourself to a scented walk in Grasse

  • Grasse is a unique town in the heart of Provence. Grasse is one the favourite cities of tourists and locals thanks to its many advantages. The town has the privilege to be situated only 15 kilometres from Cannes and therefore from the Mediterranean Sea. You will love its charm of yesteryear. Indeed Grasse has managed to keep its traditional side which is not the case with all places in Provence.

    Grasse is also a hymn to delicate smells. Indeed, the town is the world capital of perfumery. When one thinks of Grasse, one thinks of the legendary perfumery Fragonard, the small perfume shops that line the old town and the authentic know-how is something to be withheld. The reputation of Grasse nowadays crosses borders as even Dior settled its perfumery studio in the heart of the city.

    • Distance: 30 - 40 min drive

    • Duration: 4 - 6 hours

    • We recommend you book a perfumery tour as this is unique to Provence.

    • Easily to explore on your own and we can organise transport.

Visit the world's best shopping centre at CAP3000, directly on the beach

  • CAP3000 was voted the world's "Best Shopping Centre” at the MIPIM Awards in 2022 and goes beyond the traditional experience of a shopping centre.

    CAP3000 is accessible directly on the beach overlooking the mediterranean sea, with a variety of beachside cafes and restaurants, take a stroll, explore the shops, rent a paddle or a kayak at the shopping centre.

    • Distance: 45 min drive

    • Duration: 4 - 6 hours

    • Famous shopping centre located by the beach.

    • Easily to explore on your own and we can organise transport.

Take a walk and yoga/meditation in Saint Cassien Lake

  • The lake of Saint Cassien and its fresh waters are one of the most appreciated sites by locals and tourists of the Pays de Fayence. The dam of Saint-Cassien on the Biançon river was built in 1966. It is used for two purposes: to produce electricity and to supply water to certain towns in the Var department and in the west of the Alpes-Maritimes department. But you will find the charm of the place to be perfect for a yoga session or meditation on the lake’s banks.

    This leisure base is growing with many water activities, from paddling, to kayaking or even cruising an electrical boat for the day, everyone will find something to do.

    • Distance: 60 min drive

    • Trip Duration: 4-6 hours depending on what activities you choose.

    • Great for outdoor nature activities: hiking, swimming,, paddle boarding, swimming, rowing or windsurfing

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a personal guide.

    • We recommend you order a picnic lunch box from the villa the day before.

Take a wine tour around Provence’s most beautiful vineyards

  • Château Rasque in Taradeau is producing wines full of character that are an excellent reflection of the Provençal terroir and the love of the land.

    With its 100 hectares of land, the vineyard is a testimonial to work methods built on tradition, quality and respect for the soil, the grapevines and the wine itself. You’ll find beautiful landscapes typical of the Southern vineyards.

    • Distance: 30-40 min drive

    • Trip Duration: 3-4hours depending.

    • You can explore on your own or we can organise a personal guide and / or transport.

    • We recommend you have lunch in Taradeau. Bookings essential.

    • This tour is included of the Yoga, Culture, Wine & Dine Retreat.