
EXPÉRIENCES
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EXPÉRIENCES *
Taste the local French specialities in boulangeries, cafés and restaurants
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.