What Makes The Best St Tropez Rosé?

July 19, 2017 by

Rosé wine is undoubtedly the tipple of choice for those on holiday in Saint Tropez, with every bar, restaurant, supermarket and wine cellar offering a huge choice of ‘pink’ wine, most of which comes from local vineyards.

Surrounding many of our luxury villas to rent in Saint Tropez are hectares upon hectares of vineyards producing nearly half of all rosé wine consumed in France. One such vineyard is Château Minuty, on the Route de la Berle near the picturesque village of Gassin, which has been producing Minuty Rosé for three generations.

St Tropez House speaks with these top St Tropez rosé producers to uncover the history of this extremely popular label.

Minuty- Vineyards South of France

Minuty Rosé Wine – Vineyards in the South of France

STH: When was rosé wine first produced in St Tropez?

CM: It was 26 centuries ago, when the Greeks founded a colony in Marseille that the first vines and wine-growing culture were introduced in Provence. The wines made in those days had a light colour, similar to rosés, because the maceration of juices with grape skins was either unknown or only practiced on a limited basis. Provence is therefore the oldest wine-growing region in France, and the first wines to be made were rosés.

STH: Why does St Tropez lend itself to making rosé wine?

CM: Provence’s climate, soils and grape varieties are all perfectly suited for rosé winemaking. Provence is France’s leading region, representing 40% of domestic production and 5.6% of worldwide production of rosé wines. It is also the only production area specialised in this type of product, as rosé wines represent 87% of production in Provence (9% red and 4% white). The entire winemakers’ work is focused on rosé wines production, meanwhile, in the other French regions of production (Bordeaux …), rosé wines are considered as byproducts of red wines.

Minuty Rose Wine - Bottles

Château Minuty Rosé Wine Cellar

STH: What’s the secret behind the success of St Tropez rosé?

CM: Rosé is more than just a passing trend. It has become an integral part of French society as consumer trends have changed and new life styles have emerged: meals that are less structured, the increasing popularity of ethnic cuisine from around the world, greater simplicity, new encounters, good times and instant gratification. When drinking rosé, the consumer discovers a different approach to wine – easier access, without all the constraints and traditional formalities.  It is a wine that symbolises greater freedom.

STH: Tell us more about Château Minuty

CM: Château Minuty is a family estate managed today by François and Jean-Etienne Matton, the third generation of the family. Today, Château Minuty is the foremost producer of Côtes de Provence Rosé wine. Its vineyards occupy 110 hectares comprising two sites: 75 ha in the villages of Gassin and Ramatuelle on the Saint-Tropez peninsula; and 35 ha in Vidauban in the Centre Var.

Château Minuty - Gassin, South of France

Château Minuty – Gassin, South of France

STH: Which are the most popular Minuty rosé wines?

CM: Our latest creation is Château Minuty 281 which we started for the Cannes Film Festival in May 2015. This wine is made with a single variety of Grenache grape especially adapted to our soil and our climate. The production is limited to 15,000 bottles per year and this wine was reserved for the French Riviera this year and will be proposed to foreign countries next year with small allocations per country.

Château Minuty OR was created in 2009. It is made with the best lands of Grenache from the Château (95% of Grenache in the blend) and it is representative of what could be the Grenache expression on our estate. Depending on the harvest, the yearly production is more or less of 250,000 bottles. This wine is our flagship all around the world and should be reserved for the best valuable places such as Michelin-starred restaurants, high level beach clubs etc.

M de MINUTY is made with100 % purchased grapes and is our best seller all around the world. M de MINUTY rosé is exactly what you expect of a Provence rosé wine: it is light coloured, fresh, fruity and easy to drink. The yearly production is 2 million of bottles.

Minuty - Team Pain Vin

Château Minuty – Team Pain Vin

Discover Château Minuty for yourself and book on to the wine tasting course at Château Minuty in Gassin.

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Wine & Dine

The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Annual Gala Returns to Saint-Tropez in 2017

April 18, 2017 by

Leonardo DiCaprio’s fourth French Riviera annual fundraising auction will take place on 26th July 2017. The gala is organised by the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation and has become famous for its opulence and ultra-high-profile guest list. Guests have been sent “save-the-date” e-mails for the environmental organisation’s annual fundraiser at Saint-Tropez’s Domaine Bertaud Belieu vineyard.

Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation

DiCaprio’s charity is a major player in wildlife and ocean conservation through grants and public education campaigns. The event raises funds to protect Earth’s last wild places, implement solutions that restore balance to threatened ecosystems and ensure the long-term health and well-being of all its inhabitants. Last year, the Oscar-winning actor’s foundation was able to raise $45 million at the Saint-Tropez party.

Who Will Attend the DiCaprio Foundation Gala?

The Gala is a sophisticated affair with a cocktail reception, live auction and performances. It attracts a diverse crowd of celebrities from different areas of show business; for example, Mariah Carey, Bono and Chris Rock were just three of the stars who attended the 2016 event. Del Rey was the evening’s musical performer along with R&B/Hip-Hop singer The Weeknd and special musical guest Andrea Bocelli. DiCaprio invited plenty of his peers, such as big name Hollywood actors Charlize Theron, Bradley Cooper, Edward Norton, Kevin Spacey, Marion Cotillard, Robert De Niro, Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett who all attended the exclusive evening on the Riviera.

Bertaud Belieu vineyard Gassin

Bertaud Belieu vineyard – photo credit Pack-Shot/Shutterstock

Once again, this year’s St Tropez Gala will be co-hosted by the influential actor/environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, the foundation’s global chair Milutin Gatsby and chief executive officer Terry Tamminen. The gala will feature a spectacular array of auction items filled with historic celebrity memorabilia, extensive contemporary art and exotic travel experiences.

Last year, the auction items included a hugely popular charcoal and acrylic on canvas, titled Tiger on Last Legs by actor and artist Adrien Brody and the chance to be DiCaprio’s personal guest at the men’s final of the US Open. Other auction items included the chance to spend a week on set with Martin Scorsese, a 1950 Jaguar Mark V Drophead signed by Hollywood actors and the cufflinks DiCaprio wore when he received his Oscar. This year, you can expect more of the same once-in-a-lifetime experiences and items available for auction.

The Cause: Protecting the Earth and Combatting Climate Change

DiCaprio is an outspoken advocate of environmental conservation, even using his 2016 Best Actor Oscar victory as a chance to express his concern about climate change. In his Oscar acceptance speech, he said: “It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species, and we need to work collectively together and stop procrastinating.” Attendees of the annual DiCaprio St Tropez gala will hear more of his views spoken with conviction and are sure to donate even more funds to his organisation in 2017.

The Venue: Domaine Bertaud Belieu

DiCaprio clearly loves the Domaine Bertaud Belieu Vineyard in St Tropez since this the fourth time he’s chosen it as the venue for his Gala. The prestigious wine estate is renowned for its palate-friendly wines beloved by connoisseurs and A-listers alike. Bertaud Belieu vineyard is located in the picturesque village of Gassin and encompasses 65 hectares of vines. The estate dates back to 1340 when it covered more than 600 hectares.

Bertaud Belieu vineyard Gassin

Bertaud Belieu vineyard – photo credit: Pack-Shot/Shutterstock

Domaine Bertaud Belieu’s refreshing rosé wine is one of the brand’s most popular varieties. In fact, 80% of its wine is rosé, but the Estate is also known for the quality of its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Cotes de Provence red and white wines.

Where Can You Stay While Attending the Gala?

Fortunately, St Tropez House has several villas located close to the Domaine Bertaud Belieu in Gassin and the surrounding countryside. We’ve picked some of our top St Tropez villa rentals available for the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Annual Gala this July.

Villa Bastide de Belieu

This Provencal style villa is virtually on the doorstep of the Domaine Bertaud Belieu vineyard and is situated within beautiful, manicured gardens that stretch across 6,000 m². The luxurious 420m² property is the epitome of Riviera living with beaches, a golf course and Gassin’s famous Polo Club all located within 10 minutes its grounds. Villa Bastide de Belieu has six beautifully appointed bedrooms including the 50m2 master bedroom and an independent guest house with two ensuite bedrooms.

Villa Bastide de Belieu

The 60m2 living room is sumptuously decorated in neutral tones with fine cured leather upholstery and the dining room is adjoined by a fully equipped kitchen with access to the wine cellar. There is a summer kitchen and the house is full of technology and entertainment options such as Satellite TV, iPod docking sound system and WiFi to enjoy while relaxing. Of course, some guests want a more active holiday, in which case they’ll enjoy the petanque court, fitness room and swimming pool.

Villa Bastide Belieu

Not only is the villa near to Domaine Bertaud Belieu vineyard, but it is also close to three Michelin restaurants in Gassin: Auberge La Verdoyante, Le Pescadou, and Restaurant Le Micocoulier. This refined St Tropez villa rental puts you at the heart of the action and close to the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Annual Gala.

Villa Ladouceur

Villa Ladouceur is another Bastide full of Provencal charm and located among sun-soaked Riviera vineyards. This is an ideal base for a relaxing stay while you’re in town for the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Gala. The five-bedroom villa is less than 3 minutes away from the village of Ramatuelle, 5 minutes from the village of Gassin, and less than 10 minutes from the beaches of Pampelonne. The covered terrace is the perfect place to have evening drinks with a large group of friends and it can be accessed from the living room, American Kitchen and dining area. WiFi access is available throughout the property so you can stay connected and check your email before slipping into the swimming pool for a refreshing dip.

villas near Belieu vineyard Gassin

The villa sleeps 10, but the first floor contains an independent apartment with its own kitchenette, which is perfect for extended families and those who want a little more privacy. Other excellent features include a laundry room, parking space and a garage for bicycles since you’ll probably be tempted to explore the country lanes of St Tropez.

Villa Michsino, Sinopolis

Villa Michsino is a spectacular modern villa for rent and it’s ideal for those who want a relaxing experience while remaining close to the action in St Tropez. Villa Michsino is located in the ancient hills of Gassin with panoramic views of the Golfe de St Tropez and the town itself, just a short drive away. The 280m² luxury property to rent in Gassin is just a five-minute drive from the closest beach and the iconic stretch of Pampelonne is 15-20 minutes away by car.

villas near Leonardo DiCaprio gala St Tropez

The 5-bedroom villa is in immaculate condition and decorated in contemporary style with sumptuous modern furniture throughout. Spread across three floors, the main floor is flooded with light from the enormous bay windows that look onto a family terrace and the villa’s Mediterranean garden. In fact, the bedrooms are equally well appointed with the two large en-suite bedrooms on the top floor boasting unobstructed views down to the coast from their individual balconies. The three double bedrooms on the middle floor each come with an individual shower room and direct access to the swimming pool.

Villa Michsino St Tropez

Villa Michsino is also ideally situated for easy access to the world famous beaches of St Tropez. The nearest beach being just a 5-minute drive from the property gate, while the golden sandy stretches of Pampelonne Beach lie 15-20 minutes away by car.

Despite its modern exterior, Villa Michsino is situated within a typically Mediterranean garden where guests can relax in blissful seclusion. The amenities include a heated swimming pool, 2-car garage and an alarm system. It’s not possible to feel bored in this area with St Tropez’s nightlife, sports clubs and medieval towns to explore. Best of all, the vineyards of Gassin, including Domaine Bertaud Belieu are all within close proximity to Villa Michsino.

Villa Cerise, Sinopolis

Villa Cerise is not just any St Tropez villa rental; it’s one of our finest. Voted the best sea view villa in the St Tropez House portfolio, the 500m2 villa is a “cherry” on top of the beautiful Sinopolis hills. The 6-bedroom villa is located halfway between the beaches of Pampelonne, Saint-Tropez, the village of Gassin and the village of Ramatuelle. This example of top-end design is idyllically situated in a 2,500 m2 garden with views overlooking the entire Gulf of St Tropez.

Villa Cerise St Tropez

The property is located at the end of a private cul-de-sac in a classified green zone and it benefits from a state-of-the-art security system. It has a modern interior and exterior which has recently been extended. The large living room overlooks a terrace that faces the azure waters of the Mediterranean and the village of St Tropez. A heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi reside below with similarly captivating views.

The decor is modern and inviting, with the light-infused master bedroom having its own private terrace and a bathroom with a dressing room, a bath and a beautiful hammam. Villa Cerise’s other exceptional features include a fully-equipped kitchen, a spacious dining room, storage, a laundry room, wine cellar and garage.

Villa Cerise near Leonardo DiCaprio St Tropez gala

Villa Cerise would undoubtedly make a wonderful base for your stay in St Tropez during the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Gala and for a longer holiday to make the most of the Riviera during its long summer. You can check out the villa with our drone video here. It’s an outstanding St Tropez villa rental for those who want privacy and luxury while still remaining close to the town.

If you are planning to be in town for the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation Gala and would like to rent a luxury villa in St Tropez, please contact Emilia.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: , , ,

Tahiti Beach, St Tropez: A Wonderfully Luxurious Area for Villa Rentals

March 28, 2017 by

The ultra-famous Plage de Tahiti is one of the best spots on the Riviera to take a luxurious break. It’s an iconic sight, distinguished by bright orange parasols, at the northern end of Pampelonne. Tahiti Beach exudes a nostalgic glamour that appeals to a more mature demographic – people who remember its undisputed heydey as the European summer destination of choice for sirens of the silver screen and Hollywood heavyweights. It became an iconic hotspot when Brigitte Bardot starred in ‘And God Created Woman’ in the mid-1950s and has attracted a devoted clientele of showbiz favourites ever since.

Tahiti Beach takes pride of place on the shoreline of beautiful Ramatuelle and attracts a discerning selection of holidaymakers who appreciate its mellow vibe. This extraordinary corner of Pampelonne Beach has an abundance of natural beauty and wonderful establishments from which to enjoy your surroundings. Fine white sand and scrub-covered dunes form the backdrop to clear blue waters and one of the Mediterranean’s most glamorous party scenes.

Tahiti beach, St Tropez

Tahiti’s water sports facilities and its renowned beach club restaurants will appeal to children and adults alike. Similarly, St Tropez’s stunning marina, its megayachts and cosmopolitan cafe culture are just under two miles away. Tahiti really is close to everything you could need but tranquil enough to enjoy the lush natural surroundings from the privacy of your own secure luxury villa rental. We’ll take a look at the Tahiti area and its domains in more detail in the following paragraphs.

Cap Tahiti Domain

The secured domain of Cap Tahiti overlooks Pampelonne Beach and has direct access to Tahiti Beach on foot. This beautiful section of Ramatuelle is surrounded by verdant gardens and protected by a guard 24 hours a day. There are approximately 30 houses in the residence, with a guardian’s cottage at the entrance for security. Cap Tahiti has two key selling points in addition to its exclusivity and security. Firstly, at the peak of its vantage point over the glittering St Tropez coastline, Cap Tahiti boasts stunning views. Secondly, it’s idyllic location guarantees fast access to the town centre and its surrounding attractions.

Villa Rokko

Villa Rokko

To fully appreciate these panoramic views, we recommend Villa Rokko, which boasts breathtaking sea views beyond subtropical gardens and contemporary design that will impress even the most discerning of guests. It has a medium/high rental price from €25,000/week. The 6-bedroom luxury villa is a modern masterpiece and features an American kitchen, outdoor dining area and large swimming pool.

Villa Tahiti Charm

Villa Tahiti Charm

Nearby (but not inside) Cap Tahiti, the aptly-named Villa Tahiti Charm is part of a private domain of two villas. The 4-bedroom luxury rental property is minutes away from Tahiti beach and just around the corner from the wonderful Pomme de Pin restaurant. It’s an oasis of calm with an outside dining area and swimming pool set within a generously sized garden and is priced from €15,000 per week.

Tahiti Road

Villa Mangueira has seven bedrooms and is perfect for those who love an outdoors holiday since it has 26 000 m² of park. The grounds contain a swimming pool with a pool house, a tennis court with and a helipad station which gives maximum transportation convenience. Villa Mangueira is beautifully furnished and has a sea view from its exquisite master bedroom.

Villa Mangueira

Villa Mangueira is not overlooked by any other property but it is close to its neighbour on Tahiti Road, Villa Pareo. This superb 800 m² modern property is located on a large 11,000 m² garden and has 8 bedrooms. Villa Pareo is an ultra-luxurious villa with a swimming pool; in fact, it has two pools, one for the main house and another for the guesthouse, along with two al fresco dining areas. There is parking for several cars, an automatic gate and an alarm system, and soon a house for the staff will be located near the entrance gate. These two gated properties are wonderful examples of Cap Tahiti’s exclusive buildings that offer high-level security and comfort.

Villa Pareo, St Tropez

Villa Pareo

 

La Capilla

The gated community of La Capilla is another sought-after domain in the vicinity of Tahiti Beach, which ensures that guests have complete privacy and security. It is smaller and less well known than Cap Tahiti but equally prestigious and beautiful and has some medium/high budget properties. Just like Cap Tahiti, it is very close to St Tropez centre and the traffic-free roads make travelling to the beaches a breeze.

Villa La Capilla

The eponymous Villa La Capilla is a wonderful Ramatuelle property available for fortnightly (approx €60,000) and monthly rental in the heart of the domain. The elegant 5-bedroom villa was recently renovated and restored to its original beauty and is situated in a tropical garden which offers a glimpse of the sea. It is within walking distance of Tahiti Beach and Place des Lices with its famous market is just 5 minutes drive.

Cap Bastide, St Tropez

Villa Cap Bastide

Cap Bastide is another premium property located in the Tahiti area, just outside La Capilla. It’s just three minutes walk away from family-friendly Tahiti beach making the large landscaped garden seem like a verdant extension of the beach. The large shallow pool is perfect for all ages and the five bedrooms leave plenty of room to accommodate a nanny or housekeeper alongside your family. It’s one of our economical options at around €15,000 a week.

Chateau Messardiere

The highlight of the Tahiti area is Saint‑Tropez’s largest hotel, Chateau Messardiere. Set in 25 acres of immaculately-kept grounds, this five-star hotel has 117 rooms and features a spa, two restaurants, bars and an art gallery. It is a fantastic location for weddings and celebrations because its magnificent grounds and interior are simply stunning. The gardens include a botanical footpath and it takes preservation seriously as the French Bird Protection League’s (LPO) only partner-hotel.

Villa Bellazard

St Tropez House is delighted to present the ultra-luxurious Villa Bellazard, just 5 minutes away from Chateau Messardiere. It is one of the best villas to rent in St Tropez and boasts an exceptional array of features such as a fitness room, a library, a personal chef and 2-car garage. The 5-bedroom villa has outstanding views of the hotel and the Bay of Pampelonne beyond an abundance of Mediterranean flora. The property is controlled by intelligent home technology and has a video and alarm system for extra security.

Summary of our Tahiti Property Prices

Economical Budget – from 15K/week

Cap Bastide

Tahiti Charm

Medium/High Budget

Rokko – from 25K/week

Tahiti – from 30K/week

La Capilla -from 30K/week

High Budget – from 45k/week

Mangueira

Top luxury –  from 80k/week.

Pareo

Bellazard

Tahiti Beach Essential Information

Not only are our favourite villas all located within walking distance of the best beaches in St Tropez, but getting to the centre is a very short car drive on roads without traffic. Here are some of our favourite restaurants and hotels in the vicinity of Tahiti Beach.

Restaurants and Hotels

Tahiti Beach Club – This iconic private beach club is the area’s oldest (1946) and most popular. It’s a sophisticated but laid-back establishment with an excellent menu of gourmet cuisine and snacks to be enjoyed right at the edge of the water. Its small hotel is chic and less expensive than you would expect given the fabulous location. It was one of the most popular hangouts for celebrities in the fifties and sixties.

Chateau Messardiere – As mentioned earlier in the article, this luxury hotel is the gem of Tahiti with its immaculate grounds and top-class service. Set in large and beautifully-kept grounds, everything about this chateau is soothing and pristine from its restaurant terrace to its spas. The 400-strong wine list is bound to have something to suit your palate.

La Ferme de Augustin – This 4-star hotel is set amid lovely gardens and has some fantastically relaxing communal areas like the lounge with a fireplace, the heated outdoor pool and the terrace. The gardens and orchard provide the seasonal vegetables used in the hotel restaurant’s regional cuisine.

La Pomme de Pin – This lovely restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine served on a shaded terrace close to Cap Tahiti. Famous for its pizza and fresh food prepared simply, this is a place you should definitely make a reservation for since it is very popular with locals and holidaymakers alike.

Tropezina Beach – Just along from Tahiti Beach, Tropezina offers a menu of fresh seafood and Provencal specialities served by friendly staff. Unlike many of the beach clubs, Tropezina is open for most of the year allowing customers to enjoy the Riviera’s mild winter climate.

 

Filed Under: Articles, Real Estate & Yachts Tagged With: , ,

The Best Villas to Rent in Ramatuelle

March 6, 2017 by

Ramatuelle villa for rent

Ramatuelle is a beautiful historic village perched above the Mediterranean overlooking Pampelonne beach. It’s close to the beaches and St Tropez, but quiet enough to relax in the beautiful villas and their picturesque gardens. Invoke the envy of your friends by renting one of these stunning Ramatuelle villas for the perfect care-free holiday.

Villa Pampelonne Dream

As its name suggests, this modern sea view villa is close to the vibrant beach of Pampelonne and its lively beach clubs. Surrounded by an attractive Mediterranean garden full of pine, olive and palm trees, the tropical wood facade of Villa Pampelonne Dream perfectly complements the surrounding nature. Its luxurious features include a spacious light-flooded living area of around 80 m2 with roof beams and high ceiling, an American kitchen, a loggia and a garage. Each bedroom from the master suite to the 4 guest bedrooms have their own bathroom and open onto the terrace, garden and pool area.

Pampelonne villa rental

Villa Pampelonne Dream

Villa Ferle

A Tuscan-style villa on the French Riviera is a beautiful combination! Villa Ferle’s location in 10,000m2 of grounds on a prestigious estate is simply breathtaking. The 350m2 5-bedroom bougainvillaea-covered property is characterised by a refined simplicity and careful attention to detail that permeates the entire house from the high ceilings to the Italian tiled floors. It has unique features such as a private bar, piano room and summer kitchen. Villa Ferle is a wonderful family vacation rental tucked away from the bustle of St Tropez.

Villa Briesc

This modern waterfront villa is perfect for art and interior design enthusiasts, who are sure to appreciate its thoughtfully-planned contemporary design. All of its stylish rooms have styled finishes – exquisite furniture, wooden floors and marble touches. Villa Briesc can accommodate up to 12 guests in 6 bedrooms and is a wonderful Ramatuelle property rental. Its spacious living and dining area boast huge windows with fabulous sea views. Guests can also enjoy access to their own luxurious heated swimming pool from the first-floor deck and a spacious balcony on the second floor.

Villa rental Ramatuelle

Villa Briesc

Villa Grand Lagon

Villa Grand Lagon is a Provencal villa of 400m² with a garden of 7500m². Its large heated pool is separated into 5 distinct pools and is a standout feature, and it’s overlooked by the sumptuously furnished living room and terrace area. This villa is the epitome of luxury with two kitchens (one professional grade), a fully-equipped gym, a steam/shower and sauna for 6-8 people, an interior patio, covered parking and a helipad. Security is a priority with 12 cameras in the garden and a volumetric alarm system in all areas. All 9 rooms are ensuite and two have Jacuzzis.

Villa Violaine

Located in the heart of Ramatuelle village, this beautiful Provencal property offers tranquility and privacy. Villa Violaine is close to the sea, offering captivating sea views over the Pamplelonne Bay and surrounding hills and vineyards. The large garden (10,000m2) is the perfect oasis for relaxation and there’s a child’s pool with the main swimming pool. All 6 bedrooms are ensuite and have air-con.

luxury villa rental Ramatuelle

Villa Violaine

Villa Lou Casa

Located in a prestigious and secluded community in the rolling hills of Ramatuelle above the area’s exclusive beaches, Villa Lou Casa could be your own slice of Riviera paradise. The stone bastide villa is idyllically situated in 20,000m2 of beautifully landscaped garden with an adjoining guest house and pool house. It also has access to a private tennis court, fitness room, Jacuzzi and a large heated swimming pool. The 400m2 villa has 6 bedrooms, a TV lounge, modern kitchen, but the real standout features are its generous terrace and outdoors lounge area with spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

Villa Paradise

The ultra-modern 500 m² Villa Paradise certainly lives up to its name and is a luxurious Ramatuelle villa. Its quiet location, just five minutes from the beaches of Pampelonne and Escalet, makes it ideal to create treasured memories with your family and friends. Each of the 8 bedrooms has its own bathroom and four of them are king-sized and two have large terraces with sea views. The sumptuously furnished lounge opens onto the 6000 m2 manicured garden and the views are simply breathtaking. This property is available to rent and to buy.

ramatuelle luxury villa rental

Villa Paradise

Villa Castel

This luxurious property is the ultimate in refined taste. Villa Castel is located in an enviable position within walking distance from the Moorea and Bora Bora beaches of Pampelonne. Its fantastic facilities include a small office with computer, a home cinema video projector, bar and toilets, a gym room in the garden and a large bar and summer kitchen area. The beautiful 750 m² villa sleeps 14 guests across 7 rooms and it’s surrounded by a huge garden with private and direct access to the beach.

Please contact us if you are interested in any of these properties or any other luxury villas from St Tropez House’s extensive portfolio.

 

Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: , ,

Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez: A Fantastic Week of Sailing

October 10, 2016 by

 Les Voiles de St Tropez

The world famous regatta Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez has just drawn to a close and once again it offered a thrilling spectacle for visitors. Some of them rented a luxorious villa located near the coast. The weeklong event took place between 24th September and the 2nd October. Originally called La Nioularge, 2016 marked Les Voiles’ 18th edition, which signifies the end of the sailing season and brings together a dazzling collection of yachts. This event is renowned for its unrivalled range of classic and modern yachts.

The regatta has three dedicated race zones, Nioulargue for the Modern yachts, Pampelonne for the Wallys and the bay of St Tropez for the 15m JIs. The sunny autumn days provided the perfect setting in the Gulf of St Tropez where the boats created stunning silhouettes against the glistening waters. The yachts competed for the Rolex Trophy and this year it was awarded to the winner of the ‘Grands Tradition’ class, MOONBEAM IV. Partners of the prestigious event include BMW, Rolex and Jetfly. The modern yachts kicked off the races on Monday, 26th September. The carbon-rigged Super-Maxis were particularly impressive and contrasted against the four unique gaff riggers that were invited to race off Portalet once again. This amazing blend of styles really demonstrates why Les Voiles is so highly regarded and in a class of its own. Michael Slade’s LEOPARD and the George David’s RAMBLER were the real standouts at the outset.

The Wallys Les Voiles welcomed 16 of the Monegasque brand, Wally, back to compete. The large yachts completed an extremely technical 24-mile coastal course offshore of Pampelonne, which you could spectate from balcony of a rented St. Tropez Villa. Despite an original breeze of around twelve to fourteen knots, the wind began to drop away later and meant the more powerful boats, like the enormous BETTER PLACE, had less of a breeze to boost their sails. However, the Centos, GALATEIA and MAGIC CARPET CUBED ultimately managed to protect their rankings by pushing through more easily than the heavier 80 footers. In recognition of their high-tech attributes, BMW chose to celebrate the Wallys by awarding its own BMW Trophy to the best Wally at the end of the week’s racing – OPEN SEASON.

The Traditional Yachts

The classic yachts usually compete on Tuesday onwards, but four 15m JIs were allowed to start a day earlier this year. It’s the final act in their annual championship and since only four out of the original nineteen remain fit to race today, the Fife designs wanted to compete in as many races as possible. MARISKA, TUIGA, HISPANIA and THE LADY ANNE each had their individual strengths and challenges. According to the new Class rules, each regatta now counts Rent. MARISKA, the prevailing leader of the annual 15m JI at the beginning of the regatta had to battle hard to hold onto its narrow lead over main rival, the Yacht Club de Monaco’s flagship, TUIGA. However, THE LADY ANNE was on course for a dramatic comeback. MARISKA’s Sébastien Audigane stated, “The Lady Anne sailed a blinder with some great starts. We managed to stay in the game, but we’re going to have to watch out for the English now in the overall ranking…” MARISKA managed to hold on for the win.

The Modern Craft 180 Modern yachts sailed around a 19-mile triangular course off Nioulargue. Meanwhile, the smaller IRC C, D and E boats competed over a 14-mile course, with the finish decided at the Portalet Tower. Conditions were bracing and led to some intense competition at the passage marks, but despite their measurement handicap, the big maxis hardly flinched and quickly finished, thus boosting their overall rankings. The respective subcategories within the modern category ended thus: IRC A Group 1st – LEOPARD (Mini Maxi) IRC B Group 1st – MUSIC (Baltic 50) IRC C Group (Edmond de Rothschild Trophy) 1st – TEAM VISION MUSIC (TP52) IRC D Group 1st – TEAM CHALETS (A40) IRC E Group 1st – ABSOLUTELY (M 36) Safety and Prize-Giving.
Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez 2016 went as smoothly and safely as previous editions with the exceptional surveillance plan put in place by organisers. The different race zones for the yachts are identified and clearly marked out by inflatable buoys, with at least 14 ribs monitoring the three race rounds. The prize giving took place on Sunday 2nd October.

Filed Under: Lifestyle

K Jacques: the Tropezienne Footwear

March 4, 2016 by

Not to be mistaken for an everyday summer shoe, this is a K Jacques – a beautifully handcrafted sandal, a version of which has been gracing the feet of everyone who is anyone in Saint Tropez for decades.

 

Still very much in vogue with the new generation of international jet setters, the first pair of K Jacques sandals was created in a small workshop in rue Allard, downtown Saint Tropez, in 1933.

 

They were the brainchild of a talented couple called Mr and Mrs Jacques Kéklikian, who had come to France, and more specifically Saint Tropez, as refugees from Armenian.

K Jacques the Tropezienne Footwear 1

Each pair of these exquisitely soft leather sandals were made to measure for customers that called in to the tiny workshop, including a young Brigitte Bardot who first came to Saint Tropez in 1954 as a young starlet filming And God Created Woman.

 

Other legendry feet to have worn a pair of K Jacques over the years include those belonging to French writer Francoise Giroud, America actress Joan Collins, painters Cocteau and Picasso, and more recently supermodel Kate Moss and actresses Miranda Kerr and Hilary Duff.

 

In the 80-plus years since the company was founded, the K Jacques brand has gone from strength to strength, with three sales outlets in Saint Tropez itself as well as a showroom shop in the Marais quartier of Paris.

 

The original Ks are sadly no longer of this life, with Jacques passing away in 1989 followed by his wife in 1997, but the company is still very much in the family, and is now run by the couple’s children. And although some of the styles of K Jacques have not changed since the pre-war days, there are today many more designs and colours involved in making these hand-made sandals.

 

Each design is given its own imaginative label, including names such as Homere, Picon, Epicure, Gandhi and Bikini, each as wonderfully creative as the next.

 

The company now employs more than 25 people and exports to all corners of the globe, including America, Japan and Africa.

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Club 55: Saint Tropez’s Original Beach Club

February 26, 2016 by

Saint Tropez’s Pampelonne Beach is one of the most photographed stretches of sand in Europe, if not the world, with one section in particular getting more footage than most: Club 55.

Of the string of exclusive private beach clubs dotted on the three-mile long beach, the understated yet undeniably cool Club 55 is by far the most sought-after address along this stylish stretch of coastline.

Indeed, barely a day goes by in the height of the summer without some Hollywood star, supermodel or world leader being snapped as they arrive at the famous beach club, which inevitably comes with its own jetty allowing guests direct access from their superyachts moored in the bay.

Club 55 Saint Tropez’s Original Beach Club 1

Amongst last summer’s celebrity diners at the number one lunch spot near Boulevard Patch were regulars Sir Elton John and his family, comedian Sacha Baron Cohen and his wife Isla Fisher and international artist Bono, who lives not a million miles away from Saint Tropez in Eze-sur-Mer.

In fact, tables covered by the restaurant’s signatory blue and white cloths are such a premium that reservations for lunch must be made well in advance over the summer months, as do bookings for the white sunbeds which adorn the club’s private beach under casually hung white sails.

The whole look is one of shabby chic, with a simple piece of drift wood with the words Club 55 painted on serving as the welcome sign to the restaurant.

Simple too is the menu at Club 55, with freshly caught fish, grilled steaks and huge salads made up of vegetables from the owners’ garden being amongst the favourites on the single page menu.

Prices at the restaurant are fairly standard for Saint Tropez but with views, ambiance and service to ensure memories that last a life time, there are rarely any complaints.

One of the first famous guests to fall in love with Club 55 was a young Brigitte Bardot, who came to Saint Tropez to film the classic movie And God Created Woman in the summer of 1954. Legend has it that Bardot and her then husband Roger Vadim, the film’s director, used to come to the restaurant every day for lunch.

Then just a simple wooden shack on the beach, the restaurant was adopted as a canteen for all those on the set of And God Created Woman, and the rest, they say, is history…

For reservations contact +33 (0)4 94 55 55 55 or visit the website club55.fr

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What to Wear on the Beach in Saint Tropez

February 19, 2016 by

With snow forecast across much of Europe, thinking about what swimwear you will be slipping into on your next holiday in Saint Tropez probably couldn’t be further from your mind.

 

You’re quite possibly thinking more along the lines of thick ski jackets, woolly gloves and thermal underwear, rather than what bikini will look good this summer.

What to Wear on the Beach in Saint Tropez 1

But we believe you can never be too prepared to hit the beach in style, so we’ve done some research and come up with a list of swimwear labels that you can expect to see this year in Saint Tropez:

 

One of the most popular swimwear labels for women in Saint Tropez is the local brand Pain de Sucre, founded in the town in 1983. The label prides itself on its sophisticated and creative swimwear and lingerie collections which are both exclusive and stylish. The brand now has more than a dozen boutiques scattered across France and in the Caribbean, London and Casablanca. www.paindesucre.com

 

Not far from the Pain du Sucre boutique on the very same road in central Saint Tropez is another hugely successful Saint Tropezienne brand founded in the quintessential French town in the 1980s. The first Kiwi Saint Tropez swimwear was sold in the ultra-exclusive Club 55 on Pampelonne Beach, with three more outlets soon appearing in the town itself. Now with multiple boutiques across the French Riviera including Monaco and Cannes the label does a wonderful collection for women, men and children. www.kiwi.fr

 

  • Vilebrequin, 24 Rue Gambetta, Saint-Tropez, Tel: + 04 94 97 62 04

Originally designed for men, this brand is almost as famous as the resort in which it was initially founded, some 45 years ago.  Vilebrequin was the brain child of a young racing car fan, Fred Prysquel, who allegedly sketched his first designs for swim shorts on a corner of the table cloth in a Saint Tropez café one summer’s day. He decided the shorts should be made out of spinnaker sail material, in vibrant colours, a model which gained instant success. Now, there are shops around the world and the Vilebrequin range of swimwear for men, women and children is as popular today as it was 40 odd years ago. fr.vilebrequin.com

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Top 5 Designer Shops in Saint Tropez

February 12, 2016 by

Saint Tropez is synonymous with sea, sun and sundowners, but there is a whole lot more to this charming French resort than a strip of sand and some exclusive beach clubs.

The town of Saint Tropez, where a number of our more central luxury villas are located, has a long and rich history, and its charming cobbled streets are full of relics from its fascinating past.

The winding, narrow roads are also home to some of the most luxurious shops anywhere along the French Riviera. In fact, the town boasts its own ‘golden triangle’ formed by Place des Lices, Rue Gambetta and Rue Allard – Saint Tropez’s equivalent of New York’s Fifth Avenue or London’s Bond Street so impressive is the list of designer labels found here.

Top 5 Designer Shops in Saint Tropez 1

You’ll be spoiled for choice. Our Top 5 favourite designer shops are:

Diane von Furstenberg
Diane von Furstenberg, or DVF to her legions of fans, is famous for her iconic wrap dresses which are perfect for lounging around on holiday in Saint Tropez. Her signature warps will also look great dressed up with the designer’s wedges and heels which can also be found in the boutique on  15 rue Gambetta Tel: +33 (0)4 94 96 68 30

Gas Bijoux

If you are looking for some exquisite jewellery to go with your DVF wrap, we suggest you visit the Gas Bijoux boutique on Place de la Garonne. Designer Andre Gas came to Saint Tropez in the 1960s, straight out of Paris’s Ecole des Beaux-Arts, where he sold his bracelets and earrings on the town’s beaches. He opened his first store in Saint Tropez in 1971 and still oversees artisans whose work is sold in Gas Bijoux boutiques in Marseille, Paris, Milan and New York. www.gasbijoux.com.

Roberto Cavalli
Apart from Cannes, Saint Tropez is the only town in France where you can stroll in to a Roberto Cavalli store and browse his eclectic collection of beachwear, footwear and accessories. The boutique is also located on Place de la Garonne, in central Saint Tropez.

Tel: +33 4 94 56 02 70

Christian Dior
We are not sure what we prefer most about shopping in Dior in Saint Tropez: the beautiful collections of summer dress and sunglasses or the location. The boutique is housed in a stunning three-story building at 13, rue Francois Sibilli which closely resembles a Belle Epoque villa. Here you will find all the Dior collections displayed beautifully over the three floors, and an enclosed garden where customers can stop and refuel in the Dior des Lices, a restaurant run by Michelin chef Yannick Alleno. Tel: +33 (0)4 98 12 67 65

Louis Vuitton
Last but not least on our list of designer boutiques in Saint Tropez is Louis Vuitton, found in walking distance from Dior at 48, rue Francois Sibilli. Recently renovated, Villa Louis Vuitton is a serene and befitting venue for this leading luxury brand with a beautiful paved garden leading up to the two-storey building. Tel: +33 (0)4 94 55 40 36

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Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Saint-Tropez

February 5, 2016 by

Saint Tropez is heaven for foodies, with a huge array of restaurants covering almost every taste and budget within its midst.

But sometimes, even those who are regular visitors to this unique corner of the South of France need some inspiration into which restaurant to choose for a special evening out.

There are numerous recommendations available online, but one which caught the eye of the team here at St Tropez House was a ‘must-try’ list by culturetrip.com, a global platform showcasing the best art, culture, food and travel for every country in the world.

Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Saint-Tropez 1

Its’ top 10 restaurants for the best views, greatest company and finest dining experience is as follows:

  1. Table du Marché, 11 Rue des Commerçants +33 494 97 91 91

Described by the site as a ‘contemporary bistro’, the restaurant owned by celebrity chef Christophe Leroy is said to be hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. Menus start at €19.50 for two courses.

  1. Hôtel de la Ponche, 5 Rue des Remparts +33 494 97 09 29

The place to come for “fish soup, red mullet, lobster, cod … all honored in true Provençal fashion”. Not only is the food legendary, the restaurant is also seeped in history having welcomed many famous faces over the years such as Brigitte Bardot, Francois Sagan and Pablo Picasso.

  1. La Vague d’Or, La Résidence de la Pinède, Plage de Bouillabaisse +33 494 55 91 00

Arguably the finest restaurant in Saint Tropez which features in everyone’s top 10. The chef is three Michelin-star wizard Arnaud Doncele and the food, service and scenery is quite literally out of this world.

  1. Club 55, 43 Boulevard Patch, 83350 Ramatuelle, + 33 494 55 55 55

Another very famous restaurant which is located on the golden sands of Pampelonne Beach, approximately a ten minute drive from the centre of Saint Tropez.  It’s a favourite haunt for the jet set, and a wonderful place to while away the hours over a bottle of Rosé and plate of grilled fish on a summer’s day.

  1. L’Auberge des Maures, 4, Rue du Docteur Boutin, +33 494 97 01 50

This restaurant is one of the few that is open all year round, and is a wonderful place is retreat to on a winter’s evening for a delicious meal in front of an open fire. Only open for dinner, there is a set menu of three courses for €49.

  1. Sénéquier, Place aux Herbes, +33 494 97 00 90

An institution in Saint Tropez, this cafe with red branding has been a major part of port life since it opened in 1887. Patisseries are served all day, although the website does warn that visitors should not ‘expect too much change from a 50 note for coffee and cake for two’.

  1. Le Sporting, 42 Place des Lices, +33 494 970 065

Set in Place des Lices, the heart and soul of Saint Tropez, this authentic brasserie serves some great classics for reasonable prices, and is the perfect place from where to watch the world go round.

  1. Brasserie des Arts, 5 Place des Lices, +33 494 40 27 37

Situated in the same central square is this equally informal brasserie, which, according to the website, attracts a ‘hip and arty crowd’. A great place for brunch when you have been up all night.

  1. Rivea, Byblos Saint-Tropez, 27 avenue Foch, +33 4 94 56 68 20

Located within one of Saint Tropez’s most luxurious hotels, Byblos, Rivea offers an “extravagant fine dining” experience under the instruction of internationally renowned chef, Alain Ducasse.

  1. Le Kikouiou, Route de Bonne Terrasse, Ramatuelle, +33 494 79 83 94

Last but by no means least on the list is this hidden gem with views over the vineyards near Pampelonne Beach. The website describes it as “a welcome step back from the beach club bling” where you can find great salads, pizzas and grilled fish.

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Wine & Dine Tagged With: ,
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