When you mention holidays by the sea on the sun-soaked Côte d’Azur, the favourite seaside resort for every kind of holidaymaker quickly crops up: Saint-Raphaël. In addition to its amazing setting swathed in hues of blue, green and ochre, this flagship destination has much more to offer than just its breathtaking natural landscape. Together, let’s discover the many different facets that will have you fall even more in love with this gem of the Var!
1. Stroll around the town
This might seem obvious, but we sometimes tend to forget that there’s no better way to get to know a town than strolling through its streets, guided by serendipity and whatever inspires us! As you wander through the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll come across the Archaeological Museum, the San Rafeu Tower, the neo-Byzantine Basilica of Our Lady and even some urban art if you follow the street art trail. There really is something for everyone at Saint-Raphaël!
2. Take in the sights at the Esterel Massif
Stunning is probably the best way to describe this unique mountain range. In fact, before the formation of the Mediterranean, the Esterel was part of Africa that then broke away. This may explain the presence of the red rock that is so characteristic of the site. It’s the perfect place to hike or cycle in a sublime setting between land and sea. Quite simply magical!
3. Walk in wonder along the coastal path
Keeping to the hiking theme, the next unmissable spot in Saint-Raphaël is the coastal path. This trail stretches 12 km and is accessible to all, taking you from Port Saint-Lucia to Agay and revealing the beauty of the Var coastline with all its creeks and beaches. As you wander along, you’ll be treated to the Mediterranean on one side and the Esterel Massif on the other. Dreamy! Please note that you’ll need good walking shoes to enjoy the experience safely!
4. Take it easy on the beaches of Saint-Raphaël
With its 36 kilometres of coastline, there are plenty of possibilities for lazing around beside the water! When you’re ready with your towels and everything else you need for a pleasant day at the beach, the shores of Saint-Raphaël boast a vast choice of sandy spots for you and your family or your other half. It won’t be easy to choose between pebbles and sand, a secluded cove or small inlet, but you can change your seaside setting whenever you wish (every day if you like!) and that’s what we love most! If you’re looking for a beach where you can have a safe swim with your family, opt for the beaches of Le Veillat, Beaurivage, Le Dramont or Agay, where there are lifeguards.
5. Meander through the town’s gardens
A relaxing dose of greenery is more than welcome in the height of summer. There are two places in Saint-Raphaël that are ideal for this: the Bonaparte garden and the Île Verte garden. With its playgrounds, the first, located by the old port, is a treat for little ones, while the second is a more intimate botanical garden teeming with flowers and a variety of Mediterranean vegetation. The perfect setting for a romantic interlude!
6. Enjoy learning on a museum visit
Your holiday doesn’t have to be a break from learning and culture! Museum visits are always appreciated by holidaymakers big and small. To satisfy everyone’s thirst for knowledge, head for the Museum of Prehistory and Underwater Archaeology. Housed in a former presbytery, it exhibits a collection of objects found during underwater archaeological excavations and has a section dedicated to the Palaeolithic, with remains that have been found in the region. On a completely different note, why not visit the Louis de Funès Museum, which celebrates the life and work of France’s favourite actor!
7. Take in some fresh air on a boat trip
The next activity will appeal to landlubbers who are finally ready to take to the sea! And indeed, what could be better than a boat trip to admire the beauty of the Var coastline from the sea as the breeze rustles your hair? Experienced sailors can rent a boat, coast the Mediterranean to their heart’s content and succumb to the indescribable feeling of freedom that only sailing can bring! And for novices without a boating licence? Simply select a circuit that appeals and let the captain take charge. Whatever the case, you’ll be filled with wonder – take our seafaring word for it!
8. Dive in to discover the beauty of the seabed
Saint-Raphaël can be discovered on dry land... but underwater too! You’ll find countless diving spots along the coastline and whether you are a beginner, a seasoned diver or a real expert, this is an activity open to all! At the foot of the Esterel Massif, you’ll see some incredible aquatic fauna and flora which find a refuge of choice in its rocky cavities. For extreme adventurers, there are numerous wrecks from the Second World War in the shallows, just waiting to be explored. So, time to reach for your flippers!
9. A prime abode for your getaway in the Var!
When it comes to choosing a pied-à-terre in Saint-Raphaël, take a look at our Douce Quiétude residence! To combine comfort, space and prestige, nothing can beat our tastefully and elegantly decorated apartments. On-site facilities include a private pool for residents only, a spa, a lobby bar and underground parking. Your dream holiday in the Var starts at the Douce Quiétude residence!
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