Sainte-Maxime
This small town between the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and the Massif des Maures mountain range is perfectly situated as a cultural and leisure capital on the riviera: the mountains block the infamous Mistral wind, and the beach is one of the best in the region.
Sainte-Maxime and the Beach
Sainte-Maxime, like many of the other riviera towns, is known for its beach, however the beach here was recognized with Blue Flag status in 2008. The Blue Flag is an award given to beaches that meet strict eco-standards and is a much sought-after reward the world over. Water sports on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez are available, such as jet-skiing, water-skiing and scuba diving.
Culture and Tourism
Sainte-Maxime may not be as well-known as some of its neighbors, but some of the rich and famous have chosen to make it their home. The Swedish royal family, for instance, owns a villa called the Mirage, which is located in the center of Sainte-Maxime.
Sainte-Maxime is the perfect combination of beachside resort town and quaint provencal village, with daily markets, nightlife, casinos, pétanque, playgrounds, parks, tennis courts, skate parks, an 18-hole golf course overlooking the Saint-Tropez bay and even a BMX track. There is also an entertainment center, Le Carré Léon Gaumont, which boasts three cinemas, an auditorium and a library.
Terroir
Sainte-Maxime offers several trips for those of you interested in terroir, or the French idea linking culture and history to the land it comes from.
La Pierre-Plantée is a beautiful olive grove that sells award-winning olive oil. A free guided tour is available by appointment at 10am on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The Domaine de Beaucas is a vineyard just outside Sainte-Maxime?between this town and le Plan-de-la-Tour. It is opened for visits from 10am to 7pm daily, although in the winter it is closed to the public on Sundays.
