10 things to do in Saint-Raphaël

It's easy to enjoy the gentler side of life on the 29 beaches of Saint-Raphaël. The coastline stretches out over 36 km, and each beach has its own distinct personality. Bathed by the Mediterranean, some of the beaches are sandy, and others are shingle. They are home to a number of water sports: fishing, sailing, diving or simply paddling along the water's edge.

Our favorites? The beaches of Baumette cove, for its tranquillity, Maubois cove for its shingle and red rocks that contrast beautifully with the turquoise waters and pine trees, Camp-Long with its gentle waters, perfect for children and for exploring the seabed, and the very secluded Fournas Cove.

Admire the Île d'Or from Cape Dramont (Cap Dramont), one of the most well-known views of Saint-Raphaël. Around 200 meters in front of you stands the unassailable square tower of the Île d'Or, which reputedly inspired 'Hergé's Adventures of Tintin' on the Black Island. As this is a private island, no visitors are allowed; however, observation from afar is more than enough to awaken dreams and poetic musings.

The cape is a protected natural area and, as well as the characteristic rhyolite of the Massif de l'Esterel, it also displays a number of examples of blue rock. The view over the Bay of Agay (Baie d'Agay) and the charming Poussaiï fishing harbor is also well worth the visit.

The Cornisa de Oro (literally, golden coast road), a magnificent walk along the region's coastline, owes its name to the golden reflections that envelop the rocks along the route. Carved into the Massif de l'Esterel, the road was opened at the beginning of the 1900s by the Touring Club de France and links the seaside resort of Saint-Raphaël to Cannes.

It meanders along the steep cliffs and inclines that plunge directly into the emerald sea, and offers privileged access here and there to secluded little coves. Along the way, try to spot Calanque d'Athénor, a charming little beach on the side of the mountain.

The Romanesque church of Saint-Rafeu, dedicated to the Archangel Raphael, is a historical and architectural treasure cherished by the town. The ancient village that, over the centuries, became the Saint-Raphaël that we know today was originally centered around the religious building. Although its current form dates from the 12th and 13th centuries, it was preceded by other places of worship and displays, in particular, building techniques from the Carolingian era.

Fortified, then flanked by a watchtower and a bell tower, it has a wonderful view across the bay. Today, the presbytery is home to the town's prehistoric museum and a superb collection of amphora, where you can admire some absolutely stunning Carolingian bas-reliefs. An unmissable visit for culture lovers.

Get back to nature in the Bonaparte Garden (jardin Bonaparte), an unusual English landscape garden. It has been laid out on top of a large carpark and is home to palm trees, cacti and watering holes, offering you a lovely moment of coolness. This public park, overlooking the town, stretches out over 20,000 square meters and juts out toward the sea like a botanical ship's bow. Curved wooden canopies cover the terraces, letting the light filter through and giving them an uncluttered and modern feel.

This is the perfect place to have lunch beneath a tree, spend some time reading on a bench, take a lovers' stroll hand in hand or spend some time with the kids in one of the many play neighborhoods. A special mention for the view over the old harbor and the bay.

Shopping at the market perfectly showcases Provence. In Saint-Raphaël, happiness is tenfold thanks to the different markets held every day of the week, each with its own ambience and characteristics. At Place Victor Hugo, Place de la République and Place Gianetti, you'll find many local specialties from regional producers.

In the old harbor, buy some freshly caught fish and exchange a few words with the fishermen; at Place Lamartine, discover the local crafts (pottery, natural soaps) and a large number of textiles, such as the well-known foutas (delicately woven towels). And in the summer, make the most of the cool evenings by doing some shopping on the Promenade de Lattre de Tassigny.

Discover the seabed by making the most of your trip and taking your first dive. Or, if you're already a diver, come and perfect your skills. The first diving equipment was actually invented here, and it is also where the first diving club was founded – yet another reason to dive in.

The wild coves and protective inlets that form its seafront are filled with blossoming coral – particularly near the island Le Lion de Mer. It is also fascinating to observe Alcyonacea, rock lobsters and nudibranchs in their natural environment. Accompanied by experienced instructors, put on your wetsuit and prepare to be amazed.

Climbing to the top of the San Rafeu Tower, the emblem of Saint-Raphaël, offers a spectacular 360º panoramic view across the town, the Massif de l'Esterel, the Étangs de Villepey (Villepey lakes), the Rocher de Roquebrune (Roquebrune rock) and Saint-Tropez.

So take your courage in both hands and climb the 129 steps to the top where, perched 25 m above sea level, you can get an even better view of the landscape, as well as of the wrought-iron bell tower added in 1881, and the 100 kg bell that rings every hour. At the end of the day, there's nothing more romantic than watching the sun set as it bathes the coastline in a spectacular golden light.

Play golf and make the most of Saint-Raphaël's famous greens to perfect your swing alongside amateurs and pros from all over. The town has no fewer than 4 golf courses of 9 or 18 holes, and provides a unique experience in a unique setting.

Looking out over the Mediterranean, le Golf de Cap Estérel is a hilly course with a few difficulties, allowing beginners to have a go. The Golf de l'Estérel is in a lush setting, peppered with umbrella pine trees and renowned for its 15th hole, nicknamed 'le Lac des Dames' (the ladies' lake). The Golf Bluegreen Académie de l’Estérel is characterized by its many bunkers and obstacles, while the Golf de Valescure is the ideal place to perfect your game.

Provençal water jousting is an unmissable event, steeped in folklore, that promises a colorful show. This sporting event saw its beginnings during the Middle Ages and, according to some sources, dates back to ancient Egypt. The regional version sees 2 opponents, each on their own boat, go up against each other. From a platform on the stern of a boat called a 'teinteine', each opponent tries to make the other fall into the water.

This dangerous activity, needing flexibility, strength and balance, can be enjoyed from Saint-Raphaël harbor, among a general sense of euphoria. Water jousting is an ancient tradition that has become a sport for enthusiasts and takes place from May to September. This is a novel way to fill summer days, all while discovering a new side of the local culture.