Saint-Tropez

From ArticleWorld

Saint-Tropez , also sometimes written as St. Tropez, is a commune located in the Department of Var in the South of France. A commune is considered a metropolitan area, including the city and all of its outlying villages.

Saint-Tropez, part of the famous French Riviera, is located on the Cote d’Azur along the shore of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez.

History

Saint-Tropez has a long history dating back to the time when it was named. There is a legend that says that a martyr named St. Tropes was beheaded and later found washed up on the shores of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez and thus, the area was eventually named after him.

The area also played an integral role during the World War II Operation Dragoon – the South of France site where the Allied invasion landed. Saint-Tropez is most well known however, for its history of courting international fashion, film, and jet set icons such as Brigitte Bardot. She is recognized as the person who put Saint Tropez on the map of fame.

Life in Saint-Tropez

The seaside village of Saint-Tropez overflows with medieval style architecture and hilltop villas that look out over the sea.

Saint-Tropez is a haven for people watchers and affords a peek into the life of the rich and famous. On any given day it’s possible to see beautiful people dressed in chic designer fashions aboard sleek yachts. On the streets, it’s a fashion show of sports cars as the newest models parade the streets.

Terrace cafes line the street facing the Golfe de Saint-Tropez. At any time, night or day, it is possible to sit in a cafe with a drink and see or be seen. Saint Tropez’s allure doesn’t end at the beach or in the cafes though, with its vibrant night life, glamorous parties, and trendy nightclubs.

Beaches

The most popular beaches in Saint-Tropez are located in the commune of Ramatuelle located on the Baie de Pampelonne. This five kilometer strip offers public and private beaches complete with beach huts and cafes.

The beaches of Saint-Tropez offer something for every beachgoer, whether sunbathing, sports, dining, or people-watching. There are a variety of water-sports both non-motorized and motorized including: kayaking and canoeing, windsurfing, power-boating, and riding jet skis. An abundance of restaurants and cafes provide a relaxing venue at the end of the day to engage in people-watching.