Counted among ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’, Gassin pairs superlatively good looks with a fascinating heritage. Crowning a hilltop overlooking Saint Tropez Bay, this medieval village was once a refuge from marauding pirates. Today, raiding ships have given way to exclusive yachts. But romantic Gassin still attracts those seeking a boutique bolthole away from the Côte d’Azur crowds.
CULTURE
With its pastel-hued houses and narrow, cobbled lanes, Gassin is a quintessential Provence village. Discover over a thousand years of history as you walk its streets. From the 13th-century Moorish fort ramparts to the charming Galerie dei Barri, which houses a renowned British and American art collection.
WINE
Gaze out across the surrounding landscape from Gassin and you’ll see vineyards stretching in almost every direction. Take a tour of nearby wineries for an insight into this treasured craft – and a taste of revered Côte d’Azur vintages. But you needn’t leave the village to sample the region’s best wines. Almost every menu features bottles from local producers such as Minuty and Berdaud – the perfect accompaniment to sun-drenched Provencal cuisine.
BEACHES
With Riviera views at every turn, in Gassin you’re never far from golden sands. In nearby St Tropez, pull up a sun lounger for an afternoon of cocktail sipping and celebrity watching. Or swap flip-flops for walking shoes and follow trails through this rugged landscape. Much of the coast is protected, with countless rare and colourful flowers to look out for.
Leave the beaches behind for a day on the green at Gassin Golf and Country Club. This high-quality course promises a challenging game in beautiful surrounds.