In summertimes families, couples, and groups flock to the Mediterranean to enjoy their dream holiday. While Ibza and Mykonos tend to be the top islands to visit, there is one place that everyone wants to visit, the beautiful French Riviera village of Saint Tropez.
Saint Tropez is famous globally for its busy port, celebrities, parties, and venues, but it hasn’t always had this story tale reputation, in fact it was once a small fishing village.
A Rich History
This beautiful village has a rich history, wrapped in traditions, culture, and art. While many tourists stay within the port area, Saint Tropez has numerous hidden treasures that tells a story of history, from the sixteenth century church with famous bell tower to the citadel and home of the Maritime Museum.
It wasn’t until the late nineteenth and early twentieth century that Saint Tropez turned from a quiet seaside village to attracting writers and painters. The tiny harbour, abundance of natural light, and spectacular landscapes provided inspiration. Over the years, this village has inspired stories and paintings
Brigitte Bardot
It was in 1956 that the film “And God Created Woman” was filmed on the beach in Pampelonne, starring French actress Brigitte Bardot. This really established the villages reputation throughout the world. The film was a great success, sending this small village to international fame.
After the film, people arrived in the village for holidays, some invested and purchased villas, and it soon became a popular Mediterranean holiday town, attracting French and international celebrities, including Mick Jagger, who married his first wife in Saint Tropez in 1971.
Keeping the Culture Alive
While over the years, Saint Tropez has become a hot spot for holiday makers, there are legendary places that they maintain, holding onto their rich history and culture. This includes their cuisine, where restaurants serve authentic dishes, such as bouillabaisse, ratatouille, and mouthwatering pastries, along with a fantastic selection of local wines.
Saint Tropez Today
Today, Saint Tropez boats luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques, and an abundance of super yachts. While associated with extravagance, it is important to remember that it offers an enchanting coastline where you can enjoy an authentic meal, a glass of local wine, and explore a host of heritage sites, galleries, and museums. It offers the opportunity to be seen where celebrities visit, while soaking up the history and culture of this beautiful fishing village.
Conclusion
Saint Tropez isn’t only for the rich and famous, it offers a rich history with a wide selection of cultural experiences to enjoy. Today, it welcomes couples, families, and groups, along with celebrities who want to experience a true and authentic Mediterranean holiday experience. If you want to add an added touch of history and culture to your Saint Tropez holiday, contact Cooking Classes in Provence today and book your private in-home cooking class with a professional and local chef.