Gassin
Located on a steep hill, Gassin is known as one of “the most beautiful villages in France” and has an unrivalled panoramic view of the Golfe de St. Tropez.
Park your car below the village and take a wander through the peaceful streets. There’s not much to see except for traditional cottage residences and flower-pot lined cobbled lanes, but the views are fantastic and there are several restaurants and cafes with pavement terraces where you can sit and enjoy the panorama. The surrounding countryside is filled with vineyards, so it all looks incredibly lush and green.
If you like your wine, don’t miss Chateau Minuty which sits just below Gassin – it has a fantastic range of red, white and rose wines.
History & Culture in Gassin
Gassin, like the neighbouring village of Ramatuelle, was built as a hilltop refuge from the marauding bands of pirates who pillaged along the coast. There are a number of good restaurants with terraces where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Sights to see include the Galerie deï Barri, which exhibits a wide range of internationally renowned artists or young emerging talents. The village has also a beautiful church called La Chapelle Notre-Dame de Compassion located steps away from the narrowest street in the world, l’Androuno.
Things to do in Gassin
The Golf Club Saint Tropez is in Gassin, and offers an 18 hole, par 71 course set in countryside of hills, forest, vineyards and sea. It is relatively exclusive and therefore avoids the crowds you often find at other Riviera golf clubs. There is a golfing academy, an executive 9-hole course with driving range, and a spa and restaurant in the spacious, elegant clubhouse reminiscent of a fine Provencal farmhouse.
Take a tour of one of the 10 wine producing domaines including Minuty, Bertaud, Belieu and Pampelonne – and sample the lovely wines grown in the local vineyards that surround the town. If you’re interested in urban design or just like a pretty town, take a wander in the new town just below the village- it’s been awarded the title of ‘Best New Town in Europe’ for its design, which echoes but doesn’t mimic the medieval town above. For a great (if expensive) day out, head to the Saint Tropez Polo Club, and there’s also a theme park at Azur Park, with rides and a fair to keep the kids happy.
Restaurants in Gassin
Several highly-recommended restaurants such as Le Vieux Gassin, Le Carpaccio, Le Pescadou and La Verdoyante offer excellent food in exceedingly pretty surroundings. Villa Belrose has a much-coveted Michelin star, while those who are Michelin star hunting should splash out and head to Saint Tropez and the stunning Vague d’Or, which has a spectacular 3 stars. For those wanting a more simple, rustic meal, head to La Ciboulette for a decent pizza with a fantastic view, or to a family-run, friendly French restaurant Les Sarments.