Saint Raphaël
Traditional French beach resort, close to the town of Fréjus
At the beginning of the 20th century Saint Raphaël was a grand and glamorous resort that was sadly blitzed during the Second World War, destroying many of the Belle Époque buildings, so the atmosphere of the town is not exactly Saint Tropez.
The jet-setters loss is the family holidaymakers gain, as it's now far more affordable.
Situated in the Var department in the region called Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, it remains an important sailing centre and is also renowned for its diving schools. Saint Raphaël hosts a daily food market, and arts and crafts stalls are on display during the summer.
There are a number (36 in total) of small beaches in the area, and plenty of walking trails and other activities in the countryside behind the town.
Jump to
- History & Culture in Saint-Raphael
- Sights & Attractions in Saint-Raphael
- Beaches in Saint-Raphael
- Events in Saint-Raphael
- Things to do in Saint-Raphael
- Cycling in Saint-Raphael
- Hiking in Saint-Raphael
- Yachts & Sailing in Saint-Raphael
- Watersports in Saint-Raphael
- Families in Saint-Raphael
- Nightlife in Saint-Raphael
- Where to stay in Saint-Raphael
- Villas in Saint-Raphael
- Holidays Rentals in Saint-Raphael
- Campsites in Saint-Raphael
- How to get to Saint-Raphael
History & Culture in Saint-Raphael
Saint Raphaël is rich in history, dating back to its ancient past as a seaside resort for the Romans. You can learn all about the local area in the Museum of Prehistory and Underwater Archaeology, located in the San Rafeu church.
In 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte and his forces arrived by ship from Egypt, prior to his coup d'état in Paris, and landed at a fishing village that was the commune of Fréjus Saint-Raphaël.
The coastal rail link between Saint-Raphaël and Nice passes over a viaduct that sits right on the shoreline at Anthéor. These tracks were of strategic importance to forces during World War II for supplying materials to units in France. Three separate air raids by English air forces were carried out on the viaduct between September 1943 and February 1944, involving a total of 31 Lancaster bombers operating some 700 miles from base. All the raids failed in their objective and the rail link was not severed.
In the latter half of the 19th century the town developed into a seaside resort popular with artists, sportsmen and women, and politicians, who all flocked there for the beneficial climate.
Sights & Attractions in Saint-Raphael
In addition to his 1799 stopover, Napoleon Bonaparte also stopped here on his way into exile on the island of Elba and there's a small memorial in the port.
A walk around the town will reveal some stunning buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, one of the most spectacular being the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire - a 'must see' if you are in St Raphael.
The neighbouring town of Fréjus is renowned for its Roman ruins and is well worth a visit.
Sights in Saint-Raphael
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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
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Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael
Les Calanques de l'Esterel are rocky inlets and coves that expand from Saint-Raphael to Mandelieu-la-Napoule and drop steeply into the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
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Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus
Dating back to the 5th century when the baptistery was built makes it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. At this ancient, Merovingian style baptistery you can still see a 5th century baptismal basin for full immersion, as well as Roman columns.
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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
This beautiful church was built as part of the plans by Mayor Felix Martin to "transform" St Raphael into a more attractive town for people to live in and tourist resort. Abbot Bernard commissioned the project to architect Pierre Aublé.
Beaches in Saint-Raphael
With numerous beaches along the St Raphaël coast you will not be short of places to sunbathe, swim, snorkel and explore the rockpools and cliffs.
The bay of St Raphaël and the marine nature reserve of Agay also have a host of dive sites and there are various dive schools you can use as a great way to explore the area further.
Beaches in Cannes
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Corniche Esterel Beach
The stretch of coast between St Raphael and Cannes is known as the Corniche Esterel. There are many small beaches and coves along this route, some better than others.
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Plage des Rochers Beach, Cannes - La Bocca
This series of soft sand beaches just west of Cannes have some beautiful red rocky outcrops providing some good snorkelling opportunities and a gorgeous view across the Bay of Cannes to the Esterel Mountains.
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Plage du Midi Beach
This long and thin stretch of white sand beach runs the length of the Boulevard du Midi from the parking at the Vieux Port towards Cannes la Bocca.
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Plage du Casino Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Clean and well maintained but free to use. No umbrellas, chairs or sun loungers are provided but you can pick your spot to lay down your towel for the day.
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Plage Mace Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Enjoy the calm waters and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach area.
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Ile Sainte Marguerite Beach
Ile Sainte Marguerite may not have ice cream shops and parasols all over the place but it has far more character and hidden charms than your average beach, with its bright blue water, fragrant forests, cool breezes, and smugglers coves.
Events in Saint-Raphael
Events in Saint-Raphael
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International Air Festival, Fréjus
120 hectares of aerial ballets, 30,000 visitors, 100 kite flyers, 18 countries, free workshops, and a hot air balloon area.
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Roc d'Azur mountain bike event, Fréjus
The number one mountain bike event in the world, there are a large number of courses on offer, from those especially tailored for children and families, to relay races or tough long trials, and even a triathlon.
Things to do in Saint-Raphael
With so many beautiful place to visit, why not take a boat trip? There are many that can take you to St Tropez for the day, or perhaps the Island of Sainte-Marguerite, or even just a sight seeing trip along the coastal cliffs and caves.
With numerous beaches along the St Raphaël coast you will not be short of places to sunbathe, swim, snorkel and explore.
If you are into golf or tennis, or perhaps both, then you are in luck as there is a club for both in St Raphaël, situated just north of the town - Valescure Golf and Tennis Club.
Things To Do in Saint-Raphael
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Aventure Sous Marine Diving School, Saint Raphael
Since 1994, the team at this diving school have been located in Saint Raphael in the Var department.
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
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Fishing Trip
Sea fishing trip on a boat with a professional guide. Introduction to the techniques of fishing in the mediterranean sea in a friendly and enthusiastic atmosphere.
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Valescure Tennis Club, Saint Raphael
Great tennis facilities in a superb setting and with the added bonus of being joined to a prestigious golf club.
Cycling in Saint-Raphael
Cycling Routes in Cannes
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Cannes to Saint Raphael
This intermediate cycle offers a wonderful contrast of colours as you pass the reds and ochres of the Esterel rock on one side and rippling azur waters of the Mediterranean coastline on the other. A local favourite, you won't be the only one on the road if you ride during the summer or on weekends.
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Cannes to Nice via Antibes
Leaving Cannes and travelling east along the coast allows you to enjoy the Cap de la Croisette just outside of the centre of Cannes as well as the towns, villages and seaside resorts that are scattered along the Cote d'Azur. A good train service ensures that your journey does not need to be a return, but merely a one way trip.
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Antibes to Saint Raphael Cycling Route
There is no other way to discover the stunning coast of the Cote d’Azur than by bike. This bike ride is not the most challenging, as no serious hills are conquered, but it is a stunning way to explore the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur.
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Hiking in Saint-Raphael
Walking Routes in Cannes
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Circuit de l'Esquillon
Steep cliffs and secret beaches line the coast around Col de l'Esquillon. This walk takes you up into the hills where you can gaze at the surrounding landscape with uninterrupted views of the coast and the hills inland.
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Mont-Saint-Martin
Nestled in the large forested valleys just a short drive from Cannes lie amazing trails. These protected trails sit in an area that combine large orange and red rock towers, clear rivers, multiple species of wildlife and fragrant Mediterranean scents, all together resulting in a breathtaking place to be.
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Crete des Grues
Nestled in the alpine foothills of Grasse, this walk takes you from the coast to the top of Grosses Grues 440m. Climbing through vegetation, along rivers, over volcanic formations and past large oak trees, this walk has a lot to offer someone wanting a taste of the outdoors.
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Circuit de l'Aiguille
A short walk with a small climb taking in the best the bay has to offer. Towering red rocks, deep vegetation and crashing blue waves make this walk a must for all the family.
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Circuit du Grand Duc
Walk amongst wild Mimosa which lights up the hillside and remains a symbol of the French Riviera. It is the only flower that brings its brilliant colours to the middle of winter. Not only visible in winter, its scent travels the valley on a hot summers day.
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Circuit de Peygros
Hike up to the watch tower at 301m, used for the protection against forest fires in the summer months. The route runs mostly on trails in the Peygros Forest where the abundance of Pine allowed the 18th century villagers to fund the construction of the Parish Church of Auribeau.
Yachts & Sailing in Saint-Raphael
Watersports in Saint-Raphael
Watersports in Saint-Raphael
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Aventure Sous Marine Diving School, Saint Raphael
Since 1994, the team at this diving school have been located in Saint Raphael in the Var department.
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
Families in Saint-Raphael
Nightlife in Saint-Raphael
Saint Raphaël is overwhelmingly a family resort destination, so it's not a wildly exciting place at night. There's the Casino Barrière de St-Raphaël if you fancy a gamble, or the young crowd can be found at La Reserve Club or Coco Club.
Where to stay in Saint-Raphael
There are plenty of two and three star hotels in the town offering good value accommodation. Behind St Raphaël are several campsites, catering for families and the budget traveller.
Villas in Saint-Raphael
Villas in Saint-Raphael
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Thea Villa, Agay
Exceptional villa "feet in the water" to rent with view on the sea and on the red rocks of the Esterel, between Saint Raphael, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
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Hsud0041 Villa, Les Adrets-de-l´Esterel
In the town of Adrets, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, comfortable new villa situated on a 3000m² terraced plot with a beautiful sea view.
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Hsud0019 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
Villa 8km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", luxurious property with an enclosed park of 1 hectare.
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Hsud0037 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
8 km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 3000 m2.
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Hsud0050 Villa
8 km from Mandelieu, 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa with a magnificent sea view and "Red rocks" located on a Mediterranean garden of 1500 m².
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Hsud0036 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
8 km from Mandelieu, in a beautiful private and secure estate, 20 minutes from the beaches. In the commune of St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", magnificent renovated villa on 3300 m² of land.
Holidays Rentals in Saint-Raphael
Holiday Rentals in Saint-Raphael
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Thea Villa, Agay
Exceptional villa "feet in the water" to rent with view on the sea and on the red rocks of the Esterel, between Saint Raphael, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
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Hsud0041 Villa, Les Adrets-de-l´Esterel
In the town of Adrets, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, comfortable new villa situated on a 3000m² terraced plot with a beautiful sea view.
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Hsud0050 Villa
8 km from Mandelieu, 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa with a magnificent sea view and "Red rocks" located on a Mediterranean garden of 1500 m².
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Hsud0036 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
8 km from Mandelieu, in a beautiful private and secure estate, 20 minutes from the beaches. In the commune of St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", magnificent renovated villa on 3300 m² of land.
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Hsud0037 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
8 km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 3000 m2.
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Hsud0019 Villa, Saint-Jean-de-l'Esterel
Villa 8km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", luxurious property with an enclosed park of 1 hectare.
Campsites in Saint-Raphael
How to get to Saint-Raphael
Located halfway between Cannes and Saint Tropez, San-Raphaël lies is on the main trainline that runs along the Riviera from Italy to Marseilles, and also connects the South of France to Paris.
It's also the train station you would have to stop at to get on one of the buses or boats that run to Saint Tropez.
If driving, Saint Raphaël is very accessible as it's just off the A8 motorway, whilst buses connect here for Nice, Saint Tropez and other Riviera towns.
Transfers for Cannes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Loisirs Animations Transfers
For Cannes and the surrounding areas, Loisirs Animations offers excursions by minibus or coach to help you discover the stunning Provence surroundings. They also offer transfers from Nice airport in their comfortable minibuses that seat up to eight passengers.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.