Saint Raphaël
Saint Raphaël is part of the urban district of Draguignan and is a coastal community in the department of Var. Together with Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël is also known as Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël. The pedestrian boulevards of these two coastal towns are overlapping. There are opportunities to indulge in wining and dining at one of the many restaurants, while enjoying the beautiful views. Also, there are numerous shops. Saint Raphaël offers a diverse and typical environment for an unforgettable holiday. The combination of golden beaches and pebble beaches, quiet coves, unspoilt nature and all kinds of modern amenities makes Saint-Raphaël a popular holiday destination on the Côte d’Azur.
Activities in Saint-Raphaël
In the town centre of Saint-Raphaël where all activities take place, you will find an array of shops to enjoy a great day of shopping. Just a few hundred metres from the centre and easily reachable on foot, you can find the Santa Lucia harbour. This is the third biggest marina of the Côte d’Azur. Enjoy a walk along the two kilometre quay with shops and restaurants overlooking luxurious boats. The more adamant hiker should, by all means, walk the astonishing footpath along the coast. This well signposted 8.5 km hiking trail starts at the Santa Lucia harbour. After about 2.5 hours, the trip will end near the lighthouse of Baumette. From here, one can travel back by bus (number 8) or train.
Fréjus
Fréjus is a picturesque seaside town with a tranquil and beautiful harbour as a central element. Fréjus is an old Roman town where remains of that era can still be found, such as the amphitheatre and an aqueduct. As you approach Saint-Raphaël, you will find yourself in a more lively and vibrant atmosphere. While Fréjus offers more tranquillity, Saint-Raphaël is more of a nightlife environment, full of hustle and bustle. Both seaside towns are highly recommended and certainly worth visiting.
Tips Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël
- Local markets: there are many things to discover in the narrow streets of the old town centre. Every day, there is a typical Provençal flower and vegetable market. The market in Fréjus is characterised by various local produce, regional products, clothing, souvenirs, etc.
- Water sports: if you really adore the water, you can enjoy one of the many water sports, which include diving. At several locations, even diving for wrecks is possible. Other popular water sports include water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, sea kayaking and sport fishing.
- Wine tastings: Fréjus has a number of great wine tastings. We, for instance, recommend Chateau Paquette. The patrons are extremely friendly and they have the most tastiest wines.
- Nature: Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël certainly have opportunities for nature lovers. You can visit and enjoy the Base Nature François Léotard, where you can totally relax during a walk or bike ride. The Parc Areca Jardin Botanique is a natural reserve that is very suitable for children. Or take a romantic evening stroll along the Fréjus-Saint-Raphaël coastline. There is something for everyone.
- Vistas: Jardin Bonaparte in Saint-Raphaël is an excellent place for taking a breather and enjoying the magnificent view. Also you can go for a ride on the Ferris wheel. You will be looking out over the coast and sea. Also the Fréjus harbour is highly recommended. In the evening it is the ideal place to watch the sunset from a terrace.
- Food and drink: in Fréjus you can relish an ice-cream at La Passerelle. This dairy cream parlour makes artisanal ice-cream in any flavour you could possibly think of!
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