Fancy spending a weekend on the French Riviera? With its Mediterranean coastline, natural landscapes and charming villages, Saint-Raphaël is one of the must-see destinations in the south of France.
Located between Cannes and Saint-Tropez, the town offers the chance to enjoy both the coastline and the Estérel mountains. Within just a few kilometres, you can go from wild beaches and coves to hiking trails or a bustling town centre.
Whether you’re walking the coastal path, exploring the calanques or simply strolling through the old town, Saint-Raphaël offers a wonderful variety of activities to help you make the most of the French Riviera over a weekend.
Saint-Raphaël, a unique natural setting on the French Riviera
The Estérel massif is one of the most striking landscapes on the French Riviera. This volcanic mountain range is easily recognisable by its red rocks, which plunge straight into the Mediterranean.
Designated as a Natura 2000 site, this unspoilt area is easy to explore on foot, by bike or even on horseback. There are numerous paths leading to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea and the coastline.
Walks in the Estérel alternate between pine forests, rugged terrain and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. It is one of the best places in the region to enjoy unspoilt natural surroundings whilst remaining close to the coast.
The coastal path: a must-do walk in Saint-Raphaël
Among the best-known walks in Saint-Raphaël, the coastal path remains a firm favourite. The route starts at Santa Lucia harbour and follows the coast to Camp Long beach.
The path runs alongside the sea and passes through several landscapes typical of the region: rocky coves, maritime pines and small beaches. Along the way, there are numerous views of the Mediterranean.
One of the most memorable sights is the view of Île d’Or, a small rocky islet off the coast that has become one of the symbols of the coastline.
To continue your exploration, the Corniche d’Or road then takes you along the coast for nearly 40 kilometres. This scenic route crosses the Estérel massif and offers stunning views of cliffs and rocky coves.
Explore the unspoilt coves around Saint-Raphaël
The coastline around Saint-Raphaël offers a wide variety of landscapes. It features everything from family-friendly beaches to more secluded coves, accessible either on foot or by sea.
The Calanque des Anglais is one of the most impressive sites in the area. Its landscape is characterised by red pebbles and Mediterranean vegetation that slopes down to the sea.
The coastline around Saint-Raphaël stretches for around 36 kilometres and boasts nearly 28 beaches. This variety means you can experience very different atmospheres in just a few minutes.
For a different perspective on these landscapes, a catamaran cruise through the Estérel’s rocky coves is also a wonderful experience. Sailing between the red cliffs and the turquoise waters allows you to discover the full beauty of the coastline from the sea.
Stroll through the old town of Saint-Raphaël
The historic centre of Saint-Raphaël is also well worth a stroll. The old town is made up of narrow streets, bustling squares and markets that offer a glimpse of the town’s Mediterranean atmosphere.
The daily market is one of the liveliest spots in the town centre. You’ll find flowers, fruit, vegetables and local specialities there. It’s a great place to discover local produce and soak up the region’s traditional atmosphere.
You simply cannot miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-Victoire, situated near the Old Port. Built in the late 19th century in the Neo-Byzantine style, it is now one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Construction began in 1883 and the building was inaugurated in 1887.
The basilica overlooks the town centre and is one of Saint-Raphaël’s most recognisable buildings. A few streets away stands the former medieval church of Saint-Raphaël, which now forms part of the town’s archaeological museum.
With its historic buildings, markets and outdoor cafés, the old town offers a chance to discover a different side of Saint-Raphaël – one that is more historic and more local.
Le Touring: the perfect place to extend your stay on the French Riviera
Overlooking the Old Port of Saint-Raphaël, Le Touring Boutique Hotel perfectly embodies the spirit of the French Riviera. The hotel has ten rooms and suites and offers an elegant atmosphere, with unobstructed views of the Mediterranean.
Designed as a house opening out onto the sea, the property comprises a number of spaces that allow guests to make the most of their stay in the region.
Café Touring, situated opposite the harbour, serves French cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. The Japanese restaurant Nami offers something a little different, with a menu inspired by Japanese cuisine.
Finally, the Ring Bar, located on the rooftop, offers sea views in a more relaxed atmosphere.
With its seaside setting, fine dining and Mediterranean atmosphere, Le Touring is the perfect place to explore Saint-Raphaël and enjoy a weekend on the French Riviera.
