Saint-Raphaël, French Riviera, France
Saint-Raphaël is a picturesque seaside town located on the French Riviera, right next to the historic town of Frejus. It is a highly popular seaside resort, renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches and its proximity to the dramatic landscapes of the Esterel Massif. The town also boasts charming residential areas like Boulouris-sur-Mer, offering a quieter escape.
The eastern part of the town, including areas like Le Dramont and Agay, serves as a gateway to the spectacular Esterel Massif. This is where the landscape transforms from azure sea and golden beaches to the amazing sight of deep-red volcanic rocks plunging directly into the turquoise waters. This unique combination of a vibrant coastal resort and rugged natural beauty makes Saint-Raphaël an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Parking in Saint-Raphaël
Finding a convenient place to park in Saint-Raphaël's bustling town center is made easy by the presence of a well-located underground parking facility. This option allows you to secure a spot quickly and begin your exploration without delay.
The town has a very nice underground parking lot (Parking Bonaparte - P; GPS: 43.422176, 6.765761), located just at the coast. We suggest to park here as it is very convenient.
The parking lot is modern and spacious, providing a stress-free starting point for your visit. It's ideally located for accessing the main promenade and the historic town center on foot.
The walking tour
Above the Parking Bonaparte, you will find a very nice boulevard (GPS: 43.422076, 6.763726) where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy spectacular views of the sea and the stunning coastline (A; GPS: 43.422076, 6.763726). As you walk, you can see the expansive beaches and the bustling marina of Saint-Raphaël (B; GPS: 43.415180, 6.776290) in the distance. We once had the fascinating experience of watching a demonstration of water bombers here. Canadair CL-415 SuperScoopers (amphibious aircrafts) were dropping water - it was really very spectacular. These powerful aircrafts are used by the Sécurité Civile (the French government's civil defense agency) to combat forest fires, and seeing them in action is a memorable sight.
The town's main streets lead from the coast to its historic landmarks. The stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Victoire (C; GPS: 43.422637, 6.766999) is located just a short walk from the coast. Its striking Romanesque-Byzantine architecture makes it a prominent feature of the town’s skyline. In the neighboring streets, you can find many boutiques and shops.
For a taste of the local lifestyle, the Promenade Rene Coty is a must-visit, full of bustling cafes and restaurants (D; GPS: 43.421695, 6.768125). This lively promenade is perfect for enjoying a meal or a drink while watching the world go by. In the old town you can find an interesting archaeological museum (E; GPS: 43.425974, 6.769224) that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history, including its Roman past as part of the ancient city of Frejus.
Massif de l'Esterel
When you try to drive D559 local road along the coast in the direction of Cannes, after a few kilometers you will see very interesting views of the Esterel Massif. Massif de l'Esterel is a beautiful Mediterranean mountain range between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes. The rocks are volcanic in origin and are composed primarily of porphyry. As a result, they have a beautiful color in various shades of red. There are also many oak forests in the mountain range.
A great way to experience the massif is to stop in Le Dramont, and then let's go to the beach and rest there for a longer while admiring the sea and red rocks of Esterel Massif. We can also drive up to the massif and go hiking. There are plenty of well-marked hiking trails suitable for all levels, offering incredible viewpoints and a chance to immerse yourself in this unique natural environment.
Gastronomy in Saint-Raphaël
Saint-Raphaël's location on the Mediterranean coast ensures a rich and diverse culinary scene, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and classic Provençal flavors. The town offers a wide array of dining experiences, from casual beachside cafes to elegant restaurants in the city center.
What to Try?
- Fresh Seafood: The port is a hub for fresh catches. Look for local dishes featuring grilled fish, mussels, and clams.
- Soupe de Poissons: A traditional Provençal fish soup, often served with croutons, rouille (a garlic and saffron mayonnaise), and grated cheese.
- Bouillabaisse: While originally from Marseille, this famous fish stew can often be found in upscale restaurants along the coast.
- Tarte Tropézienne: This famous sweet brioche filled with cream is a dessert from nearby Saint-Tropez that has become a staple of the entire region.
Where to Eat?
The Promenade Rene Coty is an excellent place to find cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating and sea views. The old town also has a number of charming, more traditional restaurants tucked away in its narrow streets, offering a more intimate dining experience.
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