Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is one of the Mediterranean’s leading international sailing and yachting events. Every year, around 250 yachts gather in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, bringing together classic yachts, some more than a century old, modern sailing yachts, Maxis and some of the most advanced racing yachts on the international circuit. Depending on the edition, the fleet can include yachts ranging from around 10 to 50 metres in length, with numerous race starts taking place each day across the Gulf.

The origins of the event date back to September 1981 and a friendly challenge between two yachts: Pride, an American Swan 44, and Ikra, a 12 Metre yacht. The course began off the Portalet Tower in Saint-Tropez, rounded the Nioulargo mark and continued towards Pampelonne and Club 55. Ikra won the race, but this spontaneous challenge led to the creation of the Club 55 Cup and, later, the famous Nioulargue, which became one of the defining events in Saint-Tropez’s sailing history. After the Nioulargue came to an end in 1995, the Société Nautique de Saint-Tropez revived the spirit of the event with the creation of Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez in 1999.

The gathering has retained a unique identity ever since: classic yachts with historic rigs share the same racecourse as contemporary yachts designed for outright performance, combining competitive sailing with tradition, sportsmanship and the distinctive art de vivre of Saint-Tropez.

For several days, the port becomes a meeting point for yacht owners, skippers, professional crews, sailors and enthusiasts from around the world. On the water, the Gulf comes alive with race starts, coastal courses, tactical manoeuvres and close competition between yachts. Ashore, the quays and the village follow the rhythm of the racing, arrivals, prize-giving ceremonies and gatherings between crews.

This exceptional concentration of classic and modern yachts makes Les Voiles much more than a sporting competition. It celebrates the culture and heritage of Mediterranean yachting and remains one of the highlights of the Saint-Tropez season.

Where to rent a villa for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez

Choosing the right location is particularly important during Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez. Traffic around the Gulf can be heavy and journey times can vary considerably depending on the time of day.

For convenient access to the racing, the atmosphere along the quays and evenings in the village, it is worth considering either a villa in Saint-Tropez itself or a property in one of the surrounding areas offering easy access by road or sea.

Saint-Tropez: at the heart of Les Voiles

Renting a villa in Saint-Tropez places you at the heart of the event. The port, the quays and the historic centre are where much of the atmosphere of Les Voiles can be experienced before and after the racing.

Depending on the location of the property, the port can be reached on foot or within just a few minutes. The centre of Saint-Tropez, Belle Isnarde, Les Canoubiers, Les Salins and Les Parcs de Saint-Tropez each offer a different setting, from immediate proximity to the village to peaceful residential surroundings and privileged access to the sea.

For crews, yacht owners and guests who want the freedom to move easily between their villa, the port and the various events taking place throughout Les Voiles, Saint-Tropez remains the most convenient location.

Ramatuelle: close to Saint-Tropez in a more peaceful setting

Ramatuelle is one of the most sought-after locations close to Saint-Tropez. Its territory extends towards Pampelonne and is home to many exceptional villas set within spacious grounds, often with swimming pools, open views and a high degree of privacy.

It is particularly appealing for guests who want to attend Les Voiles while also enjoying the beaches, restaurants and lifestyle of the Saint-Tropez peninsula.

Gassin: a strategic location close to Saint-Tropez

Set between Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle and Cogolin, Gassin enjoys an excellent position within the Gulf. Villas located in the lower part of the commune provide convenient access towards Saint-Tropez, while properties on the hills offer greater tranquillity and, in some cases, panoramic views across the Gulf.

Gassin therefore offers an attractive balance between proximity to Saint-Tropez and the privacy of a residential setting.

Cogolin and Les Marines de Cogolin: consider access by sea

Cogolin can be an excellent option for Les Voiles, particularly for villas located towards the Gulf and close to Les Marines de Cogolin.

One of the main advantages of this area is the possibility of reaching Saint-Tropez by boat. Regular water shuttles operate between Les Marines de Cogolin and Saint-Tropez, providing an alternative to driving when traffic becomes heavier around La Foux and the approaches to the village.

For crews and visitors travelling to the port every day, proximity to a water shuttle can therefore be just as important as the distance between the villa and Saint-Tropez itself.

Grimaud and Port Grimaud: another way to reach Saint-Tropez by sea

Grimaud offers two very different settings: the Provençal atmosphere of the hilltop village and the waterfront lifestyle of Port Grimaud.

From Port Grimaud, Saint-Tropez can be reached by regular boat services. During Les Voiles, this direct connection across the Gulf makes the area a particularly attractive alternative for guests who want to avoid relying entirely on the road network.

Which area should you choose for Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez?

For guests wishing to stay as close as possible to the event, Saint-Tropez naturally offers the greatest convenience. Ramatuelle and Gassin provide excellent alternatives, combining proximity with a quieter residential environment.

Cogolin, Les Marines de Cogolin and Port Grimaud offer a different advantage: the possibility of travelling to Saint-Tropez by sea. During Les Voiles, accessibility can therefore be just as important as distance, the number of bedrooms or the facilities offered by the villa.