Once a quiet fishing village, the coastal town of Saint-Tropez caught the attention of wealthy jet-setters thanks to the 1956 Bridget Bardot movie ‘And God Created Woman,’ which was filmed locally.
Today, Saint-Tropez is one of the French Riviera’s most desirable destinations, and it’s not uncommon to see actors, athletes, fashion designers, musicians, supermodels and other famous faces soaking up the atmosphere.
Set in the Var department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in Southern France, Saint-Tropez and its surrounding areas have stunning properties that range from intimate apartments to multi-bedroom houses and villas overlooking the sea.
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Why Invest in Saint-Tropez Real Estate?
Though it has one of the glitziest reputations on the Côte d’Azur, Saint-Tropez is surprisingly laid-back. On the one hand, it’s well-known for its star-studded history, fashionable crowds, high-end boutiques and shiny yachts. However, you can also peruse the traditional market at Places des Lices and enjoy slow-paced Provençal summers. It seems that tradition and luxury live in perfect harmony here.
Current Property Prices in Saint-Tropez
Currently, luxury property prices in Saint-Tropez range from €15,800 to upwards of €40,000 per square metre. The average property price falls within the €22,000 to €28,000 per square metre range, which is what you’ll find with many of our listed houses and villas. For a luxury apartment, prices have a broad scope, with some priced at €17,000 per square metre and others at the high end.
During the off-peak season, there tends to be less competition in the Saint-Tropez real estate market. This may be a good time to look for property, as sellers can be more willing to negotiate, potentially saving you 5% to 10% on the sale price.
Historical Property Trends in Saint-Tropez
Overall, Saint-Tropez and much of the French Riviera are considered safe for long-term investment. Saint-Tropez specifically is known for resisting market fluctuations and keeping prices relatively stable year after year.
During the pandemic, demand and prices increased as buyers looked for expansive properties with a lot of outdoor space. The boom continued for a while post-COVID, with many other buyers finally taking the next step to purchase property in Saint-Tropez.
Currently, the market has stabilised since that increase, leading to slightly lower prices and more inventory than before. Additionally, there’s been a lot of construction since the pandemic, which has helped to provide more properties for interested buyers.
Who Buys Property in Saint-Tropez?
International buyers make up the largest segment of French Riviera property buyers, with approximately 70% coming from outside France. Many clients are based in the U.S., along with Monaco and throughout the rest of Europe.
Turnkey villas are known to attract high-net-worth buyers who are looking for a holiday home or a primary residence. The region near Pampelonne Beach is historically the most in demand, so competition is always expected here.
Additionally, apartments close to Pampelonne Beach are especially appealing to investors who see the potential in buying a rental property in such a tourist-heavy area.
The Best Neighborhoods to Buy Property in Saint-Tropez
Whether you want to walk to Club 55 or enjoy a panoramic sea view from your terrace, owning a property in the Saint-Tropez area can help you achieve your dream of living a life of luxury in the French Riviera.
Les Parcs de Saint-Tropez
Set between the Bay of Canoubiers, the Maures mountains, and the sea, this private domain includes a private beach and tennis courts. It’s also a short drive from the heart of Saint-Tropez, as well as the Tahiti and Pampellone beaches. Many of the area’s most expensive villas can be found here, and with such high demand, finding one on the market is a chance you won’t want to pass up.
La Ponche
La Ponche, also known as Saint-Tropez’s Old Town, is the village’s historic centre, situated just below the citadel. Originally the area’s fishing district, today, the quarter is Saint-Tropez’s most popular pedestrian area. Walk along the narrow alleyways to find boutiques, shops, cafes and restaurants, and take in the view from the waterfront promenade.
There are several landmarks here to appreciate, including the Eglise Notre Dame de l’Assomption, a baroque-style Italian church, and the Bailli de Suffren statue, depicting one of the most important French admirals of the 17th century.
Ramatuelle
Ramatuelle is where you’ll find the famous Pampelonne Beach and Club 55. Hollywood’s elite and other A-listers are attracted to this area day and night, and Club 55 has been considered the place to be since its opening in 1955. Despite appealing to a haute clientele, Club 55 is notably rustic, serving simple food and treating customers like old friends.
Best Coastal Locations To Buy Property
In addition to Ramatuelle’s coastal setting and desirable property listings, there are other seafront areas in and near Saint-Tropez to look for your new home.
La Croix-Valmer
With its hidden coves, sandy beaches and sunny vineyards, La Croix-Valmer is a peaceful haven in the foothills of the Maures mountains. Renowned for its delicious local rosé wine and golden beaches, such as Plage de Gigaro and Plage du Débarquement, the area also offers excellent walking and hiking trails. Just a 20-minute drive from Saint-Tropez, La Croix-Valmer has become a highly-coveted area to own property in the area.
Gassin
Gassin, with its breathtaking views of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and the Maures mountains, is a delightful medieval village that is highly sought-after by those looking to buy property in the Saint-Tropez area. Small, winding cobblestone streets and ancient houses make this a glorious place to visit, and the local golf club, walking paths, and water sports on offer mean that a lifestyle here can be both glamorous and active.
Sainte-Maxime
If you’re looking to buy a home in a family-friendly area of Saint-Tropez, consider Sainte-Maxime. While it’s popular with visitors during the tourist season, it becomes a peaceful, private haven during the off-season. You’ll have easy access to bars, cafes, markets, restaurants and shops, as well as a local petanque court and a sailing school. The area beaches include La Nartelle, La Garonette and Plage des Éléphants.
Exploring Saint-Tropez’s Hidden Gems
In addition to the most popular parts of Saint-Tropez, there are lesser-known towns with untapped potential.
Cogolin
Just 15 minutes northwest of Gassin lies Cogolin, a lively and picturesque town with a full events program to partake in. Cogolin is home to one of the Gulf’s largest harbors, and the marina has numerous shops and restaurants to visit. Try a tarte tropézienne, a dessert pastry that’s a local specialty.
La Garde-Freinet
For the utmost privacy, consider a home in La Garde-Freinet, set in the wooded hills of the Maures mountain range. The authentic Provencal setting offers cobbled streets and stone houses with countryside views. It’s hard to believe the commune is only 30 minutes from Saint-Tropez, and that’s the main appeal for buyers: living a tranquil life in a natural setting while being close to the energetic Côte d’Azur.
Grimaud
The charming medieval village of Grimaud is considered the Venice of Provence, and you can hop on a ferry to visit Saint-Tropez whenever you wish. The area is particularly attractive to those who love spending time outdoors. Aside from sunbathing on the beaches or sailing on the Med, you can also go cycling, hiking and horseback riding in Grimaud.
What Are the Best Ways To Find Property To Buy in Saint-Tropez?
To find the perfect property in Saint-Tropez, you’ll need in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market. Buyer’s agents have extensive experience in the neighborhoods they serve, with comprehensive information about property values, planned development projects and more.
Additional perks of working with a buyer’s agent include the following:
- Access to Off-Market Properties: Buyer’s agents know of off-market listings that the public and other real estate professionals don’t have access to. This can give you an advantage when it comes to finding a Saint-Tropez home that fits your needs.
- Exclusive Representation: A buyer’s agent has only the buyer’s interests in mind, and you’ll be given dedicated, personalised service instead of competing with the interests of the seller.
- Unbiased Advice: Since your agent will only represent you, they’re able to offer objective advice about a property’s pros and cons, allowing you to make the most informed decision possible.
When you’re buying property in such a high-end and in-demand area as Saint-Tropez, working with a buyer’s agent and having access to their knowledge and resources can give you a strategic advantage.
Final Thoughts About Saint-Tropez Property
Buying property in Saint-Tropez is more than a smart investment. It gives you the opportunity to live an elegant, luxurious lifestyle amongst a stunning landscape and a dazzling culture. With expert guidance, you’ll be able to navigate the Saint-Tropez market confidently to find the neighborhood and property that fits best with your aspirations.
HOMEHUNTS property agents are able to select beautiful, luxury Saint-Tropez property based on your specific search criteria. Speak directly to one of our consultants by calling +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
