Saint-Maxime is located in the northern part of the Bay of Saint-Tropez. It is protected from the winds of the mistral by wooded hills and is considered one of the most pleasant places to relax. Its beaches of fine sand stretch for 6 km along the coast. The Promenade Simon Laurier runs along the beach, lined with palms and umbrella pines. This strip of land has been reclaimed from the sea.
The city, from the beginning focused on fishing, has a harbor for 800 pleasure yachts and boats. The walking tour begins at the causeway and goes to the lighthouse. The port office building is built in the form of the bow of a ship. Just beyond the port begins the old town with cobblestone streets that can tell you a lot about Saint-Maxime’s past. The Square Tower, built in 1520 by the monks of Lérins, now houses the Museum of Local Traditions. The parish church is famous for its high altar, symbolizing the perpetual progression upward in the circle. Not far from the church, a covered market sells locally produced goods. Also here, in the former slaughterhouse building, is the town hall.
Casino Beach is a witness to the Belle Epoque period, when the beaches of St. Maxime were full of Englishmen. The casino was built in 1928 and renovated in 1997. The Promenade Croisette offers a magnificent view of Saint-Tropez. Nearby is the Myrtle botanical garden, where everything is relaxing and peaceful.
