Azure-blue sea, fine sandy beaches, a hinterland bursting with olive trees and mimosas... there’s no denying that Sainte-Maxime, this small town of just 15,000 inhabitants nestled against the Massif des Maures mountain range at the entrance to the Gulf of Saint Tropez, is an exceptional place to live. From its colourful fishing boats to its winding cobbled streets, from the neighbouring vineyards to the lively markets and heated boules matches, it is the true epitome of the Côte d'Azur and the Provençal way of life. Welcoming, family-friendly and bustling all year round, it boasts a variety of modern amenities, embodied by the latest ambitious plans to develop the seafront.
The real estate
The market has been growing at an average of around 2% per year for the past five years, with an increase of 5% to 10% over the past two years. Prices can vary greatly depending on the nature of the property, the amenities it offers and the view. A high-end property will sell for between €10,000 and €12,000 per sq.m.
Our advice
Sainte-Maxime is following in the footsteps of Saint-Tropez, becoming a firm favourite with demanding buyers.
Sainte-Maxime is increasingly in demand, making it a wise investment, with an increase in value guaranteed and plenty of seasonal rental opportunities.
Inside tip
Our clients are looking for turnkey properties offering a high level of amenities and with a sea view if possible.
Art of living
From walks by the sea or among the vines to home décor stores promoting the Made in France label and the sorts of restaurants made for whiling away entire evenings, Sainte-Maxime shines all year round.
Things to do
Musée du Phonographe
@saintemaximetourisme
Behind a colourful façade adorned with strange and charming motifs lies the curious Musée du Phonographe, the Museum of Phonography. Here you’ll find a whole host of antique models, vintage instruments and music boxes playing enchanting tunes.
Route du Muy, Parc Saint-Donat 83120 Sainte-Maxime
Oliveraie du Cadé et des Ribes olive grove
@saintemaximetourisme
The olive tree is an age-old treasure that is still the king of the fruit trees in Provence today. Here at the Oliveraie du Cadé et des Ribes olive grove, you can marvel at the hundred-year-old trees and sample their most precious nectar: olive oil.
12 Rue de la Plage, 83120 Sainte-Maxime
La Pointe des Sardinaux
@saintemaximetourisme
This isolated peninsula nicknamed Little Corsica is a great place to come to observe shellfish, crustaceans and some fascinating marine vegetation in the shade of the pine trees. If you’d like to explore the turquoise waters for yourself, though, then diving is the way to go.
1 Avenue du Général Touzet du Vigier, 83120 Sainte-Maxime
Shopping
Château de Jasson
@chateaudejasson
A family estate in the heart of the mountains, where the wine culture dates back to ancient times. The varieties grown here range from Grenache to Semillon and all flourish in this Mediterranean soil. The Côtes de Provence they make here is lightly fruity and sustainably produced.
813 Route de Collobrières, 83250 La Londe Les Maures
L’Art à Part
@lartapart
This concept store is bursting with little decorative gems. From mirrors made of shells to light fittings made of rushes, each room exudes Mediterranean charm while drawing inspiration from the world of ultra-contemporary design.
1 Rue d'Alsace, 83120 Saint-Maxime
The hottest reservations in town
La Badiane
@labadiane
The punchy menu diners can enjoy here makes for a stark contrast with the rustic chic setting. Carrot with grapefruit and shrimp with kumquat, not to mention the lobster infused with yuzu... Refreshing precision dining at its best!
6 Rue Fernand-Bessy, Sainte-Maxime, 83120, France
L’Hermitage
@lhermitage
Diners here can expect an atmosphere that balances the blue of the sea with the white of the furniture, all overlooking the harbour. On the menu, you’ll find the finest produce Provence has to offer, including lightly fried sea bass and sun-kissed vegetables.
118 Avenue Charles de Gaulle, 83120 Sainte-Maxime
Boho
@bohosaintemaxime
You’ll find everything from Oriental mezes to Peruvian ceviches on the menu at Boho? But we particularly recommend the fried artichokes and confit shoulder of lamb. Against a backdrop of turquoise hues that bring a touch of warmth to the rattan furniture.
1 Place Colbert, 83120 Sainte-Maxime
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