Port Grimaud was designed as a waterside village where houses, boats, streets and public spaces are all connected by a network of canals. Created by architect François Spoerry from the 1960s onwards, it is very different from the historic hilltop village of Grimaud a few kilometres inland.

The layout is one of the most interesting things to notice when visiting. Many houses have their own mooring directly outside, while pedestrian bridges connect different parts of the village. Boats move through the canals in much the same way cars move through streets elsewhere.

Architecture was designed to give Port Grimaud the character of a Mediterranean village rather than a conventional marina. Façades vary in shades of ochre, pink, yellow and cream, with tiled roofs, shutters and small squares breaking up the waterfront.

The best way to understand the design is to explore from more than one perspective. Walk through the pedestrian streets first, crossing the small bridges and following the canals. You can then take a boat trip through the waterways or rent one of the small electric boats available locally.

Restaurants and cafés occupy several waterfront locations, making lunch beside a canal an easy addition to the visit. From a table at the water’s edge, you can watch residents and visitors arriving directly by boat.

Port Grimaud is also well positioned for exploring the wider Golfe de Saint-Tropez. Saint-Tropez lies across the Gulf and seasonal boat services can provide an alternative to driving during busy periods.

For first-time visitors, it is worth allowing more than a quick stop. The canals are the main attraction, but the combination of architecture, boating and waterfront life is what makes Port Grimaud unusual.

Living with the Water

One of the most unusual parts of François Spoerry's plan was giving many homes their own mooring. Discover why boats became part of residential life in Port Grimaud.

Read how Port Grimaud was designed around the boat →

Planning a Visit?

See how to spend a day in Port Grimaud →

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