Saint-Tropez sets sail

There’ll be a party atmosphere in Saint-Tropez during the 23rd ‘Voiles de Saint-Tropez’ festival. For two weeks, the iconic village steps back in time to welcome 250 of the best sailors from around the world. It’s a unique event originally borne of two sailors challenging each other.

The story began in 1981 when Dick Jayson and his Swan 44 arrived at Saint Tropez’s port – a fashionable place welcoming celebrities from all over the world – and Jean Laurain challenged him to a race. The next day, they left from the foot of the Portalet Tower at Saint-Tropez.

From this, the Niourlague Race was born and ran for many years until, in 1999, it became the ‘Voiles de Saint-Tropez’ under the auspices of the Saint-Tropez Nautical Society.

Today it is considered a highlight of the sailing world and every year, this iconic meeting attracts some of the most beautiful boats in the world, with traditional boats and the most avant-garde sailors coming together for this (almost) fortnight-long event.

Airelles properties in Saint-Tropez are putting out the flags to welcome its guests during the festival. Set in the heart of the town close to the port, Pan Deï Palais is the ideal place to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Saint-Tropez. With 12 Rooms and Suites, Dolceva restaurant and a secret garden with an azur pool, Pan Deï Palais is a luxurious oasis where you can enjoy an indulgent breakfast, a sweet and savoury minibar, soft drinks by the pool and many other services.

“A highlight of the sailing world.”

“Château de La Messardière is in an exceptional location, a little higher in the Ramatuelle hills.”

Inside Airelles

Château de La Messardière is in an exceptional location, a little higher in the Ramatuelle hills, overlooking Pampelonne Bay. Surrounded by pine trees, ancient olive groves, vegetable gardens and swimming pools, the 12.5 hectare resort with 103 Rooms and Suites is the perfect place to reconnect with nature in a place renowned throughout the world.

As well as a generous breakfast, guests also enjoy access to the brand-new Valmont Spa and exclusive acces to Jardin Tropézina, the beach club of the hotel. With private transfers to the beach or town centre in a Mini Moke or a Rolls Royce Culliman, Château de La Messardière keeps the spirit of the upscale Riviera residences of time gone by alive.

Once again, ‘Les Voiles de Saint Tropez’, a colourful event which has remained popular throughout the years, brings together sailors from around the world. It starts on Saturday September 25.

Main photo credits : Jean-Louis Chaix for Saint-Tropez Tourisme