Bardot's birthday was a perfect segue to today's post. St.Tropez is the French Riviera's glitzy, glamorous getaway for the rich and the personal playground of the celebrated. Its notoriety is largely due to Bardot's presence in the 1950s, and though rarely seen, she is still in residence. Although, in reality, St. Tropez is anything but a "getaway." The last time I was there (which was eons ago), it was overcrowded and overpriced. The highway leading into the town stretched for miles on end with back-to-back traffic which ultimately became its own spirited gala. Additionally, the little streets and boutiques were stuffed to capacity with tourists. (Funny, how we consider everyone else a tourist, but ourselves as travelers.) I won't even begin to discuss the exorbitant cost of a meal or cocktail. Nevertheless, I imagine it to be quite a charming place in low season without the droves of sun seekers and party animals. One place that may make it well worth the visit is the Pastis Hotel St. Tropez. This contemporary boutique hotel is filled with 20th century art, paintings and photographs and relaxed, airy decor. You probably won't spot Bardot, but if you're lucky, you just may get to experience St. Tropez as the sleepy fishing village it was before it became the ostentatious haven for jetsetters it is today.
Ursula, you always find the most interesting subject to post about. You are exactly right about the tourist jam, but ohhhhhhh the Riviera...
Posted by: Marsha @ Splenderosa | September 30, 2011 at 09:33 AM