Gassin
The Gulf watch
Situated at the top of a steep hill, Gassin offers an exceptional circular view of the Maures, the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and beyond to the Golden Isles, overlooking a picturesque landscape of vineyards and forests.
A renowned medieval village
Perched at an altitude of 200 m, Gassin is one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages”. A bell tower, a town hall, a Café Perché and a few picturesque shops make up the postcard of this charming Provencal village. But Gassin has that extra touch of soul that makes you feel like a poet, like those little cobbled streets called androuno in Provençal, those serpentine porches, those stone-fronted houses adorned with bougainvillea, plumbagos and Virginia creeper, huddled together around the church so as not to slip down the slope…Then there’s the Place deï Barri, a superb balcony with its famous restaurants, century-old hackberry trees and, just below, the intimate L’Hardy-Denonain botanical garden; here, the lilies are black…
Exceptional vineyards
Gassin has remained true to its winegrowing tradition. Ten vineyards, protected by the surrounding hills, flourish on plains or hillsides, only caressed by the gentle southern light. Ideal conditions for producing great Côtes-de-Provence wines. The Wine Route is the perfect way to learn about the history of the estates, before enjoying a tasting session.
The prestige of the Haras Polo Club and Golf Club
On the Chemin de traverse du Bourrian, an imposing gateway opens onto the recently renovated Polo Club and the magnificent grounds of the Haras. Far from being an elitist club, this venue hosts international Polo and Jumping tournaments open to the public, as well as prestigious private events. On the other side of the Bélieu lies the superb golf course designed by Gary Player.
Breathtaking panoramic views
From the orientation table, the azure blue of the sea stands out over 240 of the 360 degrees: you’re on a peninsula! It contrasts with the shades of green of the vineyards and the Maures massif, which stretch out over the remaining 120 degrees, dotted with small touches of ochre tile for the surrounding villages. In the distance, the mythical seaside road links the Marines of Gassin/Cogolin to Saint-Tropez, with a charming seafaring school anchored on the shore, bearing the gentle name of “La Moune”. The village is also proud to have been awarded the “accueil vélo” label.
A little background
The first mention of Gassin dates back to 1190, and the place name, written Garcin or Gassin, is thought to be a personal name. At the beginning of the 14th century, its seigneury included around a thousand inhabitants. Its larger terroir covered almost 6,500 hectares, reduced in 1929 by the detachment of the commune of Cavalaire-sur-Mer and in 1934 by that of La Croix Valmer. The village was surrounded by ramparts or, in Provençal, barri, which served as supports for the construction of houses and of which a few remains remain. In the 19th century, development came from the plain, road building and the railroad. Thanks to its eagle’s nest location, Gassin has preserved its authentic, unspoilt character.
Stays & Activities in Gassin
