What’s on this August in Sainte-Maxime

10 July 2015

Amarante Golf Plaza Offers a Guide to Spending a Sensational Summer in Sainte-Maxime

Sitting across the bay from the bustling town of Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime offers a laid-back culture that delivers both traditional charm and the luxury amenities the Riviera is famed for. Pair this character with a prime location next to the glittering Mediterranean and it becomes an ideal destination for a relaxing summer break. If, after days spent soaking up the sun on the white sandy beaches or enjoying 18 holes of golf, visitors fancy experiencing a true taste of what the South of France has to offer, there are many exciting events happening in the area too. We’ve put together a guide to three key activities from the local calendar that’ll deliver something a little more unique during an August stay in Sainte-Maxime.

Go Stargazing During Nights of the Stars

As well as its miles of scenic coastline, the Côte d'Azur is also well-known for its undulating mountains, covered in cork oak trees and interspersed with idyllic villages… and it’s this unspoilt horizon, with fewer opportunities for light pollution that makes it an ideal area for stargazing. Every August, the region takes part in les Nuits des étoiles, Nights of the Stars, which sees thousands gather across the country at hundreds of events designed to inform, excite and inspire about all things astronomy. Amateur societies will offer guided tours, conferences and much more for everyone to enjoy for free; ideal for novices, the intrigued and those simply in search of an exciting and ultimately romantic evening activity.

The programme will be taking place between the 7th and 9th of August this year, and the nearest event to Sainte-Maxime will be in Le Cannet des Maures, a small town with views over the lush Plaine des Maures. Expect video presentations, sky observations and a conference about what the summer sky has to offer from Daniel Joubin, while slightly further afield, the Copernicus Astronomy Club will be offering the chance to try out telescopes and take part in a sundial workshop in Fréjus. Regardless of the city, town or village you visit during Nights of the Stars, it’ll be hard not to be awe-inspired during its 25th anniversary year.

Pull Some Shapes at the Ramatuelle Jazz Festival

Just over half an hour away from Sainte-Maxime, the medieval village of Ramatuelle offers a 16th century church, hidden coves and vineyards to explore by day. But by night, its warm summer air is set to fill with the sound of toe-tapping jazz between the 16th and 20th of August. In its 30th year, the Ramatuelle Jazz Festival attracts acts from all over the world to play in its intimate outdoor theatre every year and the latest line-up won’t disappoint. From music inspired by ‘The Sound’ Stan Getz to a revival of 1940s swing music, there’ll be a performance to suit every taste that'll make it near impossible not to start dancing.

Filling the headline spot on the first night, New York based pianist and singer Elaine Elias will be rediscovering her roots with the inclusion of a Brazilian guitar in her jazz quartet, while the Milevska trio from Bulgaria will feature the soothing sound of the harp in their performance. Legendary drummer Daniel Humair and an accompanying younger skill-set will take centre stage on Tuesday the 18th, and with focus on being in the present moment, expect some off-the-wall improvisation. If all of that wasn’t enough, pianist Jacky Terrasson will be joined by the likes of beatboxer Sly Johnson and special guest Stéphane Belmondo to close the festival, all with the backdrop of vast olive fields. Dust off the dancing shoes and watch world-class musicians for €40 per evening. 

Grab a Bargain at the Grande Braderie

Those in need of a little retail therapy needn’t panic if they’ve missed les soldes, instead, simply save up spends for the 23rd of August. Sainte-Maxime’s Grande Braderie will offer four discount-filled days that’ll have even the most refined shoppers rifling through rails. Market stalls will stretch along the winding streets of Sainte-Maxime and down to the Quai Léon Condroyer, each manned by retailers and craftsmen, all determined to sell off every last piece of their summer collections. Starting at 8am on the 23rd and finishing at 7pm on the 26th, this major shopping event is ideal for filling holiday suitcases with pretty summer dresses, stylish sandals and much more, all bought for a fraction of their normal price.

Rue de Verdun is home to many classic and contemporary womenswear boutiques, including Grolles 72, which stocks the likes of Diesel, Scotch & Soda and Havaianas. While a trip down Avenue Jean Jaurès will lead to Alibi Boutique, home to on-trend dresses by MC Planet and Birkenstock footwear. Sunglasses don’t come much chicer than from Alain Afflelou, while Sixieme Sens stocks a range of sought-after menswear brands including Ralph Lauren. Head to little6 for childrenswear and then over the road for the latest toys, games and cuddly toys at JouéClub… and after a long day of bargain-hunting, the delicious array of Belgian chocolates and artisan sweet treats at Au Choc’ohla will deliver the perfect pick-me-up.

From the educational to the indulgent, Sainte-Maxime has an event to entertain the whole family this August. With the chance to marvel at the sparkling night sky in the South of France, shop-till-you-drop in a four day extravaganza and watch leading jazz acts in the stunning Massif des Maures mountain range, a truly unique holiday experience awaits in Saint-Maxime this August.