Bormes les Mimosas is situated on the stretch of coastline connecting Toulon and St Tropez. It’s home to swanky villas and the châteaux of the rich and famous. It’s also where you’ll find some of the best beaches in France, including lovely Estagnol.
Why Estagnol should be on your best beach ever list
The best way to go to Estagnol is via the coastal road, called Route de Léoube, which runs between La Londe-les-Maures and Bormes-les-Mimosas. It’s a spectacular drive – you’ll spot huge and ancient cork tree forests and vineyards that literally touch the ocean.
There are two famous beaches on this stretch of road, both with private parking (paid): Le Pellegrin and L’Estagnol. Estagnol has a beautiful bay with clear waters, which are not too deep for small children, and it’s lined by beautiful old pine trees. It’s small and gets busy in the summer months, as its a favourite with the French. So avoid peak times or plan to arrive early or late. “L’Estagnol” is the perfect beach side Restaurant, not fancy like in nearby St Tropez, but good food including lots of choice if you have little ones. It’s fun, colourful and efficient and you’ll find it just behind the dunes of the beach – book in advance if you can.
Off-season it’s a great idea to walk the coastal footpath that runs behind the beaches through the dunes where you breathe in the scent of sea salt and the flora and fauna of this protected area. If you’re not too sandy and tired, pop into Château Léoube for a Rosé Tasting in an extraordinarily beautiful setting.
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Susana Iwase Hanson runs the popular Provence Living website. Jeany Cronk is co-founder of award-winning Mirabeau Wines; she writes widely on the Southern French lifestyle and has been featured regularly in the international press. Both live in Cotignac, Provence.
