If you make the trip to St. Tropez (as we discussed last week) and forgo taking the ferry over to Port Grimaud, then you just wasted half the fun you could have had on your visit to this area of the Côte d’Azur (aka, French Riviera). Indeed, Ursula was insistent that this was a must-see side trip when our home for fifty-four days last year, Holland America’s MS Prinsendam, anchored just outside St. Tropez’s sheltered harbor. And she was quite right.
Port Grimaud is built around an intricate network of canals. But think not of Venice, for Grimaud is far more modern. Imagine instead of South Beach meets Venice—expensive cars, expensive homes, expensive yachts, and expensive shops surrounded by architecture far more modern than St. Tropez, yet with a similar character and feel.
Grimaud is also a walker’s paradise. Foot bridges are everywhere, arching elegantly over countless canals. The streets and sidewalks are exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, and thrilling sights await around nearly every corner. White sand beaches abut translucent aqua waters dotted with sailing yachts casting tall masts upwards against azure skies.
With all this awaiting you, come prepared. Bring your camera, or perhaps even two. Slip extra batteries into your pocket and make sure you have plenty of space left on your memory cards. Don your most comfortable walking shoes.
Here is a sample of what you’ll see at this wonderful destination:
Decisions — Murder in Paradise
The Globe — Murder in Luxury
R. Doug Wicker — Author 