UNIQUE VIEWS
Here, every street corner reveals a new vista. Perched on its rocky promontory at an altitude of 200 metres, Gassin offers a breathtaking panorama of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez and, beyond that, the Maures and Estérel mountain ranges, and finally the Alps and the Bay of Cannes. The snow-capped mountains, the green of the forest and vineyards, and the deep blue of the sky and the Mediterranean come together to form an exceptional scene. To the south, Place deï Barri offers a unique view of the natural landscape, the bays of Cavalaire and Pampelonne, and the Îles d’Or, inviting visitors to contemplate and find serenity. The sunsets provide unforgettable spectacles that remain etched in visitors’ memories.
AN EXCEPTIONAL TERROIR
The Gassin area is home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in the Côtes de Provence. Explore the local wine estates and uncover the secrets of artisanal winemaking. Tasting sessions allow you to discover the region’s grape varieties, blends and the ageing process specific to each cuvée, whilst passionate winegrowers share their time-honoured expertise. An olive farm and a jam-making workshop round off this gourmet landscape, showcased in the area’s renowned restaurants… In one of them, on Place deï Barri – where it’s so lovely to relax on spring evenings – a way of life is revealed.
A DESTINATION FOR SPORT AND NATURE
For outdoor enthusiasts, Gassin offers a wealth of activities in the heart of unspoilt natural surroundings. Explore the walking trails winding through the lush green hills or winding their way through the Gassin vineyards. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, stand-up paddleboarding or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Whatever your passion, come and take part in or watch the cycling (Enduro des 3 Caps, Trophée des Ruelles), running (La Gassinoise trail run), equestrian (polo, show jumping) and golf competitions that punctuate village life.
A BIT OF HISTORY
The earliest reference to Gassin found in the archives dates back to 1190. According to the toponymist Charles Rostaing, the name ‘Garcin’ derives from the pre-Indo-European language. In the early 14th century, this seigneury was home to around a thousand inhabitants. Its territory, larger than it is today, covered nearly 6,500 hectares. It was reduced in size in 1929 following the separation of the commune of Cavalaire-sur-Mer, and again in 1934 following that of La Croix-Valmer. The village was historically surrounded by ramparts, or ‘barris’ in Provençal, which were sometimes used to support the construction of houses, allowing some remains to be identified. From the 19th century onwards, the development of roads and the railway contributed to the growth of the plain, turning it into the transport hub of the Gulf. The old village, meanwhile, with its eagle’s-nest location, has remained true to its original character.
MUST-SEES
• The Saracen Gate, which marks the entrance to the medieval fort.
• The Androuno, the narrowest street in the world.
• The remarkable Hardy-Denonain Botanical Garden.
PANORAMAS
• Orientation table, montée Saint-Joseph: unique view of the surrounding villages, the Maures massif, Estérel and the Alps in the background.
• Place deï Barris: breathtaking views over the bay of Cavalaire and the Îles d’Or. Multiple perspectives through alleyways and passageways.
• Chapelle Notre Dame de la Consolation: immerse yourself in the Maures massif.
• Moulins de Paillas: panoramic view at an altitude of 325 m.
