Introduction to Ste-Maxime

24km (15 miles) SW of St-Raphaël; 61km (38 miles) SW of Cannes

Ste-Maxime is just across the gulf from glitzy St-Tropez, but its atmosphere is much more sedate. Young families are the major vacationers here, though an occasional refugee from across the water will come over to escape the see-and-be-seen crowd. The town is surrounded by the red cliffs of the Massif des Maures, protecting it from harsh weather. However, the wide stretches of sand and the cafe-lined promenades lure travelers to spend their days basking in the sun. More active vacationers might want to try windsurfing or water-skiing in the calm waters, or even golfing. The 16th-century fort was built by the monks of Lérins (who also named the port) and houses a museum. The best thing about Ste-Maxime is the price -- though the town isn't as in vogue as St-Tropez, it's fun, affordable, and -- according to locals -- a lot less decadent.