Cape Camarat

Cape Camarat is the headland that marks the southern end of the great bay of Pampelonne, on the peninsula of Saint-Tropez, and it is one of the most scenic points of the coast. It belongs to the commune of Ramatuelle, and a narrow road winds up through scrub and pines to a small car park below the lighthouse, from where paths and viewpoints give an open outlook across the sea. The cape is a place of rocks, wind and bright light, quite different from the crowded beaches and quays of Saint-Tropez, and it is part of the stretch of protected coast that includes Cap Taillat and Cap Lardier to the south.

The lighthouse is the main landmark. The Phare du Cap Camarat is a tall white tower with a black lantern, and its light is placed at about 130 metres above the sea, which makes it one of the highest lighthouses in France, though claims about its exact ranking vary. The lighthouse guides ships along a coast with many reefs and headlands. Because it is an operating lighthouse, access to the tower itself is usually limited, so most visitors enjoy the grounds and the view from outside, and it is wise to check locally whether any visits are possible.

The views are the reward. To the north, the long, curved sweep of the Plage de Pampelonne, with its sand and beach clubs, can be seen, and beyond it the rooftops of Saint-Tropez and the Gulf behind. To the south and east, the rocky coast runs toward Cap Taillat and the sea stretches to the islands of Hyères on a clear day. The vegetation is typical of the Provençal coast, with pines, cork oak, mastic and aromatic shrubs, and the scent of herbs hangs in the air in summer. Paths from the lighthouse area lead down to rocky coves and to the coastal trail, the sentier du littoral, which can be followed for several kilometres.

The terrain is dry and exposed, so bring water, sun protection and sturdy shoes, and take care in strong wind. In summer, the fire risk is high, and access to the paths may be limited on certain days, so check the restrictions before you travel. The cape is also a good place for sunset, when the light turns golden and the sea darkens.

From the cape, it is a short drive to the other sights of the area. The Citadelle Saint-Tropez, the Port de Saint-Tropez, the Place des Lices, La Ponche, the Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, the Musée de la Marine and the Jardin des Salins are all nearby, and the village of Ramatuelle, set on a hill, is a pleasant place for lunch.

The cape suits walkers, photographers and drivers who enjoy wild scenery.