The last few years have seen much speculation on exactly how Saint Tropez’s Pampelonne Beach is set to change, following the passing of regulations designed to protect the ecology of the beach in 2015. However, with so many claims flying around, it has been hard for both holidaymakers and locals to know what to expect from this iconic beach in the future. To demystify the picture, luxury property rental business St Tropez House has commissioned in-depth research on exactly what these Pampelonne changes will be. Curious about what Pampelonne 2019 will look like? Read on.
Why is the government making changes to Pampelonne Beach?
The Plage de Pampelonne is one of the world’s most famous beaches; a paradisiacal 4.5km of golden sands, first put on the map by Brigitte Bardot in the 60s. The beach has since become a must-visit destination for A-Listers, supermodels and politicians, and anyone who wants to soak up the glamour.
However, the ecology of Pampelonne beach has suffered under its sheer popularity, something which the changes seek to redress. The measures aim to protect and restore Pampelonne’s sand dune, which is home to several very rare plant species.
What will the Pampelonne changes involve?
The work started after the Voiles de Saint-Tropez this September, with the new Pampelonne beach set to be ready for Spring 2019.
Many people were worried that the plans would see a drastic reduction in the number of beaches and beach clubs on this illustrious stretch of sand. The new strategy for Pampelonne will see the number of beach clubs fall from 27 to 23 – part of the government’s plan to reduce the stretch of the beach occupied by beach clubs from 1,350m to 900m. However, St Tropez House’s research shows that plenty of the favourite spots – including Club55, Nikki Beach and Les Palmiers – will remain, and there will even be a few new ones to look forward to.
Around 80% of Pampelonne beach will remain public and free of charge, with 20% reserved for beach clubs. These clubs will open from March to October, and during down seasons the constructions will be removed, giving the beach a chance to return to its fully natural state. Pampelonne 2019 will have a zero-concrete policy.
Which beach clubs will we lose and which will we gain?
The infographic shows the new layout of Pampelonne. New beach clubs include LOULOU in the Tamaris area, l’Hôtel de Paris and Byblos in Boulevard Patch, and La Réserve and Christopher Artis in l’Epi area.
However, we do say goodbye to some of our treasured beaches and beach clubs. Key West, Maison Bianca, Pago Pago, Tabou, Shellona, Bagatelle, La Plage des Jumeaux and Eden Plage will all be missed, but the Pampelonne beach spirit is sure to carry on without them.
How will the changes affect Saint Tropez tourism?
You might be wondering how these Pampelonne changes will affect the heaving tourism industry in St-Tropez. Luckily, it seems like the answer is positive. More restaurants are set to open directly behind the beaches and these establishments will be open all year round, meaning more places to dine for locals and off-season visitors.
The introduction of new big-name hotels such as Byblos, l’Hôtel de Paris and La Réserve will mean that, alongside the enchanting Pampelonne beach villas, there are even more luxurious places to stay when visiting Saint Tropez. Plus, the government’s longer-term contracts with the beach club owners mean that they will be able to invest in higher-quality design and materials for the clubs. Expect even more finesse from your favourite spots. All this should mean that Pampelonne beach in 2019 is still an amazing experience for both tourists and locals. We can’t wait to see the changes, and we’re sure you can’t either!
