Saint-Raphaël

Saint Raphael is located on the Cote d’Azur, the Mediterranean coastline of the southeast portion of France. This resort area actually became popular during Roman times as a place for families to vacation. In the Middle Ages it lost some of that glow, but was somewhat...

Saint Raphael is located on the Cote d’Azur, the Mediterranean coastline of the southeast portion of France. This resort area actually became popular during Roman times as a place for families to vacation. In the Middle Ages it lost some of that glow, but was somewhat ‘rediscovered’ after Napoleon landed there in 1799. Though many of the buildings were destroyed in World War II, the city managed to never lose its attraction. Today with the same wide beaches and a climate that includes hot, dry summers and mild winters, Saint Raphael is a draw for many. Students fortunate enough to study French courses in Saint Raphael should take time to explore more than the beaches. In the historical old city, Vieille Ville, visitors can see the Eglise des Templiers, a 12th century church with a watchtower on one of the chapels. This helped locals watch for attacks from the sea. There are still ruins from a Roman aqueduct in its courtyard. The Museum of Underwater Archeology is another interesting stop. It contains ancient diving equipment and other item recovered from the sea’s floor. Be sure to visit the old city in the morning for the best selection of goods at the flower and fruit markets or other open air markets were fresh seafood and cheeses can be found. Students enrolled in French school in Saint Raphael will no doubt spend much free time on the beaches. Some of the beaches are sandy, some are covered in rocks. At most, visitors can rent water sports equipment for an afternoon of fun in the ocean. Whether dining on fresh seafood, dancing to live music at one of the popular bars, or simply enjoying the beauty of the coastline, Saint Raphael is definitely one of the gems of the French Riviera.