Discover Cogolin, a Provencal village on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: crafts, markets, Marines de Cogolin, AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards with wine tastings.
Situated on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, Cogolin is an authentic Provencal village with an appealing heritage, arts and crafts and unspoilt natural surroundings. With 11,800 inhabitants and a surface area of 27.93 km², Cogolin offers a harmonious balance between tradition, culture and the Mediterranean art of living.
Cogolin’s Provencal market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is a not-to-be-missed event for discovering local flavors, local produce and the typical atmosphere of the South of France.
The charm of Cogolin is best revealed on a stroll through the old village to the top of the hill. Narrow streets, vaulted passageways, serpentine or volcanic stone porches bear witness to a rich past. Landmarks include the Tour de l’Horloge, Saint-Sauveur church and its sundial, true symbols of Cogolin’s heritage.
The best way to discover all Cogolin’s secrets? Take one of the guided tours of the village offered by theTourist Office.
Between the green hills and the coastline, you can also enjoy the sea at Les Marines de Cogolin, a modern marina with restaurants and a wide range of water sports.
The legend of the origin of the name Cogolin
Legend has it that the boat carrying the body of the knight Torpès from Pisa, Italy, ran aground in ’68 on the shores of present-day Saint-Tropez, and then collided with its ill-fated passengers – a rooster and a dog – at the bottom of the gulf, in an ancient marsh bordered by reeds. There, the rooster flew into a field of flax. And rooster and flax became Cogolin. The gallinaceous bird became its emblem.
Cogolin, a land of exceptional craftsmanship and know-how
For centuries, Cogolin has been renowned for its arts and crafts, which are an integral part of its identity. A veritable detour into Provence, the village invites you to meet passionate craftsmen, perpetuating their unique know-how.
Cogolin pipes: historic know-how
The Cogolin pipe is one of the commune’s most emblematic symbols. As early as the XIXᵉ century, Cogolin became a major center for the manufacture of pipes made from briar, a local wood renowned for its resistance to heat. This craftsmanship earned the town an international reputation, attracting enthusiasts and collectors from all over the world, as well as numerous celebrities: Georges Brassens, Johnny Hallyday… The Courrieu pipe factory perpetuates its know-how from generation to generation, and has even been awarded the state label: “Entreprise du Patrimoine vivant” (Living Heritage Company). Their pipes come in a variety of colors, and some even bear the effigy of presidents.
The store is open to the public, while the workshop is located in a back room, accessible free of charge for small groups.
Rigotti reeds: musical excellence
Founded in Cogolin, France, Rigotti is a world-renowned manufacturer of reeds for wind instruments (clarinets, saxophones). Made from carefully selected reeds grown nearby, Rigotti reeds are prized by professional musicians for their precision and exceptional sound quality. This expertise combines traditional craftsmanship with the highest technical standards.
Guided tours of the village are offered by the Tourist Office.
Pottery: a living Provencal tradition
Pottery in Cogolin is part of a long-standing Provencal tradition. Artisan potters work with clay to create utilitarian or decorative pieces, often inspired by Mediterranean nature. Each creation reflects meticulous craftsmanship and an attachment to the shapes and colors of the South.
The carpet factory: heritage and creation
Since 1924, the manufacture has been a rich source of artisanal know-how sought after by customers in search of tradition and quality, including artists such as Jean Cocteau. From hand-knotted to woven on 19th-century Jacquard looms, Cogolin carpets can be recognized by the elegance of their high-relief floral and geometric motifs. These creations adorn palaces, embassies, luxurious residences and yachts.
The workshop cannot be visited, but the showroom is accessible.
Les Marines de Cogolin
Les Marines de Cogolin offers a peaceful seaside setting in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, between fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters. This maritime district features a lively marina, boutiques and seaside restaurants. It’s the ideal starting point for coastal walks and water sports, or simply to enjoy the sun and the Provencal way of life. Between the sea and local shops, Les Marines de Cogolin embodies an authentic and friendly maritime escape. Nautical activities include jet skiing, boat rental with or without a license, catamaran outings, scuba diving and boat shuttles to Saint-Tropez.
Major events in Cogolin
In Cogolin, the year is full of events. In May, don’t miss the Bravades de la Saint-Maur, when the village is decked out in white and blue to celebrate its patron saint. In September, the Foire Provençale invites you to discover and share in local traditions. And at Christmas, the village lights up for festivities that delight young and old alike.
The vineyards of Cogolin
Many AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards in Cogolin offer tastings and cellar tours.
What can you do in Cogolin in half a day?
Spend half a day discovering Cogolin, with its heritage, craftsmanship and Mediterranean lifestyle:
- Stroll through the old village: cobbled streets, Tour de l’Horloge and Saint-Sauveur church to discover the Provencal heritage.
- Visit local craft workshops: Courrieu pipe factory, Rigotti reeds, pottery and carpet manufacture to admire know-how and traditions.
- Provencal market: on Wednesdays and Saturdays, sample local produce and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
- Discover the AOP Côtes de Provence vineyards: cellar tours and local wine tastings in Cogolin.
- Stroll to Les Marines de Cogolin: marina, stores, restaurants and water sports in a peaceful Mediterranean setting.