New urban projects in Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël: Promenade des Bains and major worksites

Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël, the pearls of the Var coastline, are undergoing a veritable urban metamorphosis. Driven by environmental, tourism and heritage ambitions, the two towns are rolling out a series of major projects up to 2025, the jewel in the crown of which is the Promenade des Bains, a vast redevelopment of the seafront.

These structuring projects are radically rethinking mobility, aesthetics and urban uses, to create a greener, more fluid and more attractive city. A change of direction that benefits residents and real estate investors alike.

Promenade des Bains: a redesigned waterfront

Stretching for almost 4 km between Santa Lucia and Port Fréjus, the Promenade des Bains embodies the reclamation of the coastline by soft mobility. The objective is clear: to widen pedestrian spaces, create continuous bicycle paths, plant a massive amount of vegetation (1,000 trees planted), modernize lighting and reduce the number of cars.

An electric bus route and shaded strolling areas should make the seafront calmer, safer and more convivial, with redesigned street furniture and a reinforced video surveillance system.

When does work start on the promenade?

In Saint-Raphaël, the first phase (Casino de jeux sector, parvis, De Gaulle sector) was completed in June 2024. Phase 2 begins in autumn 2024 and runs until June 2025, covering the Promenade René Coty and Boulevard Félix Martin.

In Fréjus, the redevelopment of the boulevard d’Alger begins on January 13, 2025 and runs until December 2025, with a few weeks’ interruption during the tourist season (July 11 to September 15). Access to shops, pedestrian traffic and garbage collection will be maintained, despite the temporary elimination of parking in the vicinity of the work zones.

How do projects affect the coastline?

The development of the Promenade des Bains will have a direct impact on the coastline, improving accessibility, enhancing safety, reducing car traffic, upgrading public spaces and enhancing the natural and seaside heritage. These efforts aim to combine tourist appeal with preservation of the sea and seafront, against a backdrop of climate change and high land pressure.

What impact will the projects have on the environment?

These major urban projects have been designed with sustainable development in mind. The use of nature in the city is encouraged by the planting of local species that consume little water and the creation of shaded areas. The preservation of biodiversity, the reduction of automobile pollution and the modernization of infrastructures all contribute to a better balance between urban development, environmental protection and quality of life for the public.

Other high-impact projects

What are the new urban projects in Fréjus?

In Fréjus, the rehabilitation of the old town center will continue in 2025-2026 (rue Ciamin, place Lech Walesa) to enhance the Roman heritage and revitalize the hyper-center, with new pavements, housing and modernization of the water networks. A new project to build a skatepark will also see the light of day in the nature base.

Lastly, work on a new roundabout on avenue Henri Giraud (RD37) is scheduled from June 16 to August 1, 2025, with detour to ease local traffic flow and reinforce the neighborhood’s infrastructure.

What kind of housing will be built in Saint-Raphaël?

A number of real estate developments are expected to tie in with ongoing urban projects. New housing will be concentrated around the redeveloped neighborhoods, particularly along the waterfront, with a varied offering of apartments, primary residences and properties for sale or rent.

Projects will focus on modern real estate programs, with particular attention paid to energy efficiency, accessibility and coherence with the new neighborhoods, in an even more attractive price environment than in Cannes or Saint-Tropez.

What are the objectives of the new PLU?

The new Plan Local d’Urbanisme (PLU) aims to organize urban development in Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël, taking into account the objectives of sustainability, ecological transition and quality of life. It defines buildable zones, heritage and environmental protection, as well as ambitions in terms of facilities, housing and the balance between built and natural areas.

Clear urban planning objectives

These projects combine several strategic axes:

• Soft mobility: fewer cars, more cycling, walking and clean transport
• Sustainable development: climate-friendly vegetation, reduced emissions
• Enhancing heritage: highlighting Fréjus’ Roman past and Saint-Raphaël’s seaside charm

With an estimated budget of 65 million euros for the waterfront alone, the two towns are confirming their ambition to become urban planning benchmarks on the Côte d’Azur.

Why it’s an opportunity to buy or invest

Real estate investors and buyers of primary residences in Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël enjoy significant advantages thanks to recent urban projects, notably the Promenade des Bains and major urban transformation projects.

For real estate investors

• Asset enhancement: Renovation of the waterfront and modernization of infrastructure are boosting the area’s appeal, increasing property values and potential rents in an already dynamic market.
• Sustained rental demand: Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël attract a broad public (tourists, students, workers), ensuring high occupancy and solid profitability prospects, including through seasonal rentals.
• Market stability: Despite recent price rises, prices in Fréjus remain more affordable than in Cannes or Saint-Tropez, while showing a positive trend and stabilizing values.

For buyers of primary residences

• Improved living environment: The new developments offer a lifestyle focused on soft mobility, greenery, air quality and safety, creating an ideal environment for family living.
• Infrastructure quality: Easy access to beaches, shopping centers, medical centers and schools, in neighborhoods enhanced by renovations and new green spaces.
• Purchase incentives: New homes qualify for the zero-rate loan (PTZ) and, in some cases, the reduced VAT rate of 5.5% for principal residences in certain targeted neighborhoods.
• Comfort and energy performance: A new home guarantees lower maintenance costs, better energy performance and reassuring builder warranties.

In brief

Urban development projects in Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël are transforming the region in a lasting way, while boosting its residential and tourist appeal.

These ambitious projects – such as the Promenade des Bains and the redevelopment of town centers – boost the local real estate market, by enhancing the living environment, infrastructure and natural heritage.

Whether you’re looking to invest in real estate or settle down as a primary residence, now is the ideal time to buy in these two strategic seaside towns on the Côte d’Azur. Between land appreciation, improved quality of life and advantageous tax incentives, all the indicators are green.