If you are looking for a change of scenery and stunning natural beauty, Esterel is the perfect destination near Nice.
Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, this Natural Park and volcanic range of mountains has incredible red-colored rock formations, massive cliffs, and of course, beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before embarking on your journey from Nice to Esterel.
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In a hurry?
Taking a boat tour is definitely our most recommended way of exploring this beautiful area of the South of France.
You can book a boat tour to Esterel from Cannes or from Saint-Raphaël.
By the end of this guide, you will be fully prepared for a memorable vacation experience at one of France’s most gorgeous destinations.
How to get to Massif de l’Esterel from Nice
When it comes to getting from Nice to Esterel, you have a few options available.
it is important however, to note that even though there is public transportation available from Nice to Saint Raphael, the closest town to Esterel, you will need to rent a car, hire a driver or take a boat to the park (by far our most recommended option!).
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Nice to Esterel by car
If you decide to rent a car, the drive takes around an hour. Keep in mind that there will be tolls and that parking inside Esterel can be limited.
Nice to St Raphael or Cannes by bus or train
If you decide to take the bus, there is the 3003 bus that leaves from Nice Airport and goes directly to St Raphael.
To take the train, you will need to first take the bus or a taxi to Nice Ville train station, and then take one of the direct trains to St Raphael. The trip takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also stop in Cannes and take a boat from there.
→ Read: 22 Perfect Day Trips from Cannes, France
Once you arrive in Saint-Raphael, the park is only a few kilometers away. You can either take a boat, get a taxi or rent a car.
Esterel by boat
Taking a boat from Esterel is definitely the most scenic and enjoyable option, as you will enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as some of the stunning rock formations of l’Esterel, and even stop for swimming and snorkeling in this beautiful area.
You can take a boat tour to Esterel from either Cannes, Frejus, or St Raphael, and the tours usually take around 3 hours before returning.
📖 You might also enjoy: 12 Best tours to take on the French Riviera
If you can book in advance, we highly recommend taking a private tour as it isn’t much more expensive than the group ones and allow you to explore at your own pace.
Best boat tours to Esterel:
What to do in Esterel
Whether by land or sea, there are several different ways to experience Esterel.
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1) Hiking
Esterel is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. There are plenty of trails and paths to explore, but there are some of the most beautiful:
- Le Pic du Cap Roux depuis la Pointe de l’Observatoire
- Le Mont Saint-Martin
- Le tour du sommet des Grosses Grues
- Le col de la Cadière
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2) Snorkeling, swimming, and discovering hidden coves around Les Calanques de l’Esterel
Esterel is home to some of the clearest, turquoise waters in France, and swimming and snorkeling in this beautiful area is a must-do.
What makes this experience even more special is getting to also enjoy impressive views of Les Calanques de l’Esterel, the picturesque red-colored cliffs scattered throughout the area.
3) Exploring the local towns and of the Esterel
Since Esterel is a nature preserve, there are only a few towns in the area. Saint-Raphaël, Frejus, and Théoule-sur-Mer are two of the most popular towns to visit.
→ For another wonderful day trip idea, check out Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
4) Driving Corniche d’Or
The Corniche d’Or, also known as the Coastal Road, is a stunning scenic drive with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and Esterel.
The route stretches for miles along the coast, but the most beautiful part is the stretch between Mandelieu-la-Napoule and Saint Raphael, where you will be driving between the impressive red mountains of Massif de l’Esterel and the sea.
5) Visit Lake Saint-Cassien
The largest natural lake in the area and a bit of a hidden gem, Lake Saint-Cassien is a nature lover’s paradise.
Here. you can enjoy kayaking, horse-riding, and even rent a paddle boat.
6) Fondurane Ecological Reserve
The Fondurane Ecological Reserve is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers alike.
Here you can see some of the most stunning species, from eagles to hawks, vultures, and even pink flamingos.
7) Cycling the Route de la Corniche
Cycling the Route de la Corniche is a great way to explore Esterel and its surroundings at your own pace while getting to admire some of the area’s most spectacular views.
As we previously mentioned, the route stretches for 27 kilometers from Mandelieu-la-Napoule to Fréjus (or vice versa).
8) Scuba-diving in Cap Roux
Cap Roux is the largest and most beautiful of the rock formations of l’Esterel, and it’s an excellent spot for scuba-diving enthusiasts.
Here you can explore a variety of underwater caves and enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
9) Camping in Esterel
If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in nature, then camping in Esterel may just be the perfect way to experience this incredible region.
There are several campsites scattered throughout the area, some offering basic facilities and even some 5-star camping parks like this one.
Frequently asked questions about Calanques de l’Esterel
Lastly, we have covered some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Esterel.
What are the Calanques of the Esterel?
The Massif de l’Esterel is the mountain range behind Cannes. It is home to some of the most beautiful red-colored cliffs in France, known as Les Calanques de l’Esterel. The cliffs reach a height of 800 meters and span some 30 kilometers along the coast.
What are the best beaches in Esterel?
For the best beaches in Esterel, you can go to Saint-Raphaël, Frejus, or Roquebrune-sur-Argens.
Some of the most beautiful ones in the area include La Plage de l’Aiguille, La Plage du Sauce, and La Plage des Grottes.
Where to stay for visiting Esterel?
You can decide to base yourself in Cannes, Saint-Raphael, Frejus, Saint-Tropez, or even Nice.
Conclusion: A guide to visiting Esterel from Nice
That’s a wrap! Visiting Esterel from Nice is an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget.
From exploring the mountains to snorkeling in the coves and discovering hidden gems, Esterel is definitely one of the most unique and beautiful places in France.
Whether you choose to camp, drive along the Corniche d’Or, or explore the local towns – there are so many opportunities here that will make your visit unforgettable.
Oh! And if you are visiting the South of France soon, join my Facebook group for more hidden gems and travel tips. Happy travels!
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