Campsite rental Yelloh! Village close to the Estérel Massif

Closeup on the Estérel Massif

The Estérel Massif is a location that's steeped in history, and is the source of all sorts of anecdotes and legends, such as those which lead to its name. Legend has it that some women came to consult a fairy named Estérelle so as to become more fertile.

In actual fact, the Earth cracked apart due to movement of the tectonic plates, allowing lava to rise to the surface and thereby give the rock its purple hue. The real origin of the name of the massif may therefore stem from the derivation of the adjective "stérile", which would match the acid and poor soil of which it consists.

The plateau itself is said to have been created by a volcanic eruption 250 million years ago. Having previously been attached to the African continent, this slice of earth separated from it when the Mediterranean was formed. Subsequently, a section of the Estérel drifted off and became Corsica. On a few very clear mornings you can see the island from the upper slopes.

Rugged terrain, jagged landscapes and steep inlets dropping down to the Mediterranean are testament to its turbulent past, with some amazing scenery. The Estérel Massif, where the Mediterranean meets Provence, comprises a massif of 32,000 hectares and extends through the communes of Saint Raphael, Fréjus, Bagnols-en-Forêt and Les Adrets-de-l’Estérel.

On the menu 

As a protected Natura 2000 location, the Estérel Massif is without doubt one of France's loveliest natural destinations. This amazingly beautiful part of the world, with all sorts of fantastic features, is a paradise for people who love nature and the sea.

This jewel of the South of France is home to various extraordinary and inviting locations all along the Corniche d’Or. You'll be able to walk to various breathtaking viewpoints on the Med, which are perfect for lots of nature-focused activities. Among them are Cap Dramont, the Pic de l’Ours and Cap Roux. The Estérel Massif is a harsh environment, so don't forget to bring your sun cream if you are looking to walk the 51 km of coastline beneath the sun that shines here for 3000 hours annually!

Or maybe you'd rather spend your sun-drenched holiday beside the water? Then head for Le Dramont beach and paddle your kayak through the inlets of the Estérel. You'll discover some splendid caves and secret coves, which you can only get to from the sea. And after having enjoyed the surface, come and see the flora and fauna of Cap Dramont aboard an underwater glass-bottom boat called the Capitaine Némo. Something people of all ages will just love!

And now it's time to put on that wetsuit, grab a mask and snorkel and your best flippers, and set off to see the depths from even closer. You'll be off on an underwater adventure for people who just love the colours and beauties of the Med. Amazing sights and loads of excitement!

Thanks to its wealth of natural attractions, perfect for just lounging about, for excursions and for walking, the Estérel Massif will delight its visitors year after year!