8.3/10
camping Saint Louis
La Roquette-sur-Siagne,Alpes Maritimes
Lérins Islands
A closer look at Lérins Islands
Off the Côte d’Azur, you’ll find a series of idyllic islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Although the majority are located in Var, such as Hyères Islands or Le Levant, there is a magnificent archipelago in Alpes-Maritimes. Welcome to Lérins Islands, in the Golfe de la Napoule, not far from Cannes. This name refers to four islands, the smaller two of which are: Îlot Saint-Ferréol and Îlot de la Tradelière. The larger two islands are: Île Sainte-Marguerite and Île Saint-Honorat, which serve as the main draw for tourists to the Lérins Islands.
Inhabited since the 6th century BC, Lérins Islands are a Mediterranean paradise, with their lush natural surroundings and climate typical of the region. Their numerous benefits, which now attract holidaymakers, were highly prized by kingdoms and populations of the past. This is evidenced by the various fortresses built on the islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat.
They were constructed by and for Ligurians, Romans, Cistercian monks, Saracen pirates, Vauban, the Man in the Iron Mask, contemporary artists… All of these people flocked to the archipelago and left their mark, whether physical or symbolic, on the islands. From sea trips to tours of monuments, with moments of relaxation surrounded by nature… Lérins Islands are a real breath of fresh air. You’ll feel as if time is standing still.
So, if you’re staying at a campsite in Alpes-Maritimes or Var, don’t miss the chance to pay a visit. The islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat are really worth the trip, whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast or a beach lover.
3 campsites found
campings Alpes Maritimes
campings Var
8.3/10
camping Domaine du Colombier
Fréjus,Var
8.6/10
camping La Plage du Dramont
Saint-Raphaël,Var
Activities
No matter which island you visit, your trip will start with a boat ride. The journey from Cannes harbour to Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat provides an opportunity to see some breathtaking scenery. What’s more, as you leave the mainland behind, you’ll get a stunning view of the Massif de l’Estérel mountain range. Similarly, the scarcely trodden island paths offer exhilarating scenery.
On both islands, there are numerous footpaths. These paths allow visitors to explore the different aspects of the islands.
On Île Saint-Honorat, you can visit numerous points of interest. The Crique de Lérins cove is the perfect spot to enjoy a view of the Mediterranean. Next, head further east to explore two majestic locations: the impressive Lérins Abbey which dates back to the 11th century, and the Fortress of Saint-Honorat, built to protect the abbey. If you’re particularly interested in places of worship, make sure to tour the island. That way, you’ll be able to visit all of the chapels: Trinité, Saint-Sauveur and Saint-Caprais.
There’s also plenty to see and do on Île Sainte-Margeurite. When it comes to nature, the national forest with its green oak trees and Aleppo pines is the perfect place for a stroll. It offers a beautiful example of the plant life on the Côte d’Azur. Sainte-Marguerite is also home to some famous fortresses, including the Fort Royal. Although the foundations were laid in the 5th century, the version that is currently standing has undergone numerous modifications. The most famous of these were undertaken by Vauban, in the late 17th century.
The Fort Royal is also known for having been a state prison. It housed Huguenots in the 16th century, as well as another famous prisoner: the Man in the Iron Mask. His identity, which remains a mystery today, meant that this prisoner was the most notorious in the kingdom. There are numerous theories about this figure, the most well-known of which is that he was the brother of Louis VIV. The former prison is now a museum dedicated to the Man in the Iron Mask.
Finally, Île Sainte-Margeurite also has some stunning beaches that are perfect for sunbathing. And don’t forget to go for a dip. Even better, if you take a mask and snorkel, you can admire the amazing underwater sculptures.
There are so many activities and places to visit, so don’t miss the chance to visit Lérins Islands if you’re camping on the Côte d’Azur.
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