Les Balcons d'Azur, Saint Raphael
An intermediate to advanced level ride in the Esterel
A circular route that takes in several climbs in the beautiful Esterel National Park, between Saint Raphael and the city of Cannes.
This route has been officially graded as a red route, meaning that it is not suitable for beginners or for those who are not used to mountain biking.
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What to see
Sights in Cannes
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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
This beautiful church was built as part of the plans by Mayor Felix Martin to "transform" St Raphael into a more attractive town for people to live in and tourist resort. Abbot Bernard commissioned the project to architect Pierre Aublé.
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Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael
Les Calanques de l'Esterel are rocky inlets and coves that expand from Saint-Raphael to Mandelieu-la-Napoule and drop steeply into the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
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Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus
Dating back to the 5th century when the baptistery was built makes it the oldest in the Provence region and one of the oldest in France. At this ancient, Merovingian style baptistery you can still see a 5th century baptismal basin for full immersion, as well as Roman columns.
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L'Esterel National Park
A volcanic range of mountains covering around 32,000 hectares and stretching between Saint-Raphael and Theoule-sur-Mer.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Cannes
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Carlton Beach Club
Soak up the sunshine and sea breeze over lunch at the Carlton Beach Club, where local flavours, fresh ingredients and a touch of French Dolce Vita come together by the water’s edge.
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Le Park 45 Restaurant
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
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Le Jardin Restaurant
Ideally located on the hill in Cannes, the Hotel de Mougins is only five minutes from Sophia Antipolis, ten minutes from Cannes and Grasse, and twenty five minutes from Nice International Airport.
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La Plage Belles Rives Beach Club, Juan les Pins
Soft white sand, a private pontoon, a lounge bar and a restaurant at the water's edge make this beach club a very special place to be.
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Fouquet's Restaurant
Le Fouquet's at the Hôtel Le Majestic combines Parisian charm with culinary excellence, led by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. A timeless spot for culture and cuisine lovers in Cannes.
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Le Roof Restaurant
Le Roof at Hotel Five Seas combines refined gastronomy, breathtaking views, and a welcoming atmosphere. From gourmet breakfasts to creative lunches, the restaurant offers a range of exceptional dining experiences. The Lounge Bar is a perfect spot for cocktail lovers, offering signature drinks and a chic, trendy setting.
What to do
Things To Do in Cannes
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Luxury Tayarrah Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Club des Dauphins Swimming School
Based in the public beach of Bijou Plage in Cannes, this swimming school on the Côte d'Azur has been in operation since 1962 and is led by Thierry, a fully qualified skiing, swimming and fitness instructor.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Directions
From Colle Douce, take the path towards Mont Vinaigre to the Forestry Commission building at Porfait. Taking a portion of paved road from here you will reach the Forestry Commission building at Malpey.
On your right take the road towards the Col de l’Olivier (denoted by a headstone) and continue along the main road to the Forestry Commission building of La Duchessa. Continue up (straight) to reach the Baisse Violette, then the Col des Suvières.
After this turn right towards Grosse Vache and the Col du Mistral. A paved path will then take you right to the Forestry Commission building of Roussivau.
At the gate turn right and follow the Castelli trail that will lead you back to your starting point.