Antibes to Saint Raphael Cycling Route
An intermediate ride along the Cote d'Azur coastline
There is no other way to discover the stunning coast of the Cote d’Azur than by bike. This bike ride is not the most challenging, as no serious hills are conquered, but it is a stunning way to explore the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur.
Our starting point was Antibes town centre and from here we headed toward the ocean, turned right toward Boulevard de la Garoupe and followed the coast road around the Cap d’Antibes. This route loops round the edge of the cap, keeping the glamorous estates to your right and their yacht equivalents lazily floating in the Mediterranean sea to your left. However you should pay attention to the road whilst taking in the views on this stretch of road as it is narrow with a lot of traffic.
As you approach the foot of the cap the road cuts inland across it and directs you back up towards the chic town of Juan-les-Pins. The road then rejoins the coast and takes you through the town’s high street. Along here we enjoyed the awe-inspiring yachts moored in the marina of Port camille Rayon in Golfe Juan. The town is more understated and simple, with a wide open road lined with Palm trees, whilst the flat landscape lets you admire the boats moored along the harbour.
Past Golfe Juan you pick up the signs to Cannes. Our trip had coincided with the Cannes Film Festival, so the roads were very busy along here. Nonetheless, it was not an unpleasant journey as there is a dedicated cycle lane which runs alongside the road.
On arrival into Cannes we came to a dead end, as the main coastal road was shut for the film festival and dominated by pedestrians. However, on a normal day this stretch of road would be beautiful to cycle along. The seafront shops consist of some of the biggest names of fashion, palm trees tower over the boulevard and the wide open beaches give a different feel to the rustic Cap d’Antibes.
The roads were calmer after exiting the town of Cannes, making the onward road very pleasant. We had been warned that the road would start to get more hilly from here, but for the section between Cannes and Theoule-sur-Mer, which was our next stop, they remained flat.
Continuing to follow signs to Frejus our stomachs finally got the better of us and we stopped for lunch in Theoule-sur-Mer. We found a great restaurant, Palazzo Pizzeria, overlooking the beach where we had a delicious, crispy-based Italian pizza and a salad with some of the best buffalo mozzarella.
After soaking up the rays, and food, we continued onward. Out of Theoule the road climbs gently up and you can see you are heading up the cliffs. The climbing is not long or strenuous and worth every peddle, from here onward the views are stunning. If you are making a full day of it pack your swimwear and park-up at one of the dozens of coves which could be your own private beach!
The undulating road finally drops gently into Le Dramont, a small beachside town, and we carried on through to end up at our final destination of Saint Raphael. We chose this as our stopping point as it is the last coastal town before you head slightly inland to Frejus. Naturally we ended up at a beach where we had a quick dip in the sea to cool off before jumping on the train back to Antibes.
This cycle route was my favourite of the holiday, mainly because of the views after Theoule-sur-Mer. They were stunning, the water in the coves was a beautiful colour of turquoise and the quiet roads meant you had all the time in the world to take in the scenery.
If you are looking to make this a little more challenging you can always extend the ride up to Frejus, which is the end point of the train line returning back towards Nice. Alternatively, you can turnaround and come back. Our route was approximately 45km and to extend the ride to Frejus would be adding another 10km.
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Cycle hire
Bike Hire 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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E-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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Town bike hire
Make the most of your holiday time and explore the French Rivieria on two wheels!
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Road bike hire
This company offers a great choice of bicycles, scooters and motorbikes for any duration - whether it’s a day, a week or even a month, you’ll have a bike at your disposal to explore the best of the Côte d'Azur.
What to see
Cannes was certainly an experience. We had a look around and took a peak at the red carpet. If you are not looking to clock the miles but instead to take in the sights I would highly recommend stopping in Cannes for a morning coffee before carrying on.
The views from Theoule sur Mer alone make this trip worth while. Stunning vistas over the azur Mediterranean waters.
Sights in Cannes
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Jardin Botanique de la Villa Thuret, Cap d'Antibes
When Gustave Thuret arrived in Cap d'Antibes, he fell in love with the wild nature of the place and bought five hectares on which to build his stunning villa and cultivate a beautiful park and gardens.
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Exflora Park, Juan les Pins
A magnificent example of Mediterranean gardens with a large olive grove, fountains and of course the wonderful Antibes roses!
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Espace Mer et Littoral (Graillon Tower), Cap d'Antibes
This museum is located in the Graillon Tower on the tip of the Cap d'Antibes. It boasts panoramic views from its large terrace.
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Musee Nationale de Fernand Leger, near Biot
A few months before his death in 1955, artist Fernand Léger acquired a farmhouse at the foot of the village of Biot. It was here that his widow Nadia Leger, decided to create a museum to honour him and showcase his life's work.
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Musee Picasso (Chateau Grimaldi)
The Picasso museum is housed in the Chateau Grimaldi in the centre of the town of Vallauris. The chateau was built over a Roman fort in the 16th century.
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Eglise de Biot, Saint Marie Madeleine church, Biot
Classified as a historic monument this 15th-century catholic church is located in the heart of the village of Biot.
Where to lunch
Theoule sur Mer makes the perfect half way stop for lunch. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and eateries on offer here.
Restaurants in Cannes
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La Table du Chateau Restaurant
The Château de la Tour feels like a private residence, offering an intimate and refined experience. With Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2000, Chef Didier Anies, at the helm, the restaurant is a true destination for elegance, creativity and exceptional cuisine - unique in Cannes.
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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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Le Park 45 Restaurant
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
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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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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Awarded one Michelin star, La Palme d'Or invites you to discover chef Jean Imbert’s culinary artistry in an unforgettable setting.
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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
Stopping at one of the many coves along the coastal road offers the perfect chance to take a cooling dip before carrying on your journey.
Things To Do in Cannes
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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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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 Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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.
