Cannes to Saint Raphael
A cycle along the coastal cliffs of the Esterel mountains
This intermediate cycle offers a wonderful contrast of colours as you pass the reds and ochres of the Esterel rock on one side and rippling azur waters of the Mediterranean coastline on the other. A local favourite, you won't be the only one on the road if you ride during the summer or on weekends.
Beginning on the Cannes Croisette you immediately enjoy the coastal views of the Bay of Cannes as you follow the cycle paths around to the Palais de Festivals and Le Vieux Port. A slow cycle along the marina edge allows you to see some of the superyachts up close and personal.
The road that leaves Cannes is narrow and can be lined with parked cars so take car to give them plenty of room and be aware that they might not see you. Following the coastal road alongside the train you will cycle round the curve of the Golfe de la Napoule and past the small airport of Mandelieu la Napoule, past the Golf Cub de Cannes and on past several ports to headland of Theole sur Mer.
A favourite route for local cyclists you will find plenty of others on the same road, which is in fact the main road that runs along the coast. It can get busy with car traffic, especially on the weekends. Luckily if you feel that it is getting a bit much there are plenty of escape routes to the coast that are worth a little detour. Beaches line much of the route if you feel the need to dip your toes in the water and cool off. Or for some great scenery then stopping off at the Sémaphore du Dramont and the Pointe de l'Esquillon will take you away from the busy road and to a quiet view point.
Before you reach Saint Raphael you will pass around the horseshoe bay of Rade d'Agay where the water is dotted with yachts and boats and the Esterel mountains offer a red and green backdrop. the views of the sea become more sporadic as you make your way through the streets that lead you into Saint Raphael, before you turn north west and follow the harbour lines with palm trees, and the pretty coastal promenade into the heart of the town.
If you feel fit enough then reverse the 36km journey and cycle back to Cannes or alternatively, jump on the train and enjoy the leisurely journey back, knowing that you have burnt enough calories to treat yourself to a nice meal out.
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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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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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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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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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
The town of Saint Raphael offers a good choice of restaurants and beach clubs along the coastline. A visit to the morning market will provide you a delicious picnic that you can enjoy at any point giving you the freedom to settle where you find the most inspiring views or the calmest of waters to dip your toes.
Restaurants 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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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 Passagère Restaurant
La Passagère at Hôtel Belles Rives offers a refined culinary journey shaped by the creative talents of Chef Aurélien Véquaud and Pastry Chef Steve Moracchini. Set against a stunning Riviera backdrop, this restaurant pairs inspired cuisine with a spectacular setting.
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La Plage du Martinez
La Plage du Martinez blends relaxed elegance with gourmet flair, offering Mediterranean dishes by Chef Jean Imbert in a stunning seafront 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.
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L'Or Bleu Restaurant, Theoule-sur-Mer
L'Or Bleu, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an unforgettable dining experience where cuisine is elevated to the level of art. Set in an elegant, contemporary setting with breathtaking views over the bay of Théoule-sur-Mer, this Relais & Châteaux establishment is the perfect place for a memorable evening.
What to do
Things To Do in Cannes
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Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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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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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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
