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.
Cannes to Saint Raphael
A cycle along the coastal cliffs of the Esterel mountains
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.
Cycle hire
Bike Hire in Cannes
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E-bike hire
Quality e-bike rentals to explore the French Riviera
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Road bike hire
Quality road bike rentals with delivery to the French Riviera
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 & Town Bike Hire
Cycle along the Croisette, explore historic streets and enjoy stunning Riviera views
Make the most of your stay in Cannes with a flexible bike hire service offering a range of models to suit every type of rider. From comfortable city bikes and powerful e-bikes to mountain bikes and children's bikes, you'll find everything needed for a day of sightseeing, beach hopping or exploring the Riviera coastline.
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Town bike hire
City bike and e-bike rentals in Cannes with flexible options and local expertise
Make the most of your holiday time and explore the French Rivieria on two wheels!
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Road bike hire
The largest French network of two wheel rentals on the French Riviera
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
Sights in Cannes
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Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael
Beautiful church built at the end of 19th century inspired by the church of Saint Sophie in Istanbul
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
Dramatic scenery, imposing cliffs and secluded coves near 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
This cathedral in central Fréjus is part of a larger fortified medieval complex
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
Displaying Fréjus’s archaeological heritage, mainly from the Roman period
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)
Zoo where you can see animals from all around the world as well as Mediterranean plants
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
Rugged landscape of red rock stretching from Provence to the coastline
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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La Table du Chateau Restaurant
Refined seasonal cuisine inspired by nature, tradition and the château’s own garden
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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La Plage 45 Beach Club
Grand Hotel's private beach club and restaurant
Just a short walk through the hotel garden and you can sink your feet into the soft white sand of the Grand Hotel's private beach, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the water.
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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Fine dining and Mediterranean views at one of Cannes’ most acclaimed restaurants
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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Fouquet's Restaurant
Parisian elegance meets Michelin-starred cuisine in Cannes
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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L'Or Bleu Restaurant, Theoule-sur-Mer
Michelin-starred dining with surprise menus and breathtaking sea views
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.
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Carlton Beach Club
Taste of the Riviera with views over the sparkling bay and a touch of French Dolce Vita
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.
What to do
Things To Do in Cannes
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Luxury Tayarrah Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to eleven people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to twelve people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Road bike hire
Quality road bike rentals with delivery to the French Riviera
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
Wide selection of BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson and Triumph motorcycles available for rent
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
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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Motor Yacht REHAB - French Riviera Weekly Yacht Charter
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to twelve people
Take a trip on board this luxury yacht along the Riviera, to any destination of your choosing.
