Ile Saint-Honorat
A short walk around an island with 16 centuries of monastic history
The small island off the coast of Cannes was uninhabited until Saint Honoratus founded a monastery on it sometime around the year 410. The island has seen many invaders who over the years have driven out and even massacred the monks, but they have returned and today the island is home to 30 Cistercian monks.
The island is a popular tourist attraction offering pleasant woodland surroundings. The island has a number of disused chapels erected by the monks, and the Abbey of Lerins and the 15th century fortified monastery are all open to visitors. The monks also produce wine and honey on the island that is available to buy.
What to see
Sights in Cannes
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Abbaye de Lerins Monastery (Lerins Abbey), Ile Saint-Honorat
Located on the island of Saint Honorat, the abbey is still occupied by monks. It's possible to receive a guided tour and re-charge your spiritual batteries.
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Fort Royal Museum, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
In 1617, the Duke of Guise gave Jean de Bellon the task of building a fort intended to block sea access to Cannes. Constructed between 1624 and 1627 on the site of remains that dated back to Roman antiquity, at the time it was nothing more than a simple fortified house.
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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
Situated within the Royal Fort on Ile Sainte-Marguerite in the Bay of Cannes, this museum is a place not only of learning but also of rich history.
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St Michael the Archangel Russian Orthodox Church
Set within the affluent residential area of Quartier de la Californie, is the pretty Church of Saint Michael the Archangel.
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St George's Church
To the west of the town centre is the church of Saint George, built in a typically English Neo-Gothic style.
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Promenade de la Croisette
The Promenade de la Croisette is the true heart of Cannes. Under the shade of pine and palm trees, this boardwalk stretches for over three kilometres. A great place to soak up the sun and the sea breeze while you check out the best luxury shops and hotels.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Cannes
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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 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 Riviera Restaurant
Riviera brings the flavours of the Mediterranean to life with fresh market produce and the catch of the day, served in a stylish brasserie setting overlooking the sea.
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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 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
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 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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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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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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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.
Directions
From the ferry terminal follow to the right (west) the wide walkway that encircles the island. At the far western end you will find the St. Caprais chapel, rebuilt in 1993 on the medieval remains of walls. Following the path east along the south of the island, the walkway goes under shady crooked pines that protect the vines from the onshore winds, and also house the statue of St. Anthony and the St. Peter Chapel.
After visiting the monastery and the surrounding vineyards continue along the sea along a large wall to reach the eastern tip of the island, facing the small rocky island of St. Fereol. In a secret clearing in the middle of some shady pine woods you can find the Trinity Chapel, turned into a fortress by the Spaniards in 1635. Returning back to the coastal path, follow it west back towards the starting point.
