Île Sainte-Marguerite is the larger of the two Lérins Islands, about 3 km long and 900 m wide, and lies roughly 1 km off the Cannes waterfront in the Alpes-Maritimes department of France. A flat loop of around 5 to 6 km follows the shore path and the shaded forest tracks of Aleppo pine, eucalyptus and holm oak that cover most of the island. The route starts at the ferry landing on the north shore, passes the Fort Royal built under Richelieu and enlarged by Vauban, where the prison cell of the Man in the Iron Mask can be visited, and continues along the south coast with views back to the Croisette, the Esterel and, on clear days, the Alps. The Étang du Batéguier, a small brackish pond, attracts herons. Surfaces are compacted gravel and sand with no steep sections. Ferries from Quai Laubeuf in the Old Port take about 15 minutes. The island is a protected site, so fires, camping and cycling off the main tracks are not allowed.
| Distance | About 5 to 6 km loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 to 3 hours plus fort visit |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Ferry from Quai Laubeuf (Old Port) to Île Sainte-Marguerite, about 15 minutes |
| Best season | Year-round; April-June and September-October ideal |
| Address | Embarcadère Île Sainte-Marguerite, 06400 Cannes, France |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Lérins Islands, 15 minutes by boat from Cannes
- Trail type
- loop
- Terrain
- gravel track and forest path
What to bring
Water, hat, sun cream, closed shoes; picnic is permitted in designated areas only
Location
Embarcadère Île Sainte-Marguerite, 06400 Cannes, France
43.5185, 7.0495 View on map
Highlights
- Fort Royal and the cell of the Man in the Iron Mask
- Shaded pine and eucalyptus forest tracks
- Views of the Cannes skyline and the Esterel from the south shore
- Étang du Batéguier birdlife
- Swimming coves along the south coast
Tips for visiting
- Take the first ferry from Quai Laubeuf to enjoy the loop before the day-trippers arrive
- Carry water, as the island has only a few kiosks near the landing
- Wear sturdy sandals or trainers; the rocky coves are slippery
When to visit
April to June and September to October offer mild temperatures and fewer visitors. Mid-summer is hot with little shade.
Accessibility
The main loop is level and mostly suitable for strollers on the wide gravel tracks, although the fort has stairs and uneven ground. The ferry quay is accessible.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Île Sainte-Marguerite from Cannes?
Passenger ferries leave Quai Laubeuf beside the Old Port and cross in roughly 15 minutes; a return ticket costs about EUR 17 (~$20), with timetables published by the ferry operators.
Can I swim on the island?
Yes. Rocky coves on the south and west shores are used for swimming in summer, but there are no lifeguards on most of them.