Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Coastal Path (Paloma Beach and the Point)

The Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat coastal path follows the shoreline of the peninsula about 10 km east of Nice, on the French Riviera in the Alpes-Maritimes. The route usually starts at the Port de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Place du Centenaire, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and circles the point past Paloma Beach. Access from Nice is by Lignes d'Azur bus 15, though the current line and timetable should be confirmed at lignesdazur.com; another option is the TER to Beaulieu-sur-Mer followed by a walk of about 25 minutes. No permit or fee is required for the public coastal path. The distance is roughly 4 to 5 km around the point, and it depends on the sections chosen, taking 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace. The route is mostly at sea level, with short stairs and rises of under 40 m, so it is easy and suited to first-time walkers. The surface alternates between paved promenade, packed earth and rocky sections near the water, and in places the path runs close to the sea where waves can wet the rocks in rough weather. Shade comes from pines and the gardens bordering the path, though stretches by the sea are open. Landmarks include the harbour with its yachts, Paloma Beach, the lighthouse area at the tip of the peninsula, and glimpses of the private villas that make the cape known as one of the most exclusive stretches of the coast. Swimming spots along the rocks and small coves are popular in summer, and walkers can turn around at any beach if they want a shorter outing. Cafes at the port and beach restaurants sell drinks, but water should be carried for the quieter sections. There are no refuge huts, and bailing out is simple because roads and bus stops lie just inland. Public sections can be crowded on summer weekends, so quieter months suit those who want solitude.