Explore the beautiful area that is the Massif de l'Esterel, from Théoule-sur-Mer and its foothills overlooking the Mediterranean, their high cliffs with purple hues and the unusual landscapes of the Alpes-Maritimes.
Circuit des Monges, Theoule-sur-mer
An easy mountain bike circuit that takes you through the Esterel
The Rocher des Monges, sits at the central point of this circuit, and rises to 300m. A good example of the volcanic massif, it consists of compact lava, that has eroded over the years to create numerous caves and unexpected lunar sculptures. The entire route is carried on good trails that means this is a good bike ride for beginners to enjoy; a pleasant circuit in a particularly attractive setting.
What to see
Sights in Saint-Tropez
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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.
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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
A museum of underwater archeology and land plus Iron Mask prison cell
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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Abbaye de Lerins Monastery (Lerins Abbey), Ile Saint-Honorat
Visit this charming 5th century abbey which is still a working monastery
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
The infamous prison that housed the Man in the Iron Mask
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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Malpasset Dam (Barrage de Malpasset)
The ruins of a dam between Frejus and the city of Cannes
The Malpasset Dam is known for the disaster it caused on 2 December, 1959. Today it's the end point of the hike leading up to the ruins.
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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.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Saint-Tropez
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La Ponche Restaurant
Restaurant with sea view terrace in Saint-Tropez
The gourmet restaurant’s secluded dining room offers a splendid view on Saint-Tropez’s bay. In total secrecy, the hosts can dream along as they admire beautiful landscapes that resemble works of art.
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Jardin Tropezina Beach Club
Mediterranean cuisine served in a relaxed atmosphere
Situated at the north end of the infamous Pampelonne beach you will find that beach umbrellas and mattresses are available for a quiet afternoon in the sun by the sea.
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Colette Restaurant
In an elegant setting enjoy gastronomic cuisine at the Sezz Hotel
Renowned for its fine and distinguished cuisine, the talented chef creates tasty southern flavoured compositions served on the luxury terrace.
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The Pationata Restaurant
Chic, quality restaurant with fabulous terrace
This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
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La Voile Restaurant, Ramatuelle
Michelin-starred restaurant in La Reserve Hotel & Spa
Open to all, the starred restaurant provides an opportunity to get to know La Réserve Ramatuelle in the most delicious possible manner.
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B Lounve-Bar and Restaurant
Located in the hip and chic Hotel Byblos
At the heart of the hotel, next to the pool, le "B" evolves in keeping with your whims. Breakfast in the shade of lemon trees, lunch by the pool, cocktails at sunset, dinner on the terrace, a hunger pang during the night, whatever time, day or night, le "B" will grant your slightest whim.
What to do
Things To Do in Saint-Tropez
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Luxury A4A Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip on board this luxury yacht along the Riviera, cruising to any destination of your choice.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
A really family orientated waterpark with slides & a flying boat
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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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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Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
11 super water slides, rapids & a flying boat, great for the family
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
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Luxury Lizard 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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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.
Directions
From the town of Théoule-sur-Mer follow the road towards the seafront of Frejus. After a few hundred metres, turn right onto a small steep road going towards the cemetary (look for the sign "piste des Saoumes"). Beyond this, at a housing estate, proceed on the trail of Saoumes (access gate) which, via an undulating path, leads to the col of Théoule-sur-Mer.
Take the ascending track to the col du Trayas (235m) at the foot of the Rocher des Monges. The track passes the summit by the west. After this turn right and go down towards Théoule-sur-Mer by the trail of Miners (piste des Mineurs) and a small road to return to your starting point (after passing under the railway).
Alternative route - bike around the summit of Grosses Grues (441m) from the col du Trayas (235m). Follow the trail of the three cols until the col de la Cadiere (241m) and then go back on the road at the col Notre Dame (324m), continue down the Grues trail that brings you to the col du Trayas.
