Cannes to Saint Raphael

A cycle along the coastal cliffs of the Esterel mountains

Imprint: Updated 26 March 2025

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.

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

Mountain bike hire

Location
Saint Tropez

This company has been serving Saint Tropez for over 20 years.

What to see

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Victoire, Saint Raphael

Distance from location
<1 km

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.
Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael

Distance from location
<1 km

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.
Fréjus Cathedral, Fréjus

Distance from location
2.7 km

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.
Archaeology Museum, Fréjus

Distance from location
2.7 km

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.
Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)

Distance from location
6.2 km

Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
L'Esterel National Park

Distance from location
9.3 km

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.

The Pationata Restaurant

Location
Saint Tropez

This restaurant is situated within the luxury Hotel de Paris and is run by the Michelin Starred chef Philippe Guerin.
Matsuhisa Restaurant

Location
Saint Tropez

Discover pan-Asian cuisine in all its splendour, with breathtaking views of the Pampelonne Bay.
La Palmeraie Restaurant, La Croix Valmer

In the heart of an Andalusian garden or on the terrace opening on to the park, you can enjoy a dinner under the stars in a calm and authentic Provencal environment.
Colette Restaurant

Renowned for its fine and distinguished cuisine, the talented chef creates tasty southern flavoured compositions served on the luxury terrace.
La Voile Restaurant, Ramatuelle

Open to all, the starred restaurant provides an opportunity to get to know La Réserve Ramatuelle in the most delicious possible manner.
La Ponche Restaurant

Location
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.

What to do

Luxury Chantella Yacht Trip

Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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.
Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer

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.
Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime

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.
Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip

Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Luxury To Escape Yacht Trip

Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.