The 20 best spots on the French Riviera

Looking for a natural escape that’s truly breathtaking — without the fuss or the crowds? The Estérel Massif is just what you need.

Picture a movie-like setting: fiery red volcanic rocks diving into the Mediterranean Sea, endless stretches of Mediterranean vegetation, and panoramic views that evoke the Colorado or even the Calanques of Piana in Corsica.

Yes, really — this is our very own backyard!

Located between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer, this mountain range is often nicknamed the “green lung” of the Côte d’Azur.
 It’s one of the most striking landscapes along the coastline, with its umbrella pines, clifftop trails, and a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else on the Riviera.

The Estérel is a true playground for nature lovers.
 No neatly lined palm trees or crowded beaches here — just raw, wild nature waiting to be experienced to the fullest.

• Easy walks and hikes for everyone — even with young children
• Trail runs for the more athletic
• Guided electric mountain bike tours or self-guided rentals to explore the most stunning viewpoints effortlessly

• Must-do hikes: Pic d’Aurelle, Cap Roux, Mont Vinaigre — trails offering breathtaking views over the sea and red rocks
• Charming lakes and stunning natural contrasts between the green pines, red rocks, and deep blue Mediterranean
• Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch overlooking the sea or by a peaceful lake
• Bonus tip: catch the sunset from one of the peaks — a magical moment guaranteed
   

👉 Also worth reading: Our most beautiful hikes in the Estérel

The Corniche d’Or is one of the most beautiful scenic roads on the Côte d’Azur — and even in Europe.  Winding between the Estérel’s ochre cliffs and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea, every turn reveals a new postcard-perfect view. This stretch between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes captures the very essence of the Riviera’s coastal beauty.

Carved into the cliffside, it perfectly embodies the spirit of slow travel. No need to rush here — just savor each curve, each striking color contrast, and each wild cove below.

Whether by car, motorbike, or bicycle, the Corniche d’Or is yours to explore at your own pace. Plenty of pull-off areas let you stop for photos, take in the views, or follow a short trail down to the shoreline on the “Sentier du Littoral”.

• Set out early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy that perfect golden light for photos
• Make frequent stops to admire hidden coves, dramatic rock formations, and the sparkling sea
• Follow your instincts — if a cove calls you down to the water, go for it (you won’t regret it!)
   

 For a fun and nostalgic twist, try a tour on a vintage moped. You’ll be free to stop whenever and wherever you like, and soak in every moment of this iconic open-air adventure.

👉 Also worth reading: All you need to know about the Corniche d’Or

No need to go all the way to Cassis or Marseille to enjoy spectacular calanques — the Estérel Calanques, tucked between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer, offer an equally breathtaking setting.  Red cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, wild coves, sea caves… a condensed version of coastal beauty just a few steps away.

These hidden gems stretch along the iconic Corniche d’Or. Several small carpark areas make it easy to access the coves on foot. In just a few minutes, you can find yourself in a secluded cove with crystal-clear water — sometimes completely alone in the world.

The most beautiful spots are also reachable by kayak, paddleboard, or boat. And the magic continues underwater: natural arches, colorful fish, rocky seabeds… Don’t forget your snorkel gear to explore this little marine paradise.

 During peak season, parking fills up quickly. To enjoy the area peacefully, come early or take one of the coastal buses — a simple, budget-friendly, and practical alternative.

• Boat excursions on a catamaran, RIB boat, or shuttle to discover the calanques from the sea
• Kayak or paddleboard rentals to explore the cliffs at your own pace
• Jet ski outings for a dose of adrenaline between the coves
   

👉 Also check out: All our sea excursions in the Estérel Calanques

Between Saint-Raphaël and Agay, Cap Dramont offers one of the most striking landscapes on the Côte d’Azur. Here, fiery red volcanic rocks plunge into the deep blue Mediterranean sea, right across from the "Île d’Or" (The Gold Island) — crowned by a mysterious tower. Legend has it that this island even inspired Hergé’s The Black Island in the Tintin adventures.

This iconic spot is perfect for a nature walk, a sporty adventure, or a peaceful moment of contemplation between sea and cliffs.

• Walk along the coastal trail on the “sentier du Littoral” with breathtaking views of the Île d’Or — accessible to all
• Try the via cordata, a thrilling mix of hiking and climbing
• Paddle or kayak around the island for a full 360° view
• Hop on a giant paddleboard with your family, even with young children, to explore Cap Dramont’s hidden coves
• Go scuba diving — Île d’Or is a renowned spot for its rich marine life and dramatic underwater landscapes
• Take a boat or jet ski tour from Saint-Raphaël or Fréjus and drop anchor at the foot of the island for a timeless escape
   

Bonus tip: Head there in the late afternoon. At sunset, the red rocks of Cap Dramont seem to catch fire — a magical sight not to be missed.

👉 Also worth reading: Our full guide to exploring the area around the Île d’Or

Just a short walk away from l’Escalet Beach in Ramatuelle lies one of the most unspoiled gems of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: Cap Taillat.  This wild peninsula, accessible only on foot or by sea, is a true haven of peace — far from the hustle and bustle of Saint-Tropez.

Here, nature takes center stage: soft sandy beaches, rocky coves, Mediterranean vegetation, and crystal-clear water create a postcard-worthy setting. Every bend in the trail reveals a new breathtaking view. It’s the perfect spot for a coastal walk, a peaceful escape, or a snorkeling session in translucent waters.

• A car-free, 100% natural site with a peaceful, almost island-like vibe
• Remarkable biodiversity both on land and underwater
• Spectacular viewpoints overlooking the peninsula’s rugged capes
• Postcard-perfect landscapes and shimmering turquoise water

• Catamaran or RIB boat excursions, with several departure ports: Saint-Raphaël, Cogolin, Pampelonne, or Le Lavandou. Onboard: swimming breaks in turquoise coves, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pure relaxation in a wild, exclusive setting
• Jet ski tours from Fréjus, reaching the Cap by sea for a thrilling adventure
• Nature walks with passionate local guides, to discover the rich Mediterranean flora and fauna
• Self-guided snorkeling in crystal-clear waters — ideal for observing the underwater scenery
   

👉 Also worth reading: Boat excursions to Cap Taillat