The mountain range ofEstérel red rocks and the Mediterranean
There are landscapes on the French Riviera that are instantly recognizable.
L'Estérel It is part of it.
Here, the red volcanic rocks plunge towards a deep blue Mediterranean.
Between Saint-Raphaël and Mandelieu-la-Napoule, The mountain range offers spectacular panoramas, coves, beaches and numerous hiking opportunities.
The Corniche d'Or: a legendary road
The best way to discover theEstérel For a first visit, it's probably best to take the Golden Corniche.
This spectacular road connects Saint-Raphaël to Mandelieu over a distance of about thirty kilometers.
It was inaugurated in 1903 and has even served as a backdrop for several famous films.
It can be travelled by car, motorcycle or bicycle.
But most importantly: Don't be in a hurry.
The viewpoints regularly invite visitors to stop and admire the scenery.
The spectacle of the red rocks
L'Estérel is remarkable for the contrast of its colours.
On one side: the red and ochre of the volcanic massif.
On the other hand: the blue of the Mediterranean.
Between the two, the green of the scrubland and pine trees.
This contrast largely explains the reputation of the mountain range.
Beaches and coves
A dozen beaches and small coves dot the coastline of the Corniche d'Or.
Some are accessible via stairs from the road.
There you will find red pebbles, rocks, clear waters and seabeds particularly favorable for snorkeling.
The Maubois cove
Among the lesser-known places, I particularly recommend the Maubois cove.
It is located 51 minutes and 31 km from Jasmins Studio.
This small red pebble beach has clear water and is particularly suitable for snorkeling and paddleboarding.
It also provides an excellent starting point for exploring the landscapes of Trayas and the massif.
Dramont and Cap Roux
The mountain range also offers numerous hiking opportunities.
The sectors of Dramont and of the Cap Roux They allow you to gain altitude and discover remarkable panoramas of the coastline.
I made a video during a walk in the canton of Dramont.
→ Watch this video (1 min 33s)
Mountain biking enthusiasts will also find many routes in the mountain range.
L'Estérel on foot, by bike… or accompanied
You can explore the mountain range:
- on foot,
- by bicycle,
- by mountain bike
- with a guide,
- on a guided tour,
- and even through certain more sporting activities.
Guided minibus excursions, sunset hikes, electric mountain biking, and climbing activities are offered depending on the area.
For a first visit, I would recommend the Corniche d'Or and a few short walks..
It would be a shame to spend the day chasing after kilometers.
When to discover theEstérel ?
The mountain range can be explored almost all year round, but not all seasons lend themselves to the same activities.
Spring, autumn and winter : particularly pleasant for walking and hiking.
Summer: ideal for enjoying the coves and sea outings, but the mountains may be temporarily closed due to the risk of fire.
Before any summer hike, Be sure to check the access conditions to the mountain range.
L'Estérel and the Mimosa Route
There is another reason to discover theEstérel in winter.
At this time, the mountain range is located in the heart of the mimosa territory.
From Mandelieu and Tanneron, the Route du Mimosa joins Saint-Raphaël before continuing towards the Var.
We can therefore associate: mimosa → Tanneron → Mandelieu → Corniche d’Or → Estérel.
This is probably one of the most beautiful winter excursions imaginable since Jasmins Studio.
A perfect day in theEstérel
Morning
Jasmins Studio → Mandelieu → Corniche d'Or.
Take the time to stop at the viewpoints.
Noon
Lunch in the Théoule, Trayas or Agay area.
Afternoon
A beach or a short hike.
Why not the Maubois cove if you wish to focus on swimming and snorkeling.
Back
Continue along the Corniche d'Or to Saint-Raphaël, then return to Jasmins Studio.
Discoveries along the Mimosa Route:
→ Mandelieu-la-Napoule: between sea, mimosa and Estérel
→ The Mimosa Route
→ Bormes-les-Mimosas and Estagnol beach
→ The Grasse region: flowers, perfumes and gardens
Also worth discovering:
→ Cannes: the must-sees
→ The most beautiful hilltop villages of the French Riviera
→ The Napoleon Route from Golfe-Juan