Legend has it that a fairy named Esterelle, from the Provençal word estelà meaning "star," resides amidst the purple rocks of the Estérel massif. Long ago, women would come to her seeking to ensure they would become mothers. This fairy, with her miraculous powers, left such a lasting impression that the volcanic massif itself bears her name. Spanning 30,000 hectares, it preserves traces of numerous civilizations of the Mediterranean basin, from the first prehistoric humans to the Romans. In the Middle Ages, the Estérel became a refuge for hermits, including Saint Honorat. The cave that sheltered him was named Saint-Honorat.
The Estérel Massif > 100% Nature
A true open-air playground for hikers and mountain bikers or e-bike enthusiasts , a multitude of tracks and trails offer routes that can vary infinitely amidst the maquis plants.
Hiking in the Estérel
Hiking in the Estérel is a real eye-catcher! Hikers enjoy the view of the sparkling blue waters of the sea which contrast with the red of the rock.
The marked trails cover 32,000 hectares, 13,000 of which are classified and protected. The highest point is Mont Vinaigre, reaching 614 meters. You'll have the pleasure of enjoying a picnic in the heart of nature and ending your invigorating walk with a swim in one of the coves or beaches along the coast.
Practical ! Discover “The 15 most beautiful hikes starting from Mandelieu” > brochure on sale at the Mandelieu Tourist Office (5 euros).
A glimpse into History
The Estérel Massif was torn from the African continent during the formation of the Mediterranean 250 million years ago.
Its color and rugged terrain are due to volcanic activity. The coves plunging into the Mediterranean bear witness to this turbulent geological history, offering stunning landscapes: scarlet rock formations, viewpoints on the Corniche d'Or , fragrant massifs, mysterious caves, panoramas where the sea meets the sky.
Corniche d'Or
Mythical ! The Corniche d'Or is a site of incomparable beauty which remains among the must-sees of the Côte d'Azur.
During your stay in Mandelieu, do not hesitate to take this tourist route to witness it. The Corniche d'Or follows the route of the railway path and thus crosses various seaside resorts such as Trayas, Agay, Dramont... It is distinguished by its perfect symbiosis with the coastline. Given the rugged terrain of the Alpes-Maritimes, the Corniche d'Or road does not always run along the sea at its 0 level. It sometimes moves away from it, positioned on cornices at various altitudes.
A glimpse into History
The Corniche d'Or runs along the seaside and the Estérel massif.
Built at the beginning of the 20th century at the initiative of the Touring Club de France, it is one of the most spectacular roads in France . Driving along it provides constant wonder, with exceptional panoramas between the red volcanic rocks of the massif and the azure blue of the Mediterranean.
