The Esterel Massif
100% natural! A vast playground for hikers, lovers of mountain bike or e-bike who will find there a multitude of tracks and paths which can vary to infinity in the middle of the plants of the maquis.
Hiking in the Estérel
To take full eyes! Hikers appreciate the view of the sparkling blue waters of the sea which contrast with the red of the rock.
The marked trails are traced over 32 hectares, 000 of which are classified and protected. The highest point is Mont Vinaigre which reaches 13 m. You will have the pleasure of enjoying a good picnic in the middle of nature and to finish your sporty outing with a swim in one of the coves or beaches along the coast.
The Estérel Departmental Park
Hike idea! From the Port of La Rague, go up the valley towards the Maure Vieille valley.
Panoramic views of the coast and the entire massif are particularly exceptional, especially from the Trayas and Théoule passes.
More information
- Area: 700 hectares above Mandelieu-La Napoule and Théoule-sur-Mer.
- Characteristics: many tracks are used by firefighters (DFCI), and various trails that make them particularly accessible.
- You may be accompanied by a professional guide for your first hikes or if you need a route map (video map, ONF map), do not hesitate to come and meet us directly at the reception desk of the Mandelieu-La Napoule Tourist Office.
The history of the Estérel Massif
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 creeks plunging into the Mediterranean testify to this turbulent geological history which offer astonishing landscapes: scree of scarlet rocks, belvederes on Corniche d'Or, fragrant massifs, mysterious caves, panoramas where the sea meets the sky.
The fauna and the flora : lentisks, heathers, cistus, locusts, arbutus, junipers, cork oaks, pubescents, Aleppo pines. Animals: stags, wild boars, lizards, beetles and butterflies share this corner of paradise.
Corniche d'Or
True place of natural attraction. The Corniche d'Or is a site of incomparable beauty which remains one of the must-sees of the Côte d'Azur. During your stay in Mandelieu, do not hesitate to take this tourist route to witness it.
A little bit of history
The Corniche d'Or runs along the seaside and the Estérel massif. Built at the start of the XNUMXth century on the initiative of the Touring Club de France, it is one of the most spectacular roads in France. Going through it provides a wonder at every moment. Exceptional panoramas between the volcanic red rocks of the massif and the azure blue of the Mediterranean.
Good to know
The Corniche d'Or follows the route of the railway and thus crosses various seaside resorts such as Trayas, Agay, Dramont... It is famous for its perfect symbiosis with the coast. Given the tormented relief 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 ledges at various altitudes.
The team's advice Mandelieu Tourism
The Corniche d'Or conceals hidden creeks and wild creeks where small beaches nestle.
