Just a few minutes by boat from the Five Seas Cannes, another world awaits. A world of preserved nature, soothing silence, secret coves, and centuries-old history. Welcome to the Lérins Islands, an insular treasure in the heart of the Mediterranean, perfect for a timeless escape.
Two islands, two distinct atmospheres
The Lérins archipelago is made up of two main islands: Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat.
Sainte-Marguerite, the larger of the two, is a natural paradise covered with Aleppo pines and eucalyptus trees, crisscrossed with shaded paths. It also houses the famous Fort Royal, once the prison of the enigmatic Man in the Iron Mask. A visit to the Museum of the Iron Mask and the Royal Fort, located inside the fortress, offers a fascinating dive into the island’s past.
Saint-Honorat, more discreet and tranquil, has been inhabited for over 16 centuries by a community of Cistercian monks. The island invites peaceful reflection, with its vineyards tended by the monks, abbey ruins, and small coves ideal for a serene swim.
Activities at your own pace
Exploring the Lérins Islands can be done freely, entirely at your own rhythm:
- Hiking: Several marked trails allow you to walk around the islands and enjoy breathtaking views over the Bay of Cannes and the crystal-clear waters.
- Snorkeling: In Sainte-Marguerite’s coves, especially near Pointe du Dragon, the Mediterranean seabed reveals a rich marine life.
- Picnicking under the pines: Designated areas offer the perfect setting for a quiet outdoor lunch, far from the buzz of the mainland.
- Visits to the Museum of the Iron Mask and Fort Royal: Dive into the local history at your leisure.
- Wine tasting from the abbey: On Saint-Honorat, visitors can buy (and occasionally taste) wines produced by the monks, available in the monastery’s shop.
- Nature photography and wildlife observation: The archipelago is a dream location for nature lovers and photographers alike, with its stunning landscapes and protected biodiversity.
Flora and fauna of the Lérins Islands
The Lérins Islands are a true ecological sanctuary, where nature thrives freely. On Sainte-Marguerite, you’ll wander through dense forests of Aleppo pines, eucalyptus, and holm oaks, punctuated by fragrant Mediterranean plants like lentisk and myrtle. These scented landscapes are home to discreet yet vibrant wildlife: ocellated lizards, grey herons, cormorants, and colorful butterflies populate the trails.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands host remarkable marine biodiversity, from posidonia meadows to sea urchins, starfish, and small fish. Educational signs along the trails help raise awareness about the fragility of this ecosystem.
Classified as a Natura 2000 protected area, the islands are managed by the French Coastal Conservatory. Every step becomes a moment of encounter with a preserved world, one to be respected and treasured.
Stories, legends, and island mysteries
The Lérins Islands are not only a natural haven, they are steeped in legends and history. Perhaps the most famous figure linked to Sainte-Marguerite is the Man in the Iron Mask, an anonymous prisoner whose face was hidden for years. Held in Fort Royal in the late 17th century, his true identity remains one of France’s greatest historical mysteries.
Going further back in time, Saint-Honorat was named after the monk Honorat, who founded a monastery on the island around the year 410. Legend has it that the island was once infested with snakes, which the saint drove away through prayer. Over the centuries, it became a spiritual stronghold of christianity in the Mediterranean, attracting monks, pilgrims, and even popes. The fortified abbey, built during the Middle Ages to resist pirate attacks, still stands as a witness to those turbulent times.
Getting there & practical information
Getting to the Lérins Islands from Cannes is quick and easy. Regular ferry services depart daily from Quai Laubeuf, near the Old Port. The crossing takes about 15 minutes to Sainte-Marguerite, and 20 minutes to Saint-Honorat. During the high season, it's best to book your tickets in advance, especially on weekends.
Once on the islands, consider bringing comfortable walking shoes, a bottle of water, a sun hat, and a swimsuit if you wish to enjoy the coves. No cars are allowed on the islands, which only adds to the sense of peaceful disconnection. Whether for a few hours or a full day, you can enjoy the islands at your own pace. For those seeking absolute tranquility, early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit.
An exceptional escape
Spending time on the Lérins Islands means offering yourself a rare escape, where nature, history, and serenity blend in perfect harmony. A must-do for travelers seeking authenticity… not to be missed during your stay at the Five Seas Cannes.