The Esterel Massif
This vast playground for hikers, mountain bikers and electric bikers with its multitude of trails and tracks, offers infinite possibilities among the plants typical of maquis (scrubland).
Holidays for two, with family or friends?
Truly unique…
Hikers enjoy the view over the sparkling blue waters of the Sea contrasting with the red rock formations. With marked trails over 32,000 hectares, 13,000 of which are listed and protected, the highest point is Mont Vinaigre, reaching 614m (2,015 ft.) above sea level. You can picnic in the wild and finish your sporty outing with a swim in lovely inlets or on a beach along the coast.
Esterel Departmental Park
Suggested itinerary
Starting from Port de la Rague, go up the valley towards Vallon de Maure Vieil, with truly exceptional vistas over the coastline and the entire massif, especially from the Trayas and Théoule passes.
For more information
- Surface area: 700 hectares (1,730 acres) above Mandelieu-La Napoule and Théoule-sur-Mer.
- Characteristics: many of the trails are used by the fire brigade (DFCI), with various paths making them particularly easily accessible.
- You can be accompanied by a professional guide for your first treks and, if you need a map (VisioCarte, ONF maps), don’t hesitate to ask us directly at the Tourist Bureau of Mandelieu-La Napoule.
Historical background…
The Esterel Massif was separated from the African continent when the Mediterranean Sea was formed 250 million years ago. Its colour and rugged relief are the result of volcanic activity.
The inlets on the sea attest to this turbulent geological history, which resulted in dazzling landscapes: scree of scarlet rocks, belvederes on La Corniche d’Or, fragrant massifs, mysterious grottos, panoramas where the sea and sky come together.
Fauna and Flora: mastic grass, heather, rockrose, robinia, arbutus, juniper, cork oak, pubescent, Aleppo pine. Animals: deer, wild boars, lizards, beetles and butterflies share this corner of paradise.
