Lérins islands – Cannes
Just a stone’s throw from La Croisette, on the opposite side of the Gulf of Cannes, are the islands of Lérins. They consist of 4 islands, of which île Saint-Marguerite and île Saint-Honorat are the largest and most interesting. The two smallest islands are uninhabited.
The islands can be reached by boat from Cannes, Golfe-Juan and Nice and the crossing takes from 20-60 min.
Île Saint-Marguerite – (900 m wide and 3200 m long)
This is the largest of the islands and here the island’s green nature welcomes you to some historical experiences.
On the island is Fort Royal, which houses, among other things, the Cannes Sea Museum and the Roman cisterns. The vaulted rooms of the cisterns testify to the ingenious hydraulic system of the Romans, intended for collecting rainwater.
You can also see the cell of “The Man with the Iron Mask”. Reportedly, the legendary figure had been imprisoned here for 11 years.
Here is also a really nice botanical path that leads you through the lush forest area with Aleppo pine and Eucalyptus trees that give the air a calming effect.
The island has only one place to stay overnight and that is at Fort Royal. In addition, there is a cozy little harbor with cafes and a few restaurants. And not to forget fantastic bathing water which can be enjoyed from one of the small beaches or from moored boats.
Île Saint-Honorat – 400 m wide and 1500 m long
The second largest of the islands, but at least as interesting.
It is as if time has stood still on this island. Only the modern boats around the island testify that we are living in the 21st century.
The main attraction on île Saint-Honorat is the monastery from the 5th century, which is still inhabited by the Cistercian monks, who since the year 410 AD. have cultivated their faith and nurtured the land around the monastery.
Today they produce red and white wine, lavender essential oil, honey and Lérina, an herbal liqueur. There live approx. 20 monks at the monastery.
Several of the island’s monuments, such as two of Napoleon’s kilns, are today classified as historical heritage.
Île Saint-Ferrol and île de la Tradeliére (approx.150 m wide and 250 m long)
These two uninhabited islands are not to be visited, but are fine areas for both diving and fishing.
How to get to Lérins Islands
You can get to these fantastic islands by boat from Nice, Cannes and Golf Juan. Read more in the article about the boast trips.
By Tommy Sverre – 2022
- All
- Art
- Boat trips
- Castles and palaces
- Churches & chapels
- Events
- Excursions
- Markets
- Monuments
- Museums
- Ports & Islands
- Squares & Promenades
Monuments Statue of Lord Brougham – Cannes’ “father”
Few have meant as much to Cannes as the English aristocrat and politician Lord Henry Brougham, whose statue adorns the basin of the avenue de la Liberté.
Events The International Film Festival in Cannes
The Cannes Film Festival is known worldwide and one of the most important film awards in the film industry. Was founded in 1939 and can celebrate its 76th birthday this year.
Art Cannes Underwater Museum
Cannes has got France’s first underwater museum, which is wildly fascinating in every way. 6 great sculptures below the sea surface connect…
Squares & Promenades Le Suquet – The old town
Here in the heart of old Cannes, the city shows its true soul. Here you find Le Suquet – the old town – a medieval area nestled on the hilltop of Mont-Chevalier. With its cobbled alleys, is one of Cannes city-must-xee places.
Boat trips Boat trips to Lérins Islands
If you want to visit the fantastic islands of Lérins, Saint-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat, you can sail there from Nice, Cannes and Golfe-Juan respectively.
Castles and palaces Fort Royal & “The Man with the Iron Mask”
At Fort Royal, the legendary Man with the Iron Mask was imprisoned for 11 years. Today, the fort houses the Cannes Sea Museum and is a city-must-xee gem.
Squares & Promenades La Croisette Promenade
The promenade at La Croisette is one of the most valued experiences in Cannes – it is the gathering point for mythical hotels, the casino, the Film Festival and…
Art La Malmaison Art Center
Great art welcomes you in historic premises that used to be part of the Grand Hotel. In 1863, when the hotel was built, this building served as a games room and tea room.
Excursions Excursions Cannes
Cannes is much more than the Croisette and the International Film Festival. With Cannes excursions you can experience Cannes from the Mediterranean
Art Bellini Chapel
This beautiful chapel completely surprises, filled with art and dedicated to one of Cannes’ beloved artists, Emmanuel Bellini.
Markets Forville Market
With its 3000 m2 and approx. 50 stalls, the market invites you inside to some of the best the Riviera has to offer in Provencal and Italian …
Museums Cannes Sea Museum
Cannes Sea Museum, Musée de la Mer, is located on the small island of Sainte-Marguerite. It is located in a unique historic setting in the old Fort Royal.
Art Musée de la Castre
Located high on top of Le Suquet, in the medieval castle originally inhabited by the monks of Lérins, the Museum of World Discovery overlooks the Croisette.
