Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Lérins Islands: Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat ! They are simply timeless, offering a veritable treasure trove of history, culture and tranquillity. Its beautiful beaches and natural coves will enchant lovers of azure expanses, while those curious about legends will not be disappointed. Indeed, who doesn’t know the captivating story of the Man in the Iron Mask imprisoned in the fort on this magnificent island? Here are just a few of the activities not to be missed on the island of Sainte-Marguerite,
The wonderful island of Sainte-Marguerite
Proud of its crystal-clear waters and royal fort, Sainte-Marguerite is a veritable nugget in the heart of the French Riviera. Imagine spending a whole day exploring its incomparable charms or, for those in a hurry, making an express stopover in just a few hours to enjoy both islands in one day.
The pleasures of swimming in its crystal-clear waters
Sainte-Marguerite, the larger of the two islands, is quickly revealed on your visit. With its crystal-clear waters and lovely coves of fine pebbles and flat rocks, it offers an exceptional bathing experience on the Côte d’Azur, beloved by holidaymakers. To the south, the beaches near Maison Forestière stand out for their authenticity and breathtaking views of L’Estérel, although they’re a bit of a victim of their own success in high summer. A little further east, the Carbonel coves offer a more exclusive slice of paradise where you can sunbathe without the crowds. Opt for the months of June and September to fully experience the attractions of this unspoilt setting.
A treasure trove of history and legend
Sainte-Marguerite, a truly unspoilt haven, is richly imbued with an extraordinary heritage. The island has witnessed some memorable historical events and remains a mystery to this day. Stop off at Fort Royal, a historic monument erected by Richelieu and later reinforced by Vauban, and discover the myth of “the man in the iron mask”. This enigmatic prisoner stayed there for 11 years. According to mythology, he may have been the uterine brother of the sovereign Louis XIV. Don’t miss a visit to his cell to immerse yourself in this captivating story.
Over the years, the Fort Royal state and military prison has been transformed into a museum of the sea. Admire the magnificent collection of underwater archaeological artifacts in this historic setting, while learning more about the local biodiversity at the Méditerranoscope. Don’t forget toimmortalize the moment from the Belvedere, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Bay of Cannes and its iconic Croisette. If you’d like to spice up your family outing with a treasure hunt, try your hand at discovering the cannonball ovens built by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1793, cleverly hidden at points to the east and west of the island.
Throughout your adventure on the island, let yourself be carried away by the change of scenery and disconnection. For over a thousand years, the history of Sainte-Marguerite has been closely linked to that of its neighbor Saint-Honorat, due to the imprint left by the monks who lived there.
The incredible Ile Saint-Honorat
Just imagine: your yacht is peacefully anchored in the “Middle Plateau”, and you have the opportunity to discover both islands at once. Such is the case with Saint-Honorat, a true jewel of the Côte d’Azur, renowned for being both an exceptional vineyard and a sanctuary of spirituality.
A breathtaking vineyard
If you pay close attention, you may hear the murmur of maritime pines and umbrella pines, while your gaze will be captivated by the splendor of the Abbey of the monks of Saint-Honorat, who, thanks to their renowned vineyard, perpetuate a monastic lifestyle dating back to medieval times. Their wines, with a production of 35,000 bottles from 8 hectares of land, are as rare as they are precious. All tasks, from pruning to harvesting, are carried out by hand, giving these wines a precious and coveted character. Only a small number of privileged people, including the occupants of the Élysée Palace, have the opportunity to enjoy this delicious beverage.
Don’t forget to visit and taste at the Abbaye de Lérins estate, so you can leave the island with a truly memorable souvenir. What’s more, you can enjoy a meal in the typical atmosphere of La Tonnelle, located in Provence, with a view of the sea and accompanied by the melody of the cicadas. Imagine yourself enjoying Mediterranean cuisine, with the sommelier’s expert advice sure to introduce you to one of the Abbey’s vintages.
An enchanting spiritual heritage
There’s only one step between oenological emotion and spiritual serenity! As you explore the island, you’ll be led to places steeped in history and mystery. It all starts with Lérins Abbey itself. Listed as a historical monument, this monk’s residence reveals its secrets. Then head for the Fortress and admire its breathtaking panorama of the Mediterranean!
Discover the heritage of Saint-Honorat by visiting its fortress and seven chapels, including the impressive Chapelle de la Trinité. Located on the east side of the island, this jewel is one of France’s most venerable Christian buildings, and in itself is well worth a walk through the pine forest. For an even greater spiritual experience, why not try an overnight stay at the Abbaye hostelry? Every year, these locations welcome people in search of serenity and renewal. And the island’s little extra? Bonaparte commissioned two furnaces for heating cannonballs, located to the east and west of Saint-Honorat respectively.
