The Estérel massif and the Corniche d'Or: the road of red rocks
Between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes, the Estérel massif casts its red porphyry rocks into a turquoise sea. The Corniche d'Or, a coast road cut into the cliffside, is among the most spectacular on the Côte d'Azur. Here is how to enjoy it, at the wheel of a convertible or comfortably settled in the back.
The Corniche d'Or
Built in the early 20th century, the Corniche d'Or winds between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer, hugging the coves and headlands. The contrast between the red of the porphyry, the green of the pines and the blue of the sea is striking at every bend.
The viewpoints follow one after another: ideal for a leisurely drive, camera within reach.
The red rocks and the coves
The massif owes its unique colour to rhyolite, a red volcanic rock. Secluded coves, pebble creeks and small harbours such as Agay or Le Trayas invite you to swim and stop. Offshore, the Île d'Or and its tower intrigue the curious.
Hikes and panoramas
For walkers, the Pic du Cap Roux and Mont Vinaigre, the highest point of the massif, offer 360° panoramas over the coast and the hinterland. The Estérel trails, managed as a state forest, are best walked outside the hot hours in summer.
Villages and stops
Saint-Raphaël and its neighbour Fréjus, rich in a Roman past, anchor the massif to the west; Théoule-sur-Mer and Mandelieu-la-Napoule link it to Cannes in the east. So many stops for combining sea, heritage and fine dining.
Exploring the Estérel
The Corniche d'Or lends itself magnificently to a convertible outing; but its bends are also best savoured without driving, so as to miss nothing of the scenery. A chauffeur tailors the stops to the viewpoints and coves. Our local team, rated 5.0/5 from 38 Google reviews, builds the route around your wishes.