Board the ferry at Nice’s port in the morning and cruise out onto the Mediterranean Sea toward the Lérins Islands. Your destination: Ile Sainte-Marguerite, the largest island in the archipelago, known for its lush vegetation, heavily wooded forests and the legendary fortress prison, Fort Royal.
Enjoy beautiful views across the French Riviera during your 1-hour crossing. Disembark on the island and spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure. All activities and purchases are at your own expense.
Well-marked walking trails criss-cross the entire island, taking visitors on a botanical and historical discovery. Pine and eucalyptus fragrances dominate these lovely hikes, suitable for most fitness levels.
Enter the Fort Royal, a fortress built by the Spanish in the 17th century when the islands were under their control. Legend has it that the notorious ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ prisoner was held here in the late 1600s. Today the Fort Royal is home to a maritime museum, whose wealth of archaeological finds includes 1st-century murals, contents from a 10th-century Saracen shipwreck and many pieces from the Roman era, offering insight into Ile Sainte-Marguerite’s ancient history.
Perhaps pay a visit to the Méditerranoscope, a marine study center dedicated to protecting the marine life beneath the waves around the Lérins Islands. Stroll to the Batéguier pond to see tons of migratory bird species, or head to the Point de la Convention, showcasing a range of unique plant species that have made a home on Ile Sainte-Marguerite.
There are two restaurants on the island for lunch and two sandwich kiosks for a light snack. In the early evening, re-board the ferry for the 1-hour cruise back to Nice.
Points of Interest
- Trans Côte d’Azur
- Round-trip ferry ride
- Guide
- Commentary
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
If you’re an admirer of the great outdoors, an avid hiker, or an adventurer at heart, you’ll relish a day trip to Ile Sainte-Marguerite, the biggest island among the Lérins Islands just off the shoreline of the stunning French Riviera. Convenient round-trip ferry transport is available. Depart from the port of Nice and soak in the picturesque views of the Côte d’Azur on a one-hour ferry journey, before arriving at Ile Sainte-Marguerite to begin your exploration. Immerse yourself in the variety of wildlife along a hiking path, meander through the quaint fishing village, visit the sea-based museum or explore Fort Royal, the ancient fortress prison notoriously known for confining the ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ during the 17th century.
- Drinks are available to purchase on board; no bathroom facilities on the ferry
- Be sure to check exact ferry return times before you depart from Nice in the morning as the timetable can change according to the time of year
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
