Discover the natural beauty of the French Riviera with a ferry service from Nice to the enchanting Island of Sainte Marguerite. Explore hiking trails, a fishing village, and the historic Fort Royal.
Begin your day by boarding the ferry at Nice’s port and set sail on the Mediterranean Sea towards the Lérins Islands. Your destination is Ile Sainte-Marguerite, the largest island in the group, celebrated for its rich vegetation, dense forests, and the historic fortress prison, Fort Royal.
Relish the stunning views of the French Riviera during the 1-hour journey. Upon arrival, disembark and enjoy a day of exploration at your own pace. Please note that all activities and purchases are self-funded.
The island features well-marked walking trails that traverse its entirety, offering visitors a chance to discover its botanical and historical treasures. The delightful scent of pine and eucalyptus fills the air on these hikes, which are suitable for most fitness levels.
Visit Fort Royal, a fortress constructed by the Spanish in the 17th century when they controlled the islands. It is said that the infamous ‘Man in the Iron Mask’ was imprisoned here in the late 1600s. Today, Fort Royal houses a maritime museum, showcasing a wealth of archaeological artifacts, including 1st-century murals, items from a 10th-century Saracen shipwreck, and numerous Roman-era pieces, providing a glimpse into Ile Sainte-Marguerite’s ancient past.
Consider visiting the Méditerranoscope, a marine research center focused on conserving the marine life around the Lérins Islands. Take a walk to the Batéguier pond to observe a variety of migratory bird species, or head to the Point de la Convention, which features a diverse array of unique plant species that thrive on Ile Sainte-Marguerite.
For lunch, there are two restaurants available on the island, as well as two sandwich kiosks for a lighter meal. In the early evening, board the ferry once more for the 1-hour return trip to Nice.
Points of Interest
- Trans Cote 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.
