Paradise: the Île Saint-Marguerite in the Mediterranean

by Hilke Maunder

A paradise awaits off the coast of Cannes: the Île Sainte-Marguerite. Azure blue water, cliffs and forest. The umbrella pines have a fragrant scent. A gentle breeze blows across the Mediterranean and cools you down under the high, blue sky.

The island is just 3200 x 900 metres in size and remains a quiet paradise to this day. A retreat in idyllic nature, a little out of time and extremely charming. The Sun King turned the island fort into a state prison. The man with the iron mask was imprisoned there for 34 years. The fort is surrounded by 152 hectares of state forest with Aleppo pines, umbrella pines, holm oaks and green oaks. An avenue of eucalyptus trees was even planted in the centre of the island in the 19th century! 21 kilometres of sandy paths invite you to hike in this spicy, fragrant realm. If you follow the circular route once around the island, past the crystal-clear seabed, you will reach the Étang de Batéguier in the west. In the pond, the seawater mixes with the fresh water of an artesian well.

Hidden behind reeds and other opaque flora, it provides a safe haven for numerous species. Numerous migratory birds rest and nest here - including the protected common tern. There are also small bays and beaches along the circular route: wonderful bathing paradises with crystal-clear waters - and, to the south, a magnificent view of the small neighbour Saint-Honorat.