The Esterel Massif:
A Volcanic Gem

Looking for an unforgettable holiday with your family, friends or other half? The Esterel massif in Saint-Raphaël is the ideal destination if you enjoy discovering a region rich in wildlife and plant life. The massif lies between land and sea, which makes it a paradise both for water-sports enthusiasts and for walkers exploring the Esterel. With its unique terrain, the Esterel massif is a magnet for hiking lovers.

A land particularly blessed by Mother Nature

The Esterel massif surprises visitors with its 32,000 hectares, 14,000 of which are protected. This vast area contains wild terrain perfectly suited to hiking, which explains why the trails here have been so popular for years. The Esterel massif in Saint-Raphaël offers stunning contrasts that never fail to impress visitors, and its jagged peaks give the landscape its charm. As you explore the region, you will enjoy, among other places, the Lac de l'Écureuil, the Natura 2000 site and the Fréjus side of the Esterel.

The Pic de l'Ours

At its summit, you will be at almost 500 m above sea level. A telecom mast marks the top of the Pic de l'Ours. A mountain-bike hike in the Esterel is the perfect way to discover it.

Mont Vinaigre

This peak, which dominates the region, rises to 614 m. Mont Vinaigre is the highest point of the whole massif. From the top, take in the surrounding areas and capture the moment with photos of the Esterel.

The Saint-Barthélemy calanque

Love swimming and want to try something truly exceptional? Head to the Saint-Barthélemy calanque to combine a swim, a walk in the Esterel and picturesque nature.

The Lac de l'Écureuil

The Lac de l'Écureuil can be reached by car, but the trip is even more enjoyable by mountain bike. You can follow the river while admiring the scenery.

The Esterel Natura 2000 site

This is the place to go to discover unusual animal and plant species. The site is truly out of the ordinary, with rocks of volcanic origin.

Fréjus and the Esterel

A mild climate and the Mediterranean close by: these are the charms that make Fréjus a must-see when you visit the area.

Generous nature in the Esterel massif

This chain of mountains along the Mediterranean is home to exceptional wildlife as well as wild plant life.

Esterel wildlife

Children, and grown-ups too, will make unusual discoveries here. The massif is rich in animal species. Let your children spot wild boar, stags and deer on a hike through the Esterel massif. The area is also home to many animals you rarely see. Have you ever seen a stone marten, a weasel, a wildcat or a badger? Come to Saint-Raphaël to enjoy its wildlife. Garden dormice and red squirrels await you, along with other species. Another reason to love the massif? Yes, there is one more: sweet birdsong. Around a hundred bird families bring the woodlands to life.

The massif's plant life

As for vegetation, the Esterel massif is still a truly wild place. Not a single hamlet stands in the heart of its mountains. Aleppo pines, fig trees, olive trees, chestnut trees and eucalyptus make up the massif's flora. You can also spot tropical plants such as agaves, as well as hornbeams. Hiking in the Esterel by motorbike or bicycle brings you the sweet scents of rosemary and lavender. Rockroses, heather and black locust trees complete the picture.

Esterel hikes for the whole family

Trails of every level make up the hiking routes of this 36,000-hectare massif. Choose your level, from easy to difficult, and explore the Esterel by car, motorbike, bicycle or on foot.

Climbing in the Esterel

This option lets you combine sport and discovery on an Esterel hike. Venture out into nature for a few good hours of adventure. Bring the right equipment and explore Les Suvières, Cap du Dramont or Pic d'Aurelle. And why not take on the challenge of climbing to Mont Vinaigre?

The Esterel massif by car

Some of the massif's roads are accessible by car. Packing a picnic basket and setting off for a day out by car is a great idea. You can stop somewhere shady and green, enjoy your picnic and take photos of the Esterel.

Holidays in the Esterel: where to stay?

To enjoy a wonderful stay in Saint-Raphaël, simply book a hotel. You will find excellent facilities near the marina, with Comfort or even Privilege rooms waiting for you. For a family holiday, you can choose suites and family rooms with space for everyone. Best Western Plus La Marina offers renovated rooms in a natural setting. Love good food? The region is full of fresh ingredients for delicious dishes served at the Quai Raphaël restaurant.