Lérins Islands: Sainte-Marguerite or Saint-Honorat?

On Sainte-Marguerite Island, the Fort Royal, a former state prison reinforced by Vauban, invites you to discover the history of this building where famous characters such as Abdel-Kader's Smala and Marshal Bazaine were incarcerated. Visit the impressive cell of the man in the Iron Mask, whose identity remains a mystery and contributes to the legend of the fort... The Museum of the Sea, in the oldest part, provides information on Mediterranean fauna and flora. Underwater and terrestrial archaeological collections tell the history of the region there, with temporary exhibitions organized regularly. The exhibition BOTTLED SEA 2124, the plastic universe of George Nuku is visible until November 17, 2024.

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‍Green lung

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After the cultural visit, it's time for a walk in this veritable green lung. With 152 hectares of national forest, Sainte-Marguerite Island extends over 3.5 km long and one km wide. Ideal for enjoying the beach away from the crowds or for a family getaway, the island offers 22 km of marked trails and unspoiled coves. The national forest has several alleys lined with huge eucalyptus trees, among the oldest in Europe. The Ornithological Reserve of the Étang du Batéguier attracts numerous migratory and wintering waterbirds, playing an essential role in the nesting of certain protected species.

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Underwater curiosities

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Also, important archaeological remains on land and underwater bear witness to the ancient past of the island, dating back two millennia. To the east, the shipwreck of La Tradelière (end of the 1st century BC) reveals the importance of maritime trade at the beginning of the Roman Empire with a diversity of amphorae and a unique collection of ceramics and glasses. Also, the Saracen shipwreck of Batéguier (10th century) is one of the four shipwrecks of this origin found in the Mediterranean and certainly the richest.

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A more modern, but unusual curiosity, since 2021, the sculptures in the underwater eco-museum in Cannes, made by the British artist Jason deCaires Taylor, have taken place a few dozen meters from the shore of Sainte-Marguerite Island. Equip yourself with a mask and a snorkel to observe the sculpted faces of the six Cannes residents who lent their features to this artist. Welcome to the first underwater eco-museum in France and the Mediterranean! The statues, made of ecological material, promote the return of underwater fauna and flora around the works, in an area (classified Natura 2000) that is a sanctuary for swimming.

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Tranquility and spirituality in Saint-Honorat

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Also far from the hustle and bustle of the city, just in front of its neighbor Sainte-Marguerite, come and enjoy the tranquility of the monastery on Saint-Honorat Island. Since the 16th century, Cistercian monks have lived there to the rhythm of prayers and nature. Guided tours, offered by lay guides and supervised by monks, include the “Vineyard and Wine Day” and historical visits.

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Saint-Honorat extends over 1.5 km long and 400 meters wide. Apart from the coastline, it belongs to the Abbey of Lérins, located on the south coast of the island. Saint-Honorat is shaped by agriculture, in particular the cultivation of vines. You can taste and buy the wines and liquors produced by the monks. The 8.5 hectare vineyard is cultivated in an ancestral way. The work of the brothers, the clay-limestone, silty and sandy soil, the maritime influences and the sunshine give a unique typicity to this exceptional soil. Varieties grown include Syrah, Clairette, Chardonnay, Mourvèdre, Pinot Noir, and Viognier. The community has also created the “Clos de la Charité”, a 500-foot vineyard whose wine is sold at auction to support charities.

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The atmosphere of tranquility and the remarkable architecture, integrated into monastic life, give the island a unique charm. You can take the time... have lunch at the restaurant La Tonnelle where conviviality and Mediterranean cuisine are on the menu, then dive south of Saint-Honorat, where the rocky bottoms form a protected area conducive to the development of marine fauna. Deeper, a string of rocks is home to coralligens, making the Lérins Islands a Mecca for diving on the French Riviera.

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On the way to UNESCO!

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In order to preserve and enhance this exceptional site, rooted in the history of Cannes, the Mayor of Cannes David Lisnard has nominated the monastic island for UNESCO World Heritage status. This one, which focuses on the religious heritage of Saint-Honorat Island, received a favorable opinion from Roselyne Bachelot, Minister of Culture in 2021, who included the island on the national indicative list, a step prior to an official application.

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Maritime shuttles await you at Quai Lauboeuf in Cannes. All you have to do is choose your island for the day!

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Photo credits: © Jason Decaires Taylor, Maxime Tancons, Marie de Cannes - Axis Drone