What to see on the Lérins Islands?
The Lérins Islands, off the coast of Cannes, consist of two main islands with contrasting atmospheres:
- Sainte-Marguerite Island : the largest, covered with eucalyptus and pine forests, famous for its Fort Royal and the “Man in the Iron Mask” prison
- Saint-Honorat Island : the smallest, owned by a community of monks for sixteen centuries, with its abbey, fortified monastery, and vineyard
The two islands are separated by a channel of turquoise water, one of the most beautiful anchorages in the bay. Neither island allows cars; visitors get around on foot, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get to the Lérins Islands
Sainte-Marguerite is about a 15-minute shuttle ride from the Old Port of Cannes. Saint-Honorat has its own ferry service, operated by the monks. To visit both islands on the same trip and enjoy the waterway, the easiest option is still a private boat.
One charter with a skipper or one Excursion departing from the French Riviera This allows you to visit both islands, anchor to go swimming, and avoid the shuttle’s fixed schedules. Please note: No cars or bicycles are allowed on the islands.
Sainte-Marguerite Island, the largest
Sainte-Marguerite boasts nearly three kilometers of protected forests, eucalyptus-lined paths, and coves. Its Fort Royal, a former royal fortress, was home to the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask in the late 17th century; today, it houses the Musée de la Mer.
To learn all about the fort, the prisoner, and the island's trails, read our dedicated guide: Sainte-Marguerite Island, the Royal Fort, and *The Man in the Iron Mask*.
Saint-Honorat Island, the Monks' Island
Saint-Honorat has belonged to its monks since the 5th century. Visitors can explore the Abbey of Lérins, one of the oldest monasteries in the Western world, and its fortified monastery overlooking the sea. The monks cultivate vineyards there and produce their own wine as well as the famous Lérina liqueur.
To explore the abbey, the fortified monastery, and the vineyard, read our dedicated guide: Saint-Honorat Island, the abbey, and the monks’ vineyard.
Swimming and anchorage spots around the islands
The Lérins Islands’ greatest asset is the channel separating the two islands, sometimes called the Plateau du Milieu. Shallow, with turquoise waters and sheltered, it offers one of the most beautiful anchorages in the region for a swim or a snorkeling session.
All around, the coves of Sainte-Marguerite and the waters off Saint-Honorat alternate between clear seabeds and Posidonia seagrass beds—a sign of pristine waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Lérins Islands?
Take the shuttle from the Old Port of Cannes (about 15 minutes to Sainte-Marguerite), or take a private boat to travel between the two islands and anchor in the channel.
How much time should I set aside?
Half a day is enough to explore one island; a full day is enough to see both and go swimming.
Are there any cars on the islands?
No. There are no cars or bicycles on either island: you can only get around on foot.
Can you go swimming at Les Lérins?
Yes, especially in the channel between the two islands and in the coves of Sainte-Marguerite, when the sea is calm.
