Are you ready to explore the most scenic coastal hikes in Nice and its surroundings? Then this article about the Sentier du Littoral is exactly what you need to plan your trip!
After countless visits to the French Riviera over the past decades, I’ve walked my way around the region’s fascinating cities, wandered the streets of enchanting hilltop villages, cycled the iconic waterfront promenades, and cruised from one stunning bay to another. But one of my absolute favorite ways to soak in the beauty of this Mediterranean region is by hiking along the Sentier du Littoral or coastal path.
I’ve personally completed all French Riviera hikes described in this guide multiple times, in different seasons and weather conditions, and more often than not with kids in tow. In this guide, I share my firsthand experiences and practical tips to help you explore these magnificent coastal trails yourself.
The most captivating stretches of the Sentier du Littoral are those that hug the headlands. That’s why, in this article, I focus on the coastal walks around the Cap de Nice, Cap d’Antibes, Cap Ferrat, and Cap Taillat in Saint-Tropez. These trails are relatively short, making them the perfect addition to any Côte d’Azur itinerary.
Overall, the difficulty level is easy although some trails have some small intermediate patches, just enough to keep things interesting. And the views? Phenomenal! I added plenty of photos so you can see for yourself.
So, are you ready to discover some of the most amazing coastal hikes near Nice? Then lace up your hiking shoes and let’s go!
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What is the Sentier du Littoral?
The Sentier du Littoral is France’s remarkable coastal footpath that stretches along much of the country’s coastline. On the French Riviera, this network of paths follows the Mediterranean shore. It boasts breathtaking sea views and offers access to secluded beaches that can’t be reached by car. Hiking a stretch of this coastal path is a must-do on any Côte d’Azur itinerary.
This coastal path is also known as Le Sentier des Douaniers named after its original use, as of 1791, as a customs path for surveillance purposes.
Over the following centuries, an increasing number of newly built properties appropriated the maritime domain for private use. Conflicts of use arose. Therefore, in 1976, the government established a right-of-way to guarantee free access to the coastline for all citizens. A decade later, the coastal law was made official. There’s an ongoing recovery plan to open new sections of the trail and ensure continuity of the route.
The Sentier du Littoral is only intended for pedestrian traffic. The community where the specific stretch is situated is responsible for the safety of the coastal path. During severe storms or other hazardous conditions, some portions of the path may be closed to guarantee public safety.
Coastal hikes in Nice and its surroundings
As mentioned in the intro, the stretches of the coastal path around the headlands are especially scenic. As you circle or circumnavigate the cape – in French, this is referred to as “faire le tour du cap” – you’ll discover spectacular remote beaches, coves, and areas.
The only other way to get a glimpse of these beautiful sites is from the water which involves taking one of the boat trips from Nice. There’s this one that cruises along the east coast along the Cap de Nice and Cap Ferrat, this one that explores the Cap d’Antibes with Billionaire’s Bay, and this one that sails along the Saint-Tropez peninsula.
Now, let’s explore the best walks in Nice and on the French Riviera.
Psst… At the end of this article, you’ll find a map displaying the route of all Sentier du Littoral hikes mentioned in this list.
1. Sentier du Littoral around Cap de Nice
The coastal path from Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer offers one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes in Nice. I often recommend this trail to first-time visitors who want to experience the natural beauty of the Côte d’Azur without venturing too far from the city center. It’s one of the top things to do in Nice.
Beginning at Coco Beach east of Port Lympia, the path follows the rocky coastline. Let the endless Mediterranean views and crashing waves whisk you away to a place of natural beauty.
The route briefly detours around Palais Maeterlinck via a roadside passage. Before ascending to the road, take the worthwhile side trail to Platform Beach. Last time I was here I even saw a pod of dolphins swim by!
After walking along the road for about 10 minutes, look for the “Sentier Littoral” sign to descend back to the coastal path. This second part of this Nice hike is more of a dirt trail.
The final stretch leads to the enchanting town of Villefranche-sur-Mer with its iconic pastel buildings creating a picturesque welcome. Finish at the peaceful Plage de la Darse or continue to the old town for a sumptuous meal at one of the harbor-front restaurants.
2. Sentier du Littoral around Cap d’Antibes
The Sentier du Littoral around Cap d’Antibes may just be the most spectacular and challenging coastal hike near Nice. The trail is nicknamed the “Sentier de Tire-Poil” or “Pull-Hair Path” path referring to the sweeping winds that reign here and tend to mess up the hair.
This loop trail begins at Plage de la Garoupe on the eastern side of the headland. You’ll first pass some rock creeks as you walk on a rather flat underground. Soon after, the trail becomes more rugged. Large boulders, stone staircases, and hard rocky surfaces meander the windswept coastline.
I love the contrasting backdrop of limestone cliffs, azure waters, and fragrant pines. It’s easy to see why this is considered one of the most spectacular hikes close to Nice. My photos were taken on a clouded day in spring but imagine doing this hike under a sunny sky.
At the southernmost point of the cape, you’ll pass the domain of Villa Eilenroc, one of the coast’s most magnificent estates with rose-adorned gardens that are occasionally open to visitors. Just past this landmark lies the highlight of Cap d’Antibes: Billionaires’ Bay (Baie des Milliardaires).
This is a great place to take a refreshing dip, although I strongly recommend wearing water shoes with sturdy soles. During the summer season, it is a popular anchor point for some of the world’s most luxurious yachts.
In theory, this is a circular trail and, from Billionaires’ Bay, you’re supposed to complete the loop roadside. But since the final stretch is pretty boring, I usually retrace my steps to experience the spectacular scenery of Cap d’Antibes from a different perspective.
3. Sentier du Littoral around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
This stunning hike on the Sentier du Littoral offers a flexible loop around the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula with three distinct sections that can be enjoyed separately or as one grand tour. It’s a wonderful path to explore if you’re visiting the French Riviera with children.
The eastern stretch from Hôtel Royal-Riviera to the Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat features a fully paved, stroller-friendly path. It’s also pleasantly shaded after midday, making it one of the best hikes near Nice for families. The Port area with its cafés and restaurants is an excellent place for a pit stop.
The second section, starting south of the port, circles the Saint-Hospice headland from La Paloma Beach to the Jardin de la Paix overlooking Fossettes Beach. This rocky coastal segment offers a secluded feel even though it’s located relatively close to the beaches and the port.
The longest stretch extends along the western headland, passing the exclusive Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons hotel, and the lighthouse with panoramic views over Villefranche-sur-Mer Bay and Nice’s Bay of Angels. The path continues past numerous inviting coves perfect for snorkeling before reaching Passable Beach.
From here, you can either return to the Port or visit the magnificent Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild nearby.
4. Sentier du Littoral in Saint-Tropez
This final trail may not qualify as hiking near Nice but it’s such a spectacular stretch of the Sentier du Littoral that I just have to share it. The best way to get there is by car, although dealing with the notorious Saint-Tropez traffic requires (a lot of) patience.
The coastal path from Plage de l’Escalet to Cap Taillat offers a pristine hiking experience that feels worlds apart from the glitz of Saint-Tropez town. I’ve hiked this trail countless times, and it remains one of my all-time favorites for its unspoiled beauty and relative tranquility.
The well-marked trail immediately immerses you in a Mediterranean landscape of twisted pines and aromatic shrubs. You’ll have to climb over a small boulder section early on but, once you pass it, the path alternates between dirt trails and rocky segments.
Halfway through, you’ll spot the isthmus of Cap Taillat, a narrow strip of land connecting the headland to the mainland. This protected area, part of Port-Cros National Park, is where you’re headed. It boasts the most amazing views across the Mediterranean.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the cape make it perfect for snorkeling between late spring and early fall. For those wanting to extend their adventure, continue past Cap Taillat to reach the fine sands of Briande Beach.
Map of all the listed French Riviera hikes
For your convenience, I created this map showing the route of all coastal hikes in Nice and beyond in this list.
Travel tips for your coastal hikes near Nice
Whether you’re planning to tackle all these magnificent coastal hikes or just selecting one that appeals to you the most, here are some travel tips to ensure you have the best possible experience:
FAQ about hiking in Nice and on the French Riviera
Which of these coastal hikes near Nice will you try?
The Sentier du Littoral hikes near Nice offer some of the most spectacular scenery on the French Riviera. From the wild beauty of Cap d’Antibes to the refined elegance of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, each section has its own unique character and charm.
Having hiked these paths countless times, I can promise that the views will leave you speechless and that the experience will remain one of your fondest memories of your Côte d’Azur experience.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your swimsuit, and prepare to discover the wild side of the French Riviera at your own pace, with the Mediterranean Sea as your constant companion.
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