Planning a trip or a road trip in the South of France?
You’re in for a treat! This is arguably one of the most stunning and diverse regions in France, blending sea, mountains, lakes, unspoiled nature, and unforgettable hikes.
From turquoise coves and limestone cliffs to the Estérel forest and hilltop villages, the French Riviera is packed with spectacular hiking trails. Here’s a curated list of tried-and-tested hikes, complete with all the info you need to explore confidently.
Here’s what you’ll find in this article:
What are the best hikes in and around Marseille?
1 – Hike from Niolon to Ensuès-la-Redonne via the Customs Trail
A wild coastal hike through scrubland and sea cliffs, with a convenient train ride back.
- Category: Coastal & Villages
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 2h45
- Elevation: +157 m
- Type: One-way
- Start Point: Niolon Train Station
- Access / Parking: Park at Niolon or return via TER train from Ensuès
- Route: Visorando
2 – Hike to Marseilleveyre via Pas de la Demi-Lune from Callelongue
A sporty loop with steep passages and panoramic views of the calanques.
More information in our dedicated article Calanque de Marseilleveyre.
- Category: Cliffs & Calanques
- Distance: 6.3 km
- Duration: 3h05
- Elevation: +458 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Callelongue (Marseille 8th)
- Access / Parking: Small parking area or bus 19 + 20
- Route: See article on Marseilleveyre
3 – Hike from Calanque de Sugiton to Sormiou via Morgiou
A full hike through Marseille’s iconic calanques.
- Category: Calanques crossing
- Distance: 14.7 km
- Duration: 6h20
- Elevation: +751 m
- Type: One-way
- Start Point: Les Baumettes (Marseille 9th)
- Access / Parking: Parking at bus 22 terminus / restricted in summer
- Route: Visorando
#4 – Hike to Calanque d’En-Vau via Port-Pin
One of the most scenic calanques, perfect for a swim.
- Category: Calanques & Swimming
- Distance: 9,29 km
- Duration: 4h
- Elevation: +443 m
- Type: Round trip
- Start Point: Gorguettes Parking, Cassis (shuttle in summer)
- Access / Parking: Shuttle or walk from Cassis
- Route: Visorando
What are the best hikes in the Var and surrounding areas?
1 – Loop around the Giens Peninsula
A loop trail through pine forests, cliffs, and turquoise coves.
- Category: Coastal Trail
- Distance: 10.1 km
- Duration: 3h55
- Elevation: +359 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Port de la Madrague, Hyères
- Access / Parking: Large parking lot at La Madrague
- Route: Visorando
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#2 – Hike to Cap Taillat from Escalet
An easy hike to a wild and preserved cape.
- Category: Coastal & Wild Nature
- Distance: 5.4 km
- Duration: 1h55
- Elevation: +119 m
- Type: Round trip
- Start Point: Escalet Parking, Ramatuelle
- Access / Parking: Paid parking or shuttle in summer
- Route: Visorando
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3 – Coastal Path in Saint-Tropez
A scenic coastal hike with views of the gulf and beautiful beaches.
- Category: Coastal & Heritage
- Distance: 12 km
- Duration: 3h45
- Elevation: +110 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Saint-Tropez town center
- Access / Parking: Harbor or beach parking
- Route: Visorando
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What are the best hikes near Nice and surroundings?
1 – Hiking to the Pic du Cap Roux (Estérel)
A scenic climb offering 360° panoramic views and red rock landscapes.
- Category: Mountain & Forest
- Distance: 5.17 km
- Duration: 2h25
- Elevation: +317 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Parking du Rocher de Saint-Barthélémy
- Access / Parking: Park at the pass
- Route: Visorando
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2 – Nietzsche Trail to Èze and Mont Bastide
A legendary trail between sea and mountain, with views over Cap Ferrat.
- Category: Hilltop Villages & Panoramas
- Distance: 6.35 km
- Duration: 3h45
- Elevation: +592 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Èze-sur-Mer Train Station
- Access / Parking: Park below or take the train
- Route: Visorando
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3 – Loop around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Peninsula
A leisurely walk around the cape with beach access and breathtaking views.
- Category: Coastal & Chic Seaside
- Distance: 8.97 km
- Duration: 3h
- Elevation: +110 m
- Type: Loop
- Start Point: Near Passable Beach
- Access / Parking: Port parking or bus line 15/100 from Nice
- Route: Visorando
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