Île Sainte-Marguerite: Fort Royal, the Man in the Iron Mask and 152 hectares of forest facing Cannes

15 minutes by sea from the Vieux-Port

Several ferry operators (Trans Côte d’Azur, Horizon, Riviera Lines) run the crossing from Vieux-Port in Cannes to Sainte-Marguerite. The journey takes 15 to 20 minutes, with regular departures throughout the day, from 7.30am at some operators.

Return fares are approximately €18 to €20 per adult, free for young children (under 4 or 5 years depending on the operator). Tickets are purchased at Quai Saint-Pierre, or online to plan ahead during peak days (July, August).

The neighbouring island of Saint-Honorat is served by its own operator (Planaria) and requires a separate ticket. To visit both islands in the same day requires two crossings and separate planning.

Fort Royal and the Man in the Iron Mask

Fort Royal is the island’s most celebrated heritage site. Built in the 17th century on Roman ruins, it was reinforced by Vauban at the end of the 17th century, after France reclaimed the Lérins in 1637. Its defensive function lasted until the 19th century, and several state prisoners were held here.

The most famous is the Man in the Iron Mask, a state prisoner imprisoned by order of Louis XIV, who spent 11 years at Sainte-Marguerite (1687-1698) before being transferred to the Bastille. His identity, the reason for his imprisonment and his face remain one of the great mysteries of French history. Several theories have been proposed (a hidden brother of the King, a disgraced minister, a foreign agent), yet none has been proven.

The fort now houses the Museum of the Man in the Iron Mask and Fort Royal, which presents:

The original prison cells, including that of the Man in the Iron Mask.

The 17th-century chapel.

Collections of underwater and terrestrial archaeology from excavations around the island.

A walk along the ramparts for views.

Swimming coves

The island offers several swimming coves around its shoreline, accessible by paths from the landing point:

The small beaches near the landing stage, the most accessible, with sand mixed with shingle.

The coves at Pointe du Dragon, to the west, more unspoilt, with turquoise water in calm conditions.

Several rocky coves less crowded along the paths circling the island.

The coves remain unspoilt; it is advisable to bring a picnic. The island has a few restaurants and kiosks open in season, including La Guérite, the finest dining option.

Walking around the island

The circuit around the island is 7 to 8km and takes approximately 2.5 hours at a leisurely pace. The route alternates between:

Forests of Aleppo pine and eucalyptus, including an avenue planted in the 19th century.

Limestone coves accessible for swimming.

Fort Royal, the cultural highlight of the visit.

The path is clearly marked and presents no difficulty. Bring water (few fountains) and a hat in summer.

When to visit

The island is open year-round, except for occasional closures due to high winds or storms.

The high season (July, August) sees crowded ferries mid-morning. To avoid the peak, take one of the earliest departures in the morning and return around 4pm.

June and September offer the best conditions: warm water, modest visitor numbers, and comfortable hiking without the summer heat.

Off-season (October to May), the island is very peaceful, ideal for exploring the heritage without tourist pressure.

Planning a stay in Cannes

AEC Collection curates and represents distinguished villas and apartments in Cannes and on the Côte d’Azur. Ferries to Sainte-Marguerite depart from the Vieux-Port, which is within walking distance of most accommodation in central Cannes.