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

15 minutes by sea from the Vieux-Port

Several companies (Trans Côte d’Azur, Horizon, Riviera Lines) operate the crossing from the Vieux-Port in Cannes to Sainte-Marguerite. The journey takes 15 to 20 minutes, with multiple departures daily from 9.30am to 6pm during the season.

Return fares are around €18 to €20 per adult, free for children under 8 according to the operator. Tickets are available at Quai Saint-Pierre or online to plan ahead on busy days (July, August).

The neighbouring island of Saint-Honorat has its own operator (Planaria) and requires a separate ticket. To visit both on the same day requires two crossings and careful planning.

Fort Royal and the Man in the Iron Mask

The Fort Royal is the island’s most celebrated heritage site. Built in the 17th century over Roman remains, it was reinforced by Vauban after France reclaimed the Lérins in 1637. Its defensive role lasted until the 19th century, and several state prisoners were held there.

The most famous remains the Man in the Iron Mask, a state prisoner detained by order of Louis XIV, who spent 11 years at Sainte-Marguerite (1687-1698) before his transfer to the Bastille. His identity, the reason for his imprisonment and his appearance remain one of France’s great historical mysteries. Several theories have been proposed (the King’s hidden brother, a disgraced minister, a foreign agent), none proven.

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

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

A 17th-century chapel.

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

A walk along the ramparts for panoramic views.

Swimming coves

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

Banc Beach, near the landing, the most accessible, with sand mixed with pebbles.

Dragon Beach, on the northern point, wilder in character, with turquoise water in calm conditions.

Several rocky coves less frequented along the island’s coastal paths.

No beach bars or restaurants directly on the coves: a picnic is recommended. There is one restaurant on the island (“La Guérite”), on the western point, with a more gastronomic focus.

Walking around the island

The island circuit path is approximately 6km and takes 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace. The route passes through:

Forests of Aleppo pines and eucalyptus, originally planted in the 19th century to drain marshland.

Limestone coves accessible for swimming.

The Fort Royal, the cultural highlight of the visit.

The path is waymarked and presents no difficulties. 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.

High season (July, August) can make the ferries crowded mid-morning. To avoid the peak, take the first departure (9.30am) and return around 4pm.

June and September offer ideal conditions: warm water, moderate visitor numbers, and paths that are pleasant without excessive heat.

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

Planning a stay in Cannes

AEC Collection selects and manages prestigious villas and apartments in Cannes and on the Côte d’Azur. Ferries to Sainte-Marguerite depart from the Vieux-Port, accessible on foot from most central Cannes properties.