Île Sainte-Marguerite

Île Sainte-Marguerite is the largest of the Lérins Islands, lying just off Cannes and reached by a short boat crossing from the Vieux Port. Covered in pine and eucalyptus woods criss-crossed by shady paths, and ringed by rocky coves and small beaches, it offers a peaceful natural escape only minutes from the busy Croisette. There are no cars on the island.

The island's main monument is the Fort Royal, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the channel towards Cannes. It is famous as the prison of the mysterious Man in the Iron Mask, who was held here in the late 17th century, and his cell can still be seen. The fort now houses a museum devoted to its history and to underwater archaeology, with finds from ancient shipwrecks discovered around the islands. Near the shore, an underwater eco-museum of sculptures by the artist Jason deCaires Taylor can be seen by snorkellers in the clear water.

Walking trails lead around the island and through the forest, past the Étang du Batéguier, a small lagoon, to viewpoints over the Esterel mountains and the neighbouring Île Saint-Honorat. A full loop of the coast takes a few hours at an easy pace. Bring water, a picnic and swimming things, as facilities on the island are limited, and check the return boat times before setting off.