Cap d’Antibes conjures up images of a deep blue Mediterranean lapping up against exclusive millionaire villas. But hike the trail around the peninsula and you might be surprised by how wild the landscape is. Yes, there are huge villas but they’re concealed among the pine trees. And, walking through wild maquis and olive trees and alongside limestone cliffs and rocky coves takes you far from the hustle and bustle of the Riviera beach resorts just a few kilometres away.
HIKING TRAIL NOTES | TRAIL MAP | ROUTE DESCRIPTION | ACCOMMODATION
Exploring the stunning coastal beauty of the Cap d’Antibes peninsula
Cap d’Antibes Walking Trail Notes
- Departure point: Plage de la Garoupe, Cap d’Antibes
- Climb: 30 m
- Descent: 30 m
- Distance: 4.8 km
- Duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best time of year: Year round
Cap d’Antibes Hiking Trail Map
Hiking Trail Overview
The coastal path is quite narrow and uneven and with the mistral wind, it can make this trek more challenging. You follow the coast for most of the trek but will come to the beautiful gardens of the Villa Eilen Roc towards the end of the coastal path before heading back to Garoupe beach through lovely small roads across the middle of Cap d’Antibes.
Route Description
View over the Med and the Maritime Alps from Cap d’Antibes | © Instagram – antibesjuan
Park at Garoupe, just after the beach, and take the wide path along the coast away from Antibes. You’ll come to a cove surrounded by strips of land on either side and will get an amazing view of the east of the Côte d’Azur from here.
The wide path will soon change to a paved path and will follow the coast round Cap Gros. You’ll then hike past the walls of the estates of the castles of Garoupe and Croé. Be careful along the path as it sometimes comes very close to the edge of the cliff.
You’ll then reach the Villa Eilenroc which is owned by the city of Antibes. The gardens are definitely worth a visit – they are open mid week, except in July and August.
Then follow the coastguard path (Chemin des Douaniers) back inland and then follow Avenue Beaumont until you reach the main road RD 2559.
Take a right immediately onto Avenue de la Tour Gandolphe which will take you back to your starting point at Garoupe beach.
Getting There
This hike starts and ends at Plage de la Garoupe, located on Chemin de la Garoupe, just off Boulevard de la Garoupe on Cap d’Antibes.
If you’re staying in Antibes, it’s a short drive, cycle, or even a jog to the trailhead. There’s limited parking near the beach, so arriving early is recommended in peak season.
Coming from Nice (approx. 40 minutes by car), take the coastal M6098 or A8 motorway to Antibes, then follow signs to Cap d’Antibes and Plage de la Garoupe. Alternatively, you can take a train to Antibes station and then hop on a local bus or hire a bike or e-bike for a scenic ride to the cape.
From Cannes (approx. 30 minutes by car), follow the D6007 or A8 toward Antibes, then continue to Cap d’Antibes. For a car-free option, take the train to Juan-les-Pins and enjoy a coastal walk or bike ride around the headland.
Cyclists and runners can follow the flatter coastal roads from Antibes or Juan-les-Pins. Bike rental shops are widely available in town, including e-bikes, which make getting to the trailhead easier in the summer heat.
Cap d’Antibes Accommodation
Antibes offers a range of places to stay for varying budgets, but for outdoor enthusiasts, location is key. Whether you’re planning to hike the scenic trails around Cap d’Antibes or hit the water for paddleboarding or other sports, staying close to the action really makes the difference. Here’s our recommendation of the best mid-range accommodation options for active travellers—each one well positioned for easy access to trails, beaches, and local water-sports centres.
Here are some of our favourite places to stay near Cap d’Antibes:
Antibes
Hôtel Le Petit Castel
Antibes
La Villa Port d’Antibes & Spa
Cap d’Antibes
Hôtel Josse
In conclusion, the Cap d’Antibes hiking trail beckons active holidaymakers to embark on an exhilarating adventure amidst the captivating landscapes of the French Riviera. Contrary to its exclusive reputation, it unveils a treasure trove of unspoiled natural beauty, inviting hikers to explore its rugged terrain. As you venture along this coastal path, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of pine trees, olive groves, limestone cliffs, and rocky coves, all set against the backdrop of the azure Mediterranean sea.
This 4.8 kilometre circular hike, with minimal elevation changes and a moderate two-hour duration, is accessible to hikers of all levels. Whether you embark on this adventure in the heat of summer or the tranquillity of winter, the Cap d’Antibes trail promises a memorable experience year-round.
While the narrow and uneven terrain may pose a challenge, it’s a small price to pay for the panoramic views and the sense of isolation from the bustling Riviera resorts just a stone’s throw away. Along the way, you’ll encounter the Villa Eilenroc, nestled within beautiful gardens, offering a perfect opportunity to pause and soak in the surroundings.
As you retrace your steps along the coast path and traverse the charming streets of Cap d’Antibes, the journey comes full circle, leading you back to picturesque Garoupe beach. This hike epitomises the region’s ability to balance grandiosity with natural beauty.
So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking a quick escape or a novice looking to explore the natural wonders of the French coastline, the Cap d’Antibes hiking trail is an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories of the mesmerizing landscapes and the hidden treasures of the Côte d’Azur.
FAQs About the Cap d’Antibes Hiking Trail
Yes, the Cap d’Antibes hiking trail is considered easy and is suitable for hikers of all levels, including beginners.
You can enjoy this hike year-round, but many hikers prefer the milder weather of spring and autumn to avoid the summer heat.
The trail is approximately 4.8 kilometers long and typically takes around 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace.
While the trail is generally safe, it’s advisable to stay on marked paths, be cautious near cliff edges, and carry essentials like water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.
The gardens of Villa Eilenroc are typically open to the public, but the house is temporarily closed for renovation. It’s a good idea to check their opening hours, as they may vary, especially in July and August.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, but it’s essential to check local regulations when it comes to certain beaches and keep them on a leash, especially near cliff edges and sensitive natural areas.
Yes, there is parking available near Garoupe beach, which serves as a convenient starting point for the trail. Search for Parking Plage de la Garoupe.
Yes, after your hike, you can explore Antibes, visit the historic old town, or relax on the beautiful Garoupe beach. Another beautiful spot nearby is Plage Point Ouest, a rocky cove with a scrape of sand and some fantastic swimming in clear blue water. There’s also some coastal rock climbing to be had. You’ll find a few routes near the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, marked on Google Maps as Psicobloc.
Guided tours are sometimes available, especially during the tourist season. You can check with local tour operators for more information. But, the trail is well marked and easy to follow, so you don’t need a guide to enjoy it.
Yes, bringing a picnic is a great idea. There are many scenic spots along the trail where you can stop and enjoy a sandwich while taking in the stunning views. Or, if you end the hike at Plage de la Garoupe, there are a few nice restaurants to choose from, including Le Rocher and Le César. Or, if you fancy ditching the picnic and pushing the boat out, Eden-Roc Restaurant serves upscale lunchtime seafood with a stunning sea view.
Please leave a comment below if you need specific advice for your hiking trip to the Cap d’Antibes, or if you have any recommendations to help us improve this guide. Bonnes vacances!
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