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Island · Cannes, Provença-Alpes-Costa Azul
Île Sainte-Marguerite
The largest of the Îles de Lérins, opposite Cannes, with pine forest, trails and the Fort Royal, prison of the Man in the Iron Mask.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Île Sainte-Marguerite
Île Sainte-Marguerite is the larger of the two Îles de Lérins, a few minutes by boat from the Vieux Port of Cannes. It's about 3 km long, covered in pine and eucalyptus, with waymarked trails, rocky coves and small beaches.
The highlight is the Fort Royal, a fortress rebuilt in the 17th century that served as a state prison. The most famous prisoner was the Man in the Iron Mask, whose identity was never clarified; the cell attributed to him can be visited. Protestants were also imprisoned there after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685.
Inside the fort is the Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal, with the cells, rooms about the island's history and finds from ancient shipwrecks recovered in the surrounding sea. From the ramparts you can see Cannes and the Esterel massif.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day; a full day if you want beach time and hikes.
Best time
From April to October, when there are more boats and the weather is usually settled. In summer, leave early to avoid the heat on the trails.
How to get there
Boats depart from Quai Laubeuf at the Vieux Port of Cannes, and the crossing takes about 15 minutes. Schedules vary by season; check before you go.
Tip
Bring water, snacks and sunscreen: there are few places to buy supplies on the island. Check the time of the last return boat before you set off on the trails.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Île Sainte-Marguerite
How do you get to Île Sainte-Marguerite?
By boat from the Quai Laubeuf at the Vieux Port of Cannes. The crossing takes about 15 minutes; check the schedules.
Who was the Man in the Iron Mask?
A prisoner during the reign of Louis XIV who was kept with his face covered. His identity was never confirmed, and the cell attributed to him is in Fort Royal.
Is there a beach on the island?
There are small coves and pebble and sandy beaches along the coast, without club facilities.
Can you visit both islands in the same day?
Yes, but they are operated by different companies and there is no regular crossing between the islands; plan each trip from Cannes.