La Croix des Gardes: Cannes' Green Escape
Escape the Cannes crowds at La Croix des Gardes, a natural park offering panoramic views, tranquil trails, and a glimpse into the city's rich history and Mediterranean flora.
La Croix des Gardes, a sprawling natural park just a stone's throw from the bustling Croisette in Cannes, offers a tranquil escape with panoramic views. This protected area, once the site of a 16th-century Swiss Guard garrison, now boasts 80 hectares of lush Mediterranean vegetation, including umbrella pines, mimosa, and diverse maquis shrubland. Explore over 20 km of walking trails, discover hidden viewpoints overlooking the Bay of Cannes and the Esterel mountains, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a challenging hike, or simply a moment of contemplation amidst nature, La Croix des Gardes provides a refreshing contrast to the city's glamorous facade. Don't miss the iconic cross at the summit and the Stèle du Libérator, a monument commemorating a fallen WWII bomber crew. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking breathtaking vistas.
A brief summary to La Croix des Gardes
- Cannes, FR
Local tips
- Visit during mimosa season (January-March) to witness the park ablaze with vibrant yellow blooms.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the trails can be uneven and steep in places.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the park can be exposed to the elements.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours to learn more about the park's history, flora, and fauna.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cannes city center or the train station (Gare de Cannes), the easiest way to reach La Croix des Gardes is by bus. Several bus lines, including lines 1, 2, PAD7A, and 7, serve the area. Take the bus to the 'Leader' stop, which is located near the entrance to the park. The bus journey takes approximately 15 minutes from the train station and costs €1.70 for a single ticket. From the 'Leader' bus stop, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Cannes. A taxi ride from the city center or the train station to La Croix des Gardes takes around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is estimated to be between €11 and €14. Be sure to specify 'La Croix des Gardes' as your destination, as there are several entrances to the park.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs for La Croix des Gardes. There are several parking areas near the park entrances, including Parking de la Croix des Gardes on Avenue Jean de Noailles. Parking is generally free, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. From the parking area, follow the signs to the park entrance. Note that some roads leading to the park can be narrow and winding.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, La Croix des Gardes is accessible on foot from Cannes city center. The walk takes approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on your starting point. From the Croisette, head west along Boulevard de la Croisette, then turn north onto Avenue de la Croix des Gardes. Follow the avenue uphill to reach the park entrance. Be prepared for a moderately steep climb.
Discover more about La Croix des Gardes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Suquet des Art(iste)s - Résidence d'artistes
1.8 km
Discover contemporary art in a unique setting at Suquet des Art(iste)s, nestled in Cannes' historic Le Suquet district.
Fresque sur le mur - Buster Keaton
1.8 km
Explore the Fresque sur le mur - Buster Keaton, a vibrant cultural landmark in Cannes celebrating the artistry of silent film comedy.
Cannes Riviera
1.9 km
Breathtaking views of Cannes and the French Riviera from an elevated observation point. Perfect for photos, relaxation, and soaking in the scenery.
6 Rue de la Castre
1.9 km
Experience the enchanting Rue de la Castre in Cannes, a delightful blend of history, stunning architecture, and local culture that captures the city's essence.
Mairie de Cannes
2.0 km
Explore Mairie de Cannes, a stunning city hall blending history, art, and local culture in the heart of Cannes.
Monument aux Morts de Cannes - Vieux port
2.1 km
Reflect on history and honor the fallen at the Monument aux Morts de Cannes, a poignant tribute in the heart of Vieux Port.
Statue de Lord Brougham
2.2 km
A tribute to Lord Brougham, the visionary who transformed Cannes into a glamorous destination on the French Riviera.
La Gare Maritime
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of La Gare Maritime, your gateway to the stunning French Riviera in Cannes, where luxury meets culture.
Cannes Old Town
2.4 km
Discover the historic heart of Cannes in Le Suquet: cobblestone streets, panoramic views, and a charming escape from the city's glitz.
Riviera Franceză
2.4 km
Escape to the Riviera Franceză for breathtaking coastal hikes, stunning views, and a refreshing natural experience near Cannes.
Bd de la Croisette
2.4 km
Experience the elegance of Boulevard de la Croisette, where luxury shopping meets stunning Mediterranean views in the heart of Cannes.
CANNESERIES english
2.4 km
Experience the Cannes International Series Festival: A global celebration of television's finest, held annually at the Palais des Festivals in April.
Le Chemin Des Etoiles
2.4 km
Explore the enchanting Le Chemin Des Etoiles in Cannes, a star-studded promenade celebrating cinematic legends along the stunning French Riviera.
Cannes Walk Of Fame
2.5 km
Walk in the footsteps of cinematic legends at Cannes' Chemin des Étoiles, a tribute to the stars of the silver screen.
Square Merimee9
2.5 km
Escape the bustle at Square Mérimée, a serene park on Cannes' Croisette offering lush greenery and stunning Mediterranean views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parcours de santé de la Croix des Gardes
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parcours de santé de la Croix des Gardes, a national forest perfect for outdoor activities and breathtaking views in Cannes.
Plage Du Midi Surveillée
0.9 km
Experience the charm of Plage Du Midi Surveillée, a stunning public beach in Cannes, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
Plage des Rochers de la Bocca
0.9 km
Discover Plage des Rochers de la Bocca in Cannes: a serene beach escape with red rocks, clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation away from the bustling city.
Croix des gardes
1.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Croix des Gardes in Cannes - a peaceful park offering stunning views, lush greenery, and a perfect escape from the city's hustle.
Plage du Midi
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Plage du Midi, a premier beach destination in Cannes, where luxury meets relaxation under the sun.
Les Murs Peints - Charlie Chaplin
1.5 km
Discover the cinematic charm of Cannes through its captivating street art, featuring a monumental tribute to Charlie Chaplin, a timeless icon of the silver screen.
Square Mistral
1.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Square Mistral, a tranquil garden oasis in Cannes, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst nature.
parc mero
1.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Parc Mero, a serene city park in Cannes, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls amidst nature.
Les Murs Peints - L'envers du décor
1.8 km
Explore Cannes through the lens of cinema with Les Murs Peints, a captivating collection of murals celebrating iconic films and stars, transforming the city into an open-air art gallery.
Mur Peint - Le caméraman
1.8 km
Discover Cannes' cinematic soul through vibrant murals: the 'Mur Peint - Le Caméraman' celebrates Buster Keaton & the magic of film, adding artistic flair to this iconic city.
Rue du Suquet
1.9 km
Discover the historic charm and stunning views of Rue du Suquet, a must-visit street in Cannes, France, where culture meets breathtaking scenery.
Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance
1.9 km
Explore the historic Église Notre-Dame d'Espérance in Cannes, a serene Catholic church offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Le Suquet, old quarter of Cannes
1.9 km
Explore the historic charm of Le Suquet in Cannes, where cobblestone streets meet stunning views and local culture.
Place de la Castre
1.9 km
Explore the charming Place de la Castre in Cannes, a vibrant town square filled with history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean views.
Cannes Sign
1.9 km
Discover global art and history at Musée des Explorations du Monde in Cannes, housed in a medieval castle with panoramic views of the French Riviera.
Essential places to dine
Waikiki - Restaurant Plage
1.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Waikiki - Restaurant Plage in Cannes with stunning sea views and a delightful blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine.
L'Alba - Beach Restaurant
1.7 km
Savor exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at L'Alba Beach Restaurant in Cannes with stunning seaside views.
Maëma - Restaurant Plage
1.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Maëma - Restaurant Plage in Cannes, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking seaside views.
La Brouette de Grand Mère
1.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Brouette de Grand Mère in Cannes - where every dish tells a story.
Le Jardin Secret
1.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and cocktails in a tranquil garden setting at Le Jardin Secret in Cannes.
Le Mariska
1.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Mariska in Cannes, where every dish tells a story of local flavors and culinary tradition.
Le Marais
1.8 km
Savor exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Le Marais in Cannes - a true gem for culinary enthusiasts seeking authentic experiences.
Le Cosi
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French dining at Le Cosi in Cannes - where culinary art meets elegance.
Table 22
1.9 km
Experience the finest haute French and Mediterranean cuisine at Table 22 in Cannes—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.
Le Chaperon Rouge - Restaurant Cannes
1.9 km
Experience the best of French cuisine at Le Chaperon Rouge in Cannes – where culinary tradition meets modern elegance.
Restaurant Gavroche
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with Mediterranean influences at Restaurant Gavroche in Cannes.
L’Atrium - Restaurant Cannes
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at L’Atrium in Cannes – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and ambiance.
Le Bistrot Gourmand
1.9 km
Experience exquisite Haute French and Mediterranean cuisine at Le Bistrot Gourmand in Cannes—where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Da Bouttau Auberge Provencale
1.9 km
Discover authentic Provençal cuisine at Da Bouttau Auberge Provencale, where culinary tradition meets modern elegance in Cannes.
Relais des Semailles
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Relais des Semailles in Cannes - where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Aux Bonheurs du Suquet
1.9 km
Explore Aux Bonheurs du Suquet, a charming gift shop in Cannes, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that embody the spirit of the French Riviera.
JUST IN PROVENCE
1.9 km
Explore the culinary treasures of Provence at Just In Provence, your go-to gift basket store in Cannes for gourmet delights and local flavors.
Cinq - Concept Store
1.9 km
Discover Cinq - Concept Store in Cannes, where chic fashion meets unique gifts in a stylish boutique setting.
La petite boutique by Sophie
1.9 km
Explore La Petite Boutique by Sophie in Cannes for unique artisanal gifts and local treasures that perfectly capture the spirit of the French Riviera.
OLD PARADISE Vintage Shop
2.0 km
Explore a unique vintage clothing store in Cannes, offering timeless fashion pieces that tell a story and add flair to your wardrobe.
A La Capitainerie
2.0 km
Discover unique gifts and collectibles in the heart of Cannes at A La Capitainerie, where local artistry meets vibrant shopping.
Cannes Avenue Original Store
2.1 km
Explore the elegant Cannes Avenue Original Store for a unique shopping experience filled with fashion, local flair, and unforgettable finds.
l'Ensoleillade
2.1 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite linens at L'Ensoleillade, a charming shop in the heart of Cannes, reflecting the artistic spirit of the French Riviera.
No Time - Vintage shop
2.1 km
Explore rare vintage finds and antiques at No Time - Vintage Shop in Cannes, where every item tells a story of its own.
TPGK- Boutique Cannes
2.2 km
Explore TPGK - Boutique Cannes, where fashion meets elegance in the heart of the French Riviera, offering unique styles for every occasion.
Insid Shop
2.2 km
Explore Insid Shop for the latest in men's fashion, where style meets sophistication in the heart of Cannes.
Villa Soleya
2.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Villa Soleya, a charming gift shop in the heart of Cannes, embodying the spirit of the French Riviera.
Mistigriff
2.3 km
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Cadeaux Côté Soleil Décoration
2.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Cadeaux Côté Soleil Décoration in Cannes, perfect for souvenirs and home decor.
I love Cannes
2.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chez Margaux
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Chez Margaux in Cannes, where innovative drinks and a chic atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Charlys wine bar cannes Kate &charly
1.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and exquisite wine selection at Charly's Wine Bar, a perfect blend of relaxation and nightlife in Cannes.
Charly's Club
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cannes at Charly's Club, a stylish lounge offering exquisite cocktails and live music in a chic setting.
L'endroit cannes
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cannes at L'endroit, a cocktail bar renowned for its exquisite drinks and lively atmosphere.
La Fée Verte Cannes
1.9 km
Experience the charm of La Fée Verte, a unique bar in Cannes offering exquisite tapas and delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
The Terrace Bar
2.0 km
Experience the coastal elegance of The Terrace Bar in Cannes, where fresh oysters and exquisite cocktails await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Cristal Bar
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cristal Bar in Cannes, where exquisite cocktails, aromatic coffee, and delightful tapas await you.
Bar Le Coulior
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Cannes at Bar Le Coulior, a perfect spot for drinks, laughter, and local culture in the heart of the city.
The Quay's Irish Pub
2.1 km
Discover The Quay's Irish Pub in Cannes: a perfect blend of Irish charm and Mediterranean vibes, offering delicious food and great drinks with stunning views.
Byron
2.1 km
Discover Byron, an Irish pub in Cannes offering authentic cuisine, a vibrant atmosphere, and live entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
The Dukes Pub
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Dukes Pub in Cannes, where local culture meets a lively nightlife in a cozy setting.
Au Comptoir
2.4 km
Discover the essence of French wine culture at Au Comptoir, a charming wine bar in the heart of Cannes, offering an extensive selection and cozy ambiance.
Ma Nolan's Irish Pub, Cannes
2.5 km
Enjoy a taste of Ireland in the heart of Cannes at Ma Nolan's Irish Pub, where live music and hearty dishes create an unforgettable experience.
Lounge bar by Le Roof
2.5 km
Experience the essence of the French Riviera at Lounge Bar by Le Roof, where exquisite cocktails meet stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
La Rotonde Louise Pommery
2.7 km
Discover the elegance of La Rotonde Louise Pommery, a premier bar on the Boulevard de la Croisette, offering exquisite drinks and stunning sea views.
