Royal Fort: Island Fortress and Prison Legend
Discover the Royal Fort on Île Sainte-Marguerite: Unravel the mystery of the Man in the Iron Mask, explore maritime history, and escape to a tranquil island paradise just off the coast of Cannes.
Venture just a short ferry ride from Cannes to Île Sainte-Marguerite and discover the Royal Fort, a historical landmark with a captivating past. This fortress, dating back to the 17th century, has served various purposes, most notably as a prison. Its most famous inmate was the enigmatic Man in the Iron Mask, held captive within its walls for eleven years, adding an air of mystery to the site. Today, the fort houses the Musée de la Mer, showcasing maritime history and archaeological finds. Explore the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the coastline, and delve into the intriguing stories that echo through this island fortress. Île Sainte-Marguerite itself offers a serene escape with its fragrant pine and eucalyptus forests, making it a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Royal Fort
- Cannes - Île Sainte-Marguerite, Cannes, FR
- +33489822626
- Monday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:45 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:45 pm
Local tips
- Purchase ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues and ensure a smooth journey to Île Sainte-Marguerite.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island's trails and the Royal Fort, as there is plenty of walking involved.
- Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it on one of the island's beaches or in the shade of the pine forest, as restaurant options can be limited and pricey.
- Pack swimwear and a towel to take advantage of the island's clear waters and enjoy a refreshing swim or snorkel.
- Visit the Musée de la Mer to delve deeper into the island's maritime history and learn about the archaeological finds discovered in the area.
Getting There
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Ferry
The final approach to the Royal Fort involves a short ferry journey from Cannes to Île Sainte-Marguerite. Ferries depart regularly from Quai des Îles/Quai Laubeuf at the Old Port of Cannes (Vieux Port). Several companies operate this route, including Trans Côte d'Azur and Riviera Lines. The ferry crossing takes approximately 15 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs around €18.50 for adults, €12.50 for children (5-12 years), and €16.50 for large families, youth (13-25 years), and seniors (+65 years). Children under 5 travel for free. Once on the island, follow the signs towards Fort Royal, a walk of approximately 500m uphill from the landing stage.
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