Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes - black and white airplane on the sky
1 / 10

Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes

5
·2 reviews·Cannes, France

A serene viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and Cannes, especially vibrant during mimosa season.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late winter to early spring

Mimosa season blooms

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes - black and white airplane on the sky

Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes

Best Time

Late winter to early spring

Mimosa season blooms

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and Cannes, especially vibrant during mimosa season.

5
(2 reviews)

"Beautiful view to see the sea, Cannes airport, the sea, the Estérel. Tranquille et reposant."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring the maquis and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning panoramic shots of the sea and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes

Breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, Cannes, and the Estérel mountains. Perfect for photos!

Mimosa Blooms

Mimosa Blooms

Croix des Gardes hillsides

Vibrant yellow mimosa flowers blanket the hillsides in late winter/early spring. A fragrant and colorful spectacle.

Tranquil Maquis Walk

Tranquil Maquis Walk

Walking trails

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Mediterranean scrubland (maquis). Ideal for relaxation and nature lovers.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Best Views & Mimosa Season

Visit during mimosa season (late winter/early spring) for stunning floral displays and panoramic sea views. It's a tranquil escape from the city bustle.

Château La Croix des Gardes

While the Belvedere offers views, the private Château La Croix des Gardes is a notable landmark. Access to its grounds is limited as it's a private estate.

Best Times

When
Late winter to early spring
Why
Mimosa season blooms
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter, best light for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bienvenue au château de la croix des gardes à Cannes - propriété disponible à la location saisonnière 🤓 #été #piscine #chateaudelacroixdesgardes
@charlywors
69K likes • 405.1K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring the maquis and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning panoramic shots of the sea and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Le Palais Vénitien, situé sur les hauteurs de Cannes dans le quartier de la Croix des Gardes, est une somptueuse résidence inspirée de l'architecture byzantine et vénitienne. Cette propriété exceptionnelle s'étend sur 2,5 hectares et offre une vue panoramique sur la Méditerranée. Commandée initialement par Adil Khashoggi dans les années 1980, la construction du palais a été achevée par son fils, E...
@tourrduglobe
8.9K likes • 210K views
💛 C'est l'heure du mimosa à Cannes ! La Croix des Gardes en fleurs, c'est un peu notre balade coup de cœur du moment ! Ça sent bon, c'est beau, et ce n'est que le début, alors profitez-en ! // It’s mimosa time in Cannes! The blooming Croix des Gardes is our favorite walk of the moment! It smells good, it's beautiful, and it's only the beginning, so enjoy it! #Cannes #CannesFrance #CotedAzurFra...
cannesfrance
768 likes • 20.3K views

🌸 Smell the Mimosa

If visiting in season, the scent of mimosa is incredible. A truly sensory experience. :hibiscus:

🚗 Parking Considerations

Parking can be limited, especially during peak mimosa season. Arrive early if driving. :car:

☀️ Jaune mimosa, la couleur de l’hiver à #Cannes ! Direction la Croix des Gardes pour une balade fleurie 💛 #CannesFrance #CotedAzurFrance
@cannesfrance
3.7K likes • 8.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Trails can be uneven. Good walking shoes are a must for exploring the maquis and enjoying the views. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning panoramic shots of the sea and coastline. :camerawithflash:

🌸 Smell the Mimosa

If visiting in season, the scent of mimosa is incredible. A truly sensory experience. :hibiscus:

🚗 Parking Considerations

Parking can be limited, especially during peak mimosa season. Arrive early if driving. :car:

What Travellers Say

5
(2 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape. The natural beauty, especially during mimosa season, is a significant highlight. Some note that parking can be limited, and the private château is not accessible.

"Belvedere of the maquis on the cross of the guards, beautiful view to see the sea, Cannes airport, the sea, the Estérel 😉👌"

Keyser Söze

"Tranquille et reposant"

fabrizio d'avolio

What People Like

Beautiful sea views
Tranquil and relaxing
Mimosa season blooms

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Private château inaccessible

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Belvedere is accessible by car, with parking available nearby, though it can fill up quickly. You can also hike up from Cannes city center, which offers a more immersive experience into the maquis. :car: :hiking_boot:

While direct bus routes to the very top might be limited, you can take buses towards the Croix des Gardes area and then walk the rest of the way. Check local Cannes bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

Yes, it's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy nature. The trails wind through the maquis and offer glimpses of the sea as you ascend. Allow ample time for the hike. :walking:

Driving directly to the Belvedere offers the most convenience. For a more active visit, consider parking lower down and walking up through the scenic trails. :oncoming_automobile:

The main access is via roads leading to the summit area. Look for signs directing you to the viewpoint or 'Belvédère'. :road:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Belvédère and the surrounding natural park is free. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy. :ticket:

The Belvedere is an outdoor viewpoint and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views. :sunriseovermountains:

There is no entrance fee for the park or the Belvedere. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area without any cost. :moneywithwings:

The Château de la Croix des Gardes is a private property and not open to the public for visits. You can see it from a distance, but access to the grounds is restricted. :lock:

As a natural area, visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. Avoid littering and stay on marked trails where applicable. :recycle:

📸 📸 Photography

The main viewpoint offers the most iconic panoramic shots. Look for spots along the walking trails for unique perspectives of the coastline and the Château. :camerawithflash:

Yes, sunset from the Belvedere can be spectacular, casting a warm glow over the sea and the city of Cannes. :city_sunset:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant landmarks. :camera:

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near private properties or for safety reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. :drone:

Absolutely! The vibrant yellow mimosa flowers create a beautiful contrast with the blue sea, making for stunning floral photography. :flower_yellow:

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

The main activities are enjoying the panoramic views, taking leisurely walks through the maquis, and appreciating the natural beauty, especially during mimosa season. :hikingboot: :camerawith_flash:

Yes, it's a lovely spot for a picnic with a view. Find a quiet spot along the trails or at designated areas. Remember to take all your trash with you. :picnic_table:

You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on whether you're just taking in the view or enjoying a longer walk. :clock1:

There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the Belvedere. It's a natural area, so come prepared. :toilet:

The area is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. :shield:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes offers a refreshing outdoor experience for families. The walking trails are generally manageable for children, providing opportunities for them to explore nature and burn off energy. Pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities on-site. The panoramic views can also be a fun way to point out landmarks and engage kids' imaginations. Visiting during mimosa season adds an extra layer of wonder with the vibrant yellow flowers. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers

For those who love to walk, the Croix des Gardes is a gem. You can embark on a leisurely stroll through the maquis or opt for a more invigorating hike up to the Belvedere. The trails offer varied terrain and beautiful scenery, making it a rewarding experience for any walker. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

📸 Photographers

This location is a dream for photographers. The panoramic sea views are spectacular, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTok If you visit during mimosa season, the vibrant yellow blooms provide incredible foreground or framing opportunities against the blue backdrop. Instagram The Château de la Croix des Gardes also offers a unique architectural element to capture from a distance. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Mimosa Season

The Croix des Gardes is particularly famous for its abundant mimosa trees, which burst into vibrant yellow blooms typically from late January to early March. This natural spectacle transforms the hillsides into a fragrant, golden landscape, drawing visitors seeking a sensory delight. The air becomes perfumed with the sweet scent of mimosa, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It's a prime time for photographers and nature lovers to experience the French Riviera in a unique, less crowded way than during the summer months. TikTokInstagram

During this period, the Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes becomes an even more enchanting destination. The contrast of the bright yellow flowers against the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Estérel mountains is simply breathtaking. Many visitors enjoy leisurely walks along the trails, taking in the sights and smells, and often stopping for picnics amidst the blooming flora. It's a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the milder winter climate of the Côte d'Azur. TikTokInstagram

Château La Croix des Gardes: A Glimpse of Grandeur

While the Belvédère offers natural beauty and panoramic views, the Château La Croix des Gardes is a prominent landmark that often sparks curiosity. This magnificent estate, inspired by Byzantine and Venetian architecture, sits on 2.5 hectares and boasts stunning Mediterranean views. TikTok It was famously commissioned by Adnan Khashoggi in the 1980s and has since been a private residence, occasionally used for exclusive events, including fashion shows like Versace's La Vacanza. TikTok

It's important to note that the Château is a private property and is not open to the public for tours or visits. While you can admire its grandeur from a distance as you explore the Belvédère and its surroundings, direct access to the château grounds is restricted. Its presence adds a touch of opulence to the natural landscape, making the area a blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor. TikTok+1

Exploring the Maquis Trails

The area surrounding the Belvédère is characterized by the Mediterranean maquis, a dense shrubland ecosystem. The walking trails here offer a peaceful escape, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna. These paths are generally well-maintained, though some can be uneven, making comfortable footwear essential. Reddit

These trails are perfect for a tranquil stroll, offering a respite from the bustling coastal towns. As you wander, you'll encounter various aromatic herbs and resilient Mediterranean plants. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become, rewarding your effort with stunning vistas of the sea, the Bay of Cannes, and the distant islands. It's an ideal setting for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or simply quiet contemplation. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2