Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes
A serene viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and Cannes, especially vibrant during mimosa season.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mimosa season blooms
Belvédère de la Croix des Gardes
Best Time
Mimosa season blooms

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and Cannes, especially vibrant during mimosa season.
"Beautiful view to see the sea, Cannes airport, the sea, the Estérel. Tranquille et reposant."
👟 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Croix des Gardes hillsides
Vibrant yellow mimosa flowers blanket the hillsides in late winter/early spring. A fragrant and colorful spectacle.
Tranquil Maquis Walk
Walking trails
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Mediterranean scrubland (maquis). Ideal for relaxation and nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views & Mimosa Season
Château La Croix des Gardes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Mimosa Season
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.
Château La Croix des Gardes: A Glimpse of Grandeur
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.
Exploring the Maquis Trails
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit