This masterly 86.2 km crossing, spread over three days of walking, offers a spectacular immersion between the Mediterranean balconies and the Estérel, with a cumulative elevation gain of 2521m and loss of 2662m. Departing from the perched village of Èze, the pilgrim descends towards Nice to visit the Sainte-Réparate Cathedral before crossing the Var river and passing through historic towns such as Cagnes-sur-Mer and Antibes. The path snakes between stone pines and Roman remains of the Via Aurelia, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Baie des Anges and the foothills of the Southern Alps. Approaching Théoule-sur-Mer, the red volcanic rock of the Estérel marks a fascinating geological transition, inviting contemplation and spiritual reflection facing the azure immensity. This is a major stage where the urban fervor of the Riviera gradually gives way to the wild silence of the coastal massifs.
With 2521m of positive elevation, this route is demanding, particularly during the ascent towards the hills of the Cannes hinterland under high sun exposure. Crossing dense urban areas requires increased vigilance for trail markings and careful management of physical fatigue caused by walking on asphalt. The daily stages are long and require excellent physical condition to complete the three-day journey.
Plan to stamp your credential at Nice Cathedral and the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Antibes. For a peaceful moment, aim for a dawn departure to cross the Promenade des Anglais before the tourist crowds arrive. Wear shoes with good cushioning due to the many paved sections between Nice and Cannes.