This demanding 34.7 km stretch marks a spectacular transition from the French Riviera to the volcanic Esterel massif, requiring approximately 9.5 hours of trekking. Leaving Cannes and Mandelieu behind, you will tackle a 699m ascent through fiery red rock landscapes and cork oak forests. The trail, offering a profound sense of spiritual solitude, crosses wild valleys before descending 711m towards the Argens plain. Arriving in the Roman city of Fréjus provides a magnificent historical conclusion with its cathedral and cloister, key medieval milestones on the Way of Saint James. It is a day of deep introspection, set against a backdrop of Mediterranean scents and vast sea views.
The main challenges are the significant distance and the total lack of refueling points once you enter the Esterel massif. The 699m of elevation gain takes place on stony tracks with high sun exposure, making the effort particularly strenuous in hot weather.
Carry at least 3 liters of water per person, as there are no reliable springs in the massif. Be sure to get your credential stamped at the Tourist Office or Fréjus Cathedral, and plan for a dawn departure to avoid the peak heat hours.