This demanding 34.2 km stretch marks a spectacular transition between the Alpes-Maritimes and the Var, requiring approximately 8.5 hours of walking to overcome 701m of ascent and 710m of descent. Leaving Mandelieu-la-Napoule, you enter the Estérel Massif, where red rhyolite rocks create a striking contrast with the azure Mediterranean and the green pine forests. The St. James Way weaves through wild landscapes, passing near Mont Vinaigre, before descending toward the Argens plains through fragrant scrubland. Arriving in Roquebrune-sur-Argens, overlooked by its majestic rock, provides a well-deserved moment of spiritual reflection after total immersion in untamed nature. This section embodies the solitary and contemplative aspect of the pilgrimage, far from the coastal bustle.
The main difficulty lies in the length of the route (34.2 km) combined with a significant cumulative elevation change of over 1400m. The crossing of the Estérel offers very little shade and no water refill points throughout the vast majority of the forested section.
Pack at least 3 liters of water per person before leaving Mandelieu, as there are no reliable sources in the massif. Remember to get your credential stamped at the Roquebrune tourist office or at the Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul church upon arrival.