Lérins Islands
Îles de Lérins
Two small islands off Cannes. On Sainte-Marguerite, the Man in the Iron Mask was once imprisoned, while Saint-Honorat has a thousand-year-old monastery where monks make wine and liqueur.
The Lérins Islands lie about a 15-minute boat ride offshore from Cannes and consist mainly of two islands. The larger Île Sainte-Marguerite has a royal fortress where the legendary 'Man in the Iron Mask' is said to have been imprisoned. The fortress houses a maritime museum, and the island is covered with pine-shaded walking trails and clear coves, ideal for swimming and picnics. The smaller Île Saint-Honorat is home to the Lérins Abbey, founded in the 5th century, where Cistercian monks still live, growing grapes and producing wine and liqueurs. The island is peaceful and serene. Boats depart from the Old Port of Cannes, costing about €16 to 19 return. There is no direct link between the two islands, so most visitors choose one and spend half a day there.
Opening hours
Boats about 7:30 am–6:00 pm (varies by season)
Nearby sights
- Cannes / Palais des Festivals
- Cap d'Antibes
- Antibes Old Town
- Musée Picasso Antibes
- Fondation Maeght
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence
- Grasse
- Gourdon