Sailing the French Riviera in autumn

22 November 2024

Sailing the French Riviera in autumn: serenity and freedom

In autumn, sailing on the French Riviera is synonymous with freedom and serenity.

Unlike the summer months, when beaches, restaurants and alleyways are packed with tourists, autumn brings a gentle, almost magical tranquillity to the Mediterranean coastline.

The boats float calmly in the ports of Saint-Tropez, Cannes and Antibes, as if the sea itself were savouring the moment.

Take to the water this golden season. Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy the pleasures of sailing without the crowds of summer. The marinas are less crowded, the prices more attractive and the scenery more intimate.

Sailing on the French Riviera in autumn means enjoying calmer seas, sublime landscapes and an atmosphere of absolute relaxation, far from the hustle and bustle of summer.

What are the advantages of sailing on the French Riviera in autumn?

Take advantage of pricing opportunities

Now that the summer high season is over, the number of tourists has dropped considerably.

Tourism professionals adjust their prices accordingly to attract new customers.

Prices for moorings, sailing services and even seaside restaurants and hotels are often reduced in the autumn.

So it’s a good time to sail on a budget.

Take advantage of favourable weather and wind

Autumn brings milder temperatures, perfect for those who love the sun without the stifling heat. Reliable breezes are the perfect time to hoist a sail and glide across calm waters.

The perfect time to go fishing.

Autumn is a privileged season for anglers on the French Riviera, offering the perfect conditions to explore different techniques and catch a variety of species in a peaceful and beautiful setting.

Temperatures remain mild and the sea is often calm, making it easier to navigate and access interesting spots.

In autumn, the fish are preparing for winter and are more likely to bite. Species such as bream, pike perch and predators are particularly active.

Conditions are ideal for a variety of fishing techniques, including trolling, casting and even jigging for the thrill-seeker.

Enjoy popular destinations without the crowds

Who hasn’t dreamt of strolling along the Croisette without the hordes of tourists, swimming in the Calanques of Estérel without having to fight your way through the bathers, or visiting the museums of Cannes without queuing?

Autumn offers a unique opportunity to discover the French riviera’s most emblematic sites in a quieter atmosphere.

You can explore iconic destinations in peace and quiet, enjoying the culture, history and beauty. As the high season draws to a close, the marinas and beaches empty out and offer a peaceful setting.

Anchorages are less crowded and ports are more accessible, allowing for a more intimate experience.

the Lérins Islands (Cannes)

The islands of Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat are perfect for an autumn break.

The archipelago is made up of two large islands: Sainte-Marguerite, the largest to the north, famous for its fortress which is said to have sheltered the Man in the Iron Mask, and the smaller Saint-Honorat to the south, known for its monastery.

Each of these main islands is accompanied by an uninhabited islet, La Tradelière and Saint-Ferréol.

Land on the tranquil beaches or explore the monasteries and wooded paths with breathtaking views over the Bay of Cannes.

Discover the Lérins Islands:

https://www.cannes.com/fr/cadre-de-vie/plages-mer-nautisme/iles-de-lerins.html

The Calanques de l’Estérel

Between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer, these red rocky coves offer spectacular contrasts with the blue of the Mediterranean.

Looking for an unusual getaway? Head to the Calanques de l’Estérel and discover Île d’Or, a place steeped in history. Here you can admire the remains of the Allied landings and the famous tower which is said to have inspired Hergé.

The Île d’Or also tells the unusual story of Dr Lutaud, a colourful character who proclaimed himself ruler of the island. A must for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

In autumn, the Calanques are even quieter, with fewer people to enjoy the scenery.

Discover the Calanques de l’Esterel:

https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/decouvrir/plages/criques-calanques/

The Cap Ferrat Nature Reserve

Perfect for lovers of marine life, this site is rich in underwater landscapes.

Between the cliffs of Saint-Jean and the plateau of Cap d’Ail, the abysses open up and plunge to a depth of 1,263 metres. Bottlenose dolphins, graceful dancers of the sea, cross the sheer cliffs, while posidonia meadows, veritable underwater meadows, undulate with the currents.

Out at sea, the giants of the oceans, the rorquals and sperm whales, rule these unfathomable depths.

In autumn, the vegetation turns golden and contrasts with the sea, offering ideal sailing and diving conditions.

Discover the Cap Ferrat nature reserve:

https://www.nicecotedazur.org/metropole/territoire/natura-2000/cap-ferrat/

Cap Taillat

Between Ramatuelle and Saint-Tropez, this wild cape is surrounded by turquoise waters ideal for diving and snorkelling.

Looking for a nature break? Head for Cap Taillat! This jewel of the Côte d’Azur will enchant you with its breathtaking scenery: winding coastal paths, fine sandy beaches, secret coves…

And that’s not all! Discover the history of the town and its rich heritage at the Maison des Douanes.

In autumn, you can enjoy this place in absolute tranquillity, far from the hustle and bustle of summer.

Discover Cap Taillat:

https://www.conservatoire-du-littoral.fr/siteLittoral/193/28-le-cap-taillat-83_var.htm

Villefranche-sur-Mer

This charming village is one of the finest anchorages in the region, with picturesque views over the surrounding hills and a pleasant harbour.

The small port of Villefranche-sur-Mer, with its mix of traditional fishing boats and pleasure craft, is a living tableau that changes with the hours.

The town, with its crescent-shaped bay, 16th-century citadel and pastel-coloured houses, has attracted many painters and artists, seduced by its picturesque charm and unique setting.

In autumn, the mild climate makes a visit even more pleasant.

Discover Villefranche sur mer:

che sur mer:https://www.explorenicecotedazur.com/villefranche-sur-mer/comment-venir/

The Calanques of Cassis :

The Calanques de Cassis are a true natural jewel, a treasure trove of wild beauty where the turquoise sea meets the limestone cliffs. Located between Marseille and Cassis, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and exceptional biodiversity.

Created by the erosion of the land, the Calanque, a word of Provençal origin, is a marine valley shaped by time. Protected since 2012 as part of Europe’s first peri-urban national park, this natural jewel is home to a rich and diverse marine fauna.

Certain areas, veritable natural nurseries, have been protected from all fishing activity to encourage the renewal of species.

Discover the Calanques de Cassis:

https://www.calanques-parcnational.fr/fr/venir-aux-calanques-de-cassis

Combining natural beauty with autumnal tranquillity, these locations offer a unique sailing experience to explore the French Riviera off-season in an even more authentic and tranquil setting.

If you want to sail whatever the weather, whatever the season, we have the right boat for you: