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During our recent trip to the French and Italian Rivieras, we spent three nights in beautiful Antibes, France. Antibes is a charming coastal resort town situated on the emerald waters of the Cote d’Azur. It’s a popular vacation destination filled with charming shops, idyllic street-side diners, and massive mega-yachts that preside over its busy harbor. Located just west of Antibes is the Cap d’Antibes (Cape Antibes).
The Cap d’Antibes is a peninsula situated between Cannes and Nice in the Alpes Maritimes department in the Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur region. And it’s atop many bucket lists because of one incredible hike that I want to tell you about today!
Antibes, France
While we were in Antibes, we took an Uber to Cap d’Antibes and spent part of the day walking a scenic trail called the Sentier de Tirepoil. The trail follows the eastern and southern coastline of the Cap d’Antibes.
The gorgeous path is dotted with lavish mansions, pristine beaches, and unparalleled views of the rugged coast of the French Riviera. In this family travel blog post, I want to share everything you need to know to hike this unforgettable scenic trail along the Cote d’Azur.
Hiking on Cap d’Antibes: The Sentier de Tirepoil
The Sentier de Tirepoil trail winds for 3 miles along the coast. Hiking the entire length, from its start near Plage Keller to its end at Billionaires Bay, will take about 1.5-2 hours. Budget more time if you plan to stop and swim at any of the many beautiful beaches.
During the journey, you’ll be traversing a rocky limestone path right at the edge of the sea, so the views are spectacular. On this unique hike, you’ll have breathtaking views of the rugged coast while walking next to some of the most famous properties in France.
Where To Start The Cap d’Antibes Hike
We started the trail on the eastern side of the path, near a small beach called Plage de la Garoupe. That is where we have our Uber drop us off. There are a couple of restaurtants and beach clubs in this area and public beach space.
One of the beach clubs includes a fine-dining restaurant and is called Plage Keller. We decided to eat there at the recommendation of our Airbnb host, making reservations the day before, and we weren’t disappointed! The food was amazing, and we actually got to sit at a table on the sandy beach itself.
Talk about an amazing experience – eating great cuisine while gazing out over the gorgeous blue waters of the bay.
The Cap d’Antibes trail begins on the south side of the beach. If you head to the very end of the beach, past the Plage Keller restaurant, you’ll see a sign marking the trailhead. The trail here heads east along the bay before meandering southward. The actual trail is not circular and does not loop back to the beginning.
From the end of the trail, you would need to walk along some roadways in order to get back to the Plage de la Garoupe starting location. When we hiked it, we walked the trail one way and then took an Uber from near the end of the trail back to our Airbnb (more on this later).
Getting To The Cap d’ Antibes Hike
The easiest way to get to the start of the Cap d’ Antibes hike is to take an Uber. Select the Plage Keller restaurant as your destination, and you will be dropped off very close to the trailhead. From the heart of Antibes, it’s about a 12-15 minute Uber ride.
If you are traveling by bus, the nearest bus stop to Plage Keller is Chenes Verts. It’s an eight-minute walk away. The numbers 02 and 30 bus lines stop will take you there.
Interesting Sights On The Cap d’Antibes Path
The views along the path are absolutely beautiful. We stopped frequently to admire the immensity of the sea and to watch the azure waves crash over the jagged limestone coastline.
All along the way are gorgeous coves where you can climb down to the rocks and sunbathe or just enjoy the view. On your right will be lush vegetation – olive trees, Aleppo pines, a variety of succulents, and native plant species like crithmum, silver ragwort, and sea lavandula. On your left, the craggy coastline will plunge into the swelling sea. In the distance, you can admire the far-off Esterel Mountains and the Lerins Islands.
The majestic Mediterranean, clad in dark blue and white foam, contrasts with the jagged, rocky, asymmetrical coastline, creating stunning scenes and endless photo opportunities. The area is so beautiful we met two oil painters standing before their easels, trying to capture the majesty of the landscape.
What a romantic and quintessentially French moment! Don’t you think?
Special Locations Along The Cap d’Antibes Hike
On the Cap d’Antibes hike, you will pass by three fascinating estates as well as many breathtaking bays, beaches, and swimming holes. These estates have fascinating histories, filled with wild stories of wealth, generosity, and international intrigue.
Château de la Garoupe
The first mega-mansion you will pass is Chateau Garoupe. Unfortunately, a tall stone wall and some pine trees hide it, so you won’t get a good view.
Chateau Garoupe was built in 1907 when British MP Charles McLaren hired an English architect named Ernest George to design the villa. In 1999, Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky bought Chateau de la Garoupe for €22 million. After his suicide in 2013, the villa was seized by the French authorities. In December 2023, Chateau Garoupe was sold to the Ukrainian founder of WhatsApp, Jan Koum. The sale price is believed to be €65 million.
Château de la Croë
The Château de la Croë is located about two-thirds of the way along the path. It’s a castle set within eight hectares of surrounding grounds. The Château de la Croë was built in 1927 and was leased by the Duke and Duchess of Winsor in the late 1930s. After the war, the castle was found in disrepair, and the Duchess of Windsor renovated the estate.
Winston and Clementine Churchill celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with the Windsors at the château in 1948. From 1950 to 1957, Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis owned the home before selling it to his brother-in-law.
Since 2001, the castle has been owned by Russian businessman Roman Abramovich. However, it was seized by the French government in 2022 due to sanctions resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The castle isn’t really visible from the trail, but several interesting features can be seen. On the trail, you’ll pass beside some of its stone perimeter walls. You’ll also traverse a boat ramp and an odd circular concrete pad jutting into the sea. This project was a failed attempt by Abramovich to create a yacht mooring. It was illegal, and the French government stopped construction.
Villa Eilenroc
Near the end of the Cap d’Antibes hike, you’ll pass by the grounds of the magnificent Villa Eilenroc. Villa Eilenroc has a rich history that began in the 1860s when Hugh-Hope Loudon, a wealthy Dutchman, purchased land on Cap d’Antibes to build a mansion. Completed in 1867, the villa was named Eilenroc, an anagram of his wife’s name, Cornélie.
In 1873, the property was sold to James Wyllie, who enlisted renowned designers to create an 11-hectare garden on the estate. Madame Hélène Beaumont owned the villa until her death in 1982 when she bequeathed it to the city of Antibes. The city now owns and maintains the villa and garden.
As you walk by Villa Eilenroc along the Cap d’Antibes hike, you’ll be able to see into its gardens and catch glimpses of the stately mansion over stone walls and through intricate iron gates.
Swimming Holes On The Cap d’Antibes Trail
Along the Cap d’Antibes trail, there are numerous locations where you can sunbathe on the rocks and go for a swim. Some spots are easily accessible and near the trail, while others require a bit more maneuvering. Occasionally, ladders lead down the rock face to secluded swimming spots.
Most of the trail does not have fencing or guard rails, but there are some along the more treacherous bends with drop-offs or in places where large waves could be a safety risk to walkers. So, for the most part, you are free to find a picnic spot or swimming hole wherever you like.
BUT BE AWARE: the waves are violent in some locations, and I’m sure there is a lot of undertow, making swimming in some areas dangerous. I recommend using one of the actual beaches for your Cap d’Antibes swimming.
Beaches On The Cap d’Antibes Walk
The beaches along the walk are all uniquely gorgeous, with stunning views of the Côte d’Azur, fine yellow sand, and plenty of places to lay out. Along the Sentier de Tirepoil are five beaches. Starting from the Plage de la Garoupe side of the trail (eastern start), the beaches are, in order, Plage Cap Cros, Plage Eilen Roc, Plage Argent Faux, and finally, Plage Baie Milliardaires.
The landscape is rocky, so expect the beaches to have some small-to-medium-sized rocks. If you decide to wade into the water, you may be more comfortable wearing water shoes or sandals.
Billionaires Bay In Cap d’Antibes
Your well-earned reward for completing the Cap d’Antibes hike is discovering Billionaires Bay. This picturesque bay is named for its ultra-exclusive location frequented by the billionaires who live on Cap d’Antibes. Prior to the construction of modern roads it was only accessible by billionaires on their yachts, hence its name.
The bay is a secluded cove with a beautiful rocky beach that meets cold emerald-colored waters. It’s a picturesque place that feels out of time, an inaccessible refuge of the elite hidden from prying eyes. Sunbathers enjoyed the warm summer day, and swimmers braved the sometimes painfully sharp rocks to stumble their way into the refreshing water.
While at Billionaires Bay, I snapped some amazing photos, and Abby and I went for a dip. Matt and Jake sunned themselves on a few large rocks. It was the perfect conclusion to our Cap d’Antibes day trip.
Getting Home From The Cap d’Antibes Hike
The Cap d’Antibes trail ends (or starts if you are going west to east) at Billionaires Bay. After we were done enjoying the bay, we headed up a steep road connecting Billionaires Bay with a larger road named Ave Mrs. Beaumont. We walked north along Ave Mrs. Beaumont for about 10 minutes until we came to a really nice small supermarket called VIVAL.
The walk is pleasant and takes you alongside some secluded wealthy estates shrouded by hedgerows and encircled by high fences. It gave me Hollywood Hills neighborhood vibes. VIVAL was the perfect location to request an Uber and get a short ride back to Antibes.
What To Bring To Hike Cap d’Antibes
This hike is periodically strenuous and involves being outside in the elements, so it’s important to dress appropriately and bring a few essentials for the family.
Comfortable Shoes: The trail includes rocky and uneven sections, so sturdy shoes with good grip are essential.
Backpack: You’ll want to bring snacks, water, towels, an extra layer, and a camera if you have one. It’s easy and convenient to store these items in a backpack or large bag.
Swimsuit: If you plan on enjoying one of the many swimming holes or beaches, be sure to wear your swimsuit under your hiking clothes. Have a lightweight Dock and Bay towel in your backpack.
Water and Snacks: There are no facilities along the trail, so bring enough water and some light snacks to keep you energized. During summer, we did see a couple of people selling water bottles for €2 cash.
Sun Protection: A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are crucial as the trail is mostly exposed to the sun.
Camera or Smartphone: You’ll want to capture the stunning views and memorable moments along the way.
Light Jacket or Windbreaker: If you are hiking any time but summer, you may consider wearing an extra layer. The coastal winds can be strong, especially during cooler months or in the early morning. We always travel with a travel raincoat.
Don’t Bring A Stroller: The trail is unpaved and too rough for strollers, wheelchairs, wagons, and other types of wheeled devices. It is not suitable for people with mobility issues.
Top Safety Tips While Hiking Cap d’Antibes
The trail is rocky and uneven and traverses rugged coastal terrain. Be sure to watch small children and pay attention to your surroundings.
#1 Stay on the Marked Trail
It’s important to follow the designated path to avoid damaging the fragile coastal ecosystem and for your safety.
#2 Be Cautious on Rocky Sections
Some parts of the trail can be rocky and uneven. Take your time and watch your step, especially if the rocks are wet or slippery.
#3 Bring Plenty of Water
Hydration is key, especially during hot weather. Make sure to bring enough water for the entire hike. We were parched by the end of our hike!
Making Memories At Cap d’Antibes On The Cote d’Azur
Hiking the Sentier de Tirepoil was one of our family’s most memorable experiences from our trip to France. Its stunning coastal views, rich history, and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a scenic walk, the Cap d’Antibes hiking trail offers something for everyone. I know you’ll love exploring this gorgeous path, enjoying the opulent estates, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the French coast.
Other Posts You May Like
If you enjoyed this post, you’ll love my other European travel blogs. We only post about places we have been, with our own photos an travel tips. Here are a few posts that you might find interesting!
- Should You Visit The Louvre?
- How To Plan A Trip To Europe
- The Cats In Athens
- Ancient Roman Baths
- Rentals in Amsterdam
- Tips For European Travel
Pin This Antibes Hiking Blog Post For Later
What a comprehensive post! Thanks for all the tips! It looks very beautiful there… I also like to use Get Your Guide. We used them for two excursions on our cruise trip last summer… to the Egadi Islands and in Barcelona.
This is a wonderful resource in finding interesting things to do off the beaten path!
This coastline reminds me a little bit of the Cinque Terre. I’d love this experience in Cap d’Antibes. It’s been many years since I was in Cannes and Nice.