Gorges de Blavet & Lac de l'Écureuil
Just 20 kilometres north of Fréjus, the Gorges de Blavet carve through the Estérel hinterland in near-total obscurity — a dramatic canyon of rust-red porphyry rock, cork-oak forest and clear green pools that feels a world away from the coastal crowds. The Lac de l'Écureuil at the canyon head is perfect for a post-hike swim.
Hiking the Canyon Trail
The main trail follows the Blavet stream for roughly 6 kilometres round-trip, crossing the water on stepping stones and passing through a landscape that shifts from open garrigue to dense riparian forest. The path is well-marked with yellow blazes and the elevation gain is modest, making it suitable for families with older children.
Look for the ruined medieval chapel of Saint Honorat perched on a ledge above the gorge — it appears suddenly around a bend in the trail and the contrast of ancient stonework against the red rock walls is genuinely cinematic. Wild orchids bloom along the path margins in April and May.
Swimming at Lac de l'Écureuil
The small reservoir at the top of the gorge is ringed by cork oaks that drop into clear, cool water — locals bring picnic blankets and spend entire Sunday afternoons here through the summer. The water temperature peaks in August but even in June it is refreshingly cold after the dusty walk up.
There are no facilities, no lifeguard and no entrance fee — bring everything you need including drinking water, sunscreen and a bag for your rubbish. The car park at the trailhead on the D837 fills by 10:00 on summer weekends, so arrive early or cycle from Fréjus on the Piste Cyclable de l'Estérel.
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