Sentier du Littoral (Coastal Path)
Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat's Sentier du Littoral is an 11-kilometre marked footpath that circumnavigates almost the entire peninsula at sea level, weaving between limestone cliffs, secret coves and wind-sculpted Mediterranean scrub. Unlike the manicured promenades of Nice or Cannes, this path feels genuinely wild — you are as likely to share it with a cormorant as with another tourist.
Planning Your Circuit
The full loop starts and ends in Saint-Jean village and can be walked in either direction; most people go clockwise to keep the sea on their right and the sun at their back in the morning. Allow three to four hours for the complete circuit, including stops for swimming.
Several unofficial entry points — including one near Plage de Passable on the western shore — let you join the path for a shorter out-and-back if a full loop feels ambitious.
Wear proper shoes: the path crosses smooth, wave-polished rock in several sections that become genuinely slippery when wet.
Wildlife and Swimming Spots
The eastern stretch between Pointe de Saint-Hospice and Plage Paloma passes through a protected marine zone where the water turns an almost implausible shade of turquoise. Bring a mask — the underwater life here rivals anything you'll see on a paid snorkel tour.
In spring, the clifftop scrub erupts with cistus, wild lavender and sea fennel, and you'll hear warblers and bee-eaters well before you see them. Early June is arguably the single best week to walk it.
More of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat →
