Why leave in spring?
Spring is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful seasons for sailing on the CÃ'te d'Azur. Temperatures are already mild, the days are getting longer, the sea is starting to warm up, and the still calm âeuros harbors look much more welcoming than they do in the middle of August. Indeed, it's hard to hope for a buoy in summer without planning well in advance! It's also a time when you can enjoy the blossoming landscapes, Provencal markets and quiet anchorages, while avoiding the summer crowds.
Whether you're heading off for a long weekend or a week-long cruise, here are five ideal ports of call to include in your itinerary, between Marseille and Menton .
1. Porquerolles, the gentle island of spring
It's impossible to sail off the coast of Hyères without stopping off at Porquerolles, the best-known of the Golden Isles. In spring, it's covered in wild flowers, and its paths lined with pine and eucalyptus trees invite you to go for a bike ride. Visit langoustier anchorage located at the western end of the island, is certainly the best known. Prized for its wild character, it offers excellent protection from the wind blowing from west to east via the south. The anchorage at Notre-Dame Beach is well protected from east and south winds, while the small port welcomes you to its peaceful terraces, far from the summer crowds.
Not to be missed a visit to Fort Sainte Agathe, a tasting of the island's wines, and a picnic overlooking Plage d'Argent.
2. Saint-Tropez, the myth out of season
Yes, Saint-Tropez is a must-see, and it's precisely in spring that it reveals its most beautiful side. Away from the crowds, the old port regains its authenticity, and the village's alleyways vibrate with a calmer local life. It's also an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding capes or anchor at the foot of the pampelonne beaches before the season gets into full swing.
Not to be missed a morning coffee on the port, a climb to the citadel for the view, and a stroll to the Salins beach.
Cap Taillat, wild anchorage and unspoilt landscapes
Between Ramatuelle and La Croix-Valmer, Cap Taillat, south of Saint-Tropez, is a little corner of paradise that's still relatively unspoilt. Accessible only by boat or coastal path, it offers one of the region's most magical anchorages, protected by two rocky promontories and white sandy beaches. In calm seas, it's the perfect spot for a night at anchor or a lunch overlooking the turquoise waters. It offers good protection from north-westerly, westerly and southerly winds.
Not to be missed a snorkeling session around the rocks, and a sunrise in absolute silence.
Île Sainte-Marguerite, nature and culture off Cannes
Just a stone's throw from Cannes, the island of Sainte-Marguerite is a marvel to behold. Its pine and eucalyptus forest is home to shady paths, bathing creeks and even a fort-museum, the famous Fort Royal, where the Man in the Iron Mask was locked up. Visit anchorage east of the island is well sheltered in a westerly wind, making for a peaceful night's sleep.
Not to be missed we've got it all: the Musée de la Mer, a walk to the Pointe de la Convention viewpoint, and a paddle or snorkel tour of the seabed.
Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming port of call on the outskirts of Nice
With its deep, well-protected harbor, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a very popular port of call... but in spring, it regains all its tranquility. The village with its colorful facades is superb, the waterside restaurants are still accessible, and the surrounding area, notably nearby Cap Ferrat, lends itself to beautiful walks. You can also anchor in the roadstead or enter the port for an overnight stay.
Not to be missed we'll take you on a tour of the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat coastal path, a visit to the Cocteau-decorated Chapelle Saint-Pierre, and a fresh fish dinner right on the water.
Smooth, easy navigation
Sailing on the Côte d'Azur in spring also means enjoying often mild weather conditions, with regular thermal breezes and few gales. The large yachts and tourist boats that abound in the summer months and make the water more turbulent have not yet arrived. The short distances between ports of call make for a relaxed cruise, accessible even to beginners or families with children.
Whether you're on a sailboat, catamaran or small houseboat these five ports of call offer a concentrate of the Mediterranean at your fingertips: nature, heritage, a gentle way of life... and a new-found freedom.
