Lérins Islands
Opposite Cannes, just a few strokes away from the buzzing city, the archipelago of the Lérins Islands are stretched out. Saint Marguerite the largest and pious Saint Honorat has two very distinct ambiences. They used to be called Léro and Lérina during Antiquity.
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The most exposed of the islands is Saint Marguerite that has the Fort Royal as emblem. Richelieu wanted this island and Vauban reinforced it in 1712. The famous Man in the Iron Mask was incarcerated in this ancient state prison in 1687. Today it is a diving centre and The Sea Museum is found here. The rest of the island that stretches over 3 km in length by 900 m is a botanical paradise. Its 170 hectares forest is made up of various species of trees and plants. Most of the eucalyptus and Allepo pines are embellished with clematis, strawberry trees, holm oaks and kermes oaks, as well as many others.
On the western point, a pond that is also an ornithological reserve. On the coast, it is a succession of beaches to tan on and rocks to dive from. The northern facade, facing Saint Honorat gives one the impression of being in Tahiti with its turquoise waters. In summer, beware of the traffic jams, by the boats of course, and excessive speed levels of the jet skis.
Saint Honorat, that measures 1,5 km by 400 meters, is known for its monastery. During the 19th century, Saint Honoratus came to retire here. His disciples followed him here and the monastery that was created became one of most important in the region and all of Christianity! Many invasions and reigns marked the end of its influence. Nevertheless, many saints came from this congregation: Aygulf, Hilaire, Césaire, Patrick, etc. This ancient monastery dating back to 1073, at the waters edge can be visited but not the modern monastery that is closed to the public, except for the church and the Chappelle aux Morts (The Chapel of the Dead). About 30 monks still live in the walls of this Cistercian abbey. The monks cultivate lavender and vineyards. The rest of the island is reserved for walks. It is however less varied than Saint Marguerite is and its swimming areas are less comfortable. The tour of the island is done very quickly.
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