Massif de l'Esterel, Mountain range in Var, France
The Massif de l'Esterel is a mountain range situated along the Mediterranean coast between Cannes and Saint-Tropez in southeastern France. Its distinctive red volcanic rock formations create dramatic cliffs and coastal inlets where the terrain meets the sea.
The area has served as a passage route for trade along the Mediterranean since ancient times. Over the centuries, the rugged terrain became a refuge for those living on the margins of society.
The mountains have long served as a refuge for outlaws and those seeking escape from authority. Today, locals and visitors use the terrain primarily for outdoor recreation and enjoying the natural environment.
The region offers numerous marked hiking trails of varying difficulty that lead to summits and viewpoints. Visitors should start early and bring plenty of water, as routes can be exposed and sunny.
The red volcanic rocks date back roughly 250 million years and stand apart from other French coastal landscapes. This geological feature makes the area a valuable study site for earth scientists worldwide.
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