Croix des gardes, Nature reserve in Cannes, France.
Croix des Gardes is a nature reserve covering about 80 hectares in Cannes, shaped by Mediterranean plants such as umbrella pines and different mimosa species. Walking paths cross the grounds and offer routes for various ability levels.
King Francis I established a Swiss guard post here in 1525 to protect the coast from pirate attacks. This strategic location shaped the site permanently and gave it its name.
The name recalls a guard post established in 1525 to watch for pirates along the shore. This historical connection gives the place its identity today, even though military patrols no longer happen here.
Access is through Avenue de la Croix-des-Gardes and the area offers various marked paths with different difficulty levels. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as the paths can be demanding in warm weather.
A steel cross created by a modern artist stands at the summit and serves as a landmark for visitors navigating the trails. Local donkeys and occasionally mounted patrols maintain the grounds, echoing the site's historical role as a guard station.
Location: canton of Cannes-Centre
Address: 56 Av. de la Croix des Gardes, 06400 Cannes, France
Website: https://cannes.com/fr/cadre-de-vie/patrimoine/naturel-et-historique/la-croix-des-gardes.html
GPS coordinates: 43.55861,6.98778
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41
Cannes is a city on the French Riviera known for its elegant beaches and glamorous seaside life. Visitors find a mix of modern coastal living and historical treasures that have grown over centuries. The Croisette is the famous waterfront promenade where hotels and cafés define the pace of beachside living. In the old town, the Suquet district, narrow streets and ancient churches await exploration. The Lérins Islands lie offshore and contain a former monastery and historic fortifications. This collection brings together the main places of the city. Alongside beaches and the famous port area, you will find museums, art centers, and villas from different periods. The Forville Market reveals daily life through fresh produce and craftsmanship. Churches in various styles tell the story of local religious history. Parks and viewpoints offer quiet moments and views across the city. Each of these places contributes in its own way to the character of Cannes. Visitors can experience the graceful rhythm of coastal living, explore historic buildings, and discover natural areas nearby. Whether interested in history, art, beaches, or simply the feel of the city, Cannes offers something for different tastes.
Marché Forville
2.1 km
Villa Rothschild
1.4 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Espérance
2 km
Château Vallombrosa
1.6 km
Musée des Explorations du Monde
2.1 km
Villa Éléonore-Louise
1.2 km
Hôtel de ville de Cannes
2.2 km
Promenade de la Pantiero
2.3 km
Marché Forville
2.1 km
Mosquée Iqraa de Cannes
1.8 km
Villa Victoria
1.6 km
Tour du Suquet
2.1 km
Kiosque à musique des allées de la Liberté
2.2 km
Cannes Walk of Fame
2.5 km
Chapelle de la Miséricorde de Cannes
2 km
Tombeau de Prosper Mérimée
1.2 km
Monument aux morts de Cannes
2.2 km
Chapelle Sainte-Anne
2.1 km
Château du Suquet
1.3 km
Building of the Savings Bank of Cannes
2.4 km
Chapelle Saint-Roch de Cannes
1.9 km
Cinéma Arcades
2.3 km
Olympia Cinéma
2.4 km
Jesus is Lord Church
2.3 km
À Lord Brougham
2.3 km
Église protestante évangélique libre de Cannes
1.9 km
Chapelle de l'Institut Stanislas
1.8 km
Villa Schweppes
2.5 kmReviews
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