"Even for those who have seen Switzerland and Savoy, there is something beautiful about the mountain covered by the dark greenery of the Esterel. Here, the Alps die with dignity." — Victor Hugo

The Esterel massif is a hidden gem. Between the Mediterranean and the limestone landscapes of Provence, this volcanic massif — once joined to Corsica some 250 million years ago — spans 32,000 hectares of red rock, dotted with steep-walled coves, jagged ridgelines, state forests and juniper scrubland. It is this wild setting, so close to the coast yet so far from the modern world, that gives the area's rental villas their exceptional appeal.

Spanning mainly five towns — Saint-Raphaël, Roquebrune-sur-Argens, Puget-sur-Argens, Les Adrets-de-l'Esterel and Fréjus, grouped since 2013 within the Esterel Côte d'Azur agglomeration community — the Esterel has been inhabited since prehistoric times, as shown by the Saint-Raphaël Archaeological Museum.

5 reasons this destination stands apart

• Exceptional sunshine — 2,700 hours of sunshine a year, among the best averages in France, perfect for enjoying your villa's outdoor spaces all year round.
• Unusual sights — the Île d'Or off Le Dramont, the Corniche d'Or linking Cannes to Saint-Raphaël, the Villepey ponds, and the Esterel's coves and sea caves.
• Outstanding scenery — on foot, by bike or by boat, every town along the coast offers breathtaking landscapes.
• Year-round activities — paddleboarding, diving, via ferrata, electric mountain biking, gliding: the Esterel is enjoyed in every season.
• Rich heritage — the Way of St James in Puget-sur-Argens, Saint-Raphaël's basilica, the Roman remains of Fréjus: 2,000 years of history to explore. (Source: Agence Esterel Côte d'Azur)

Anthéor, the secluded cove

Tucked between Le Trayas and Agay, Anthéor is one of the most discreet addresses along the Var coastline. The famous Corniche d'Or viaduct, red coves plunging straight into turquoise waters, and the absence of large-scale tourist development make it a favourite among those seeking authenticity. Villas here often enjoy direct or near-direct access to the coves, in a setting that has remained largely untouched.

Agay, the Riviera's legendary bay

Agay is home to one of the coastline's most beautiful natural bays, framed by Cap Dramont and the Rastel d'Agay. Long favoured by celebrities and artists, the resort charms visitors with its wide sandy beaches, marina and immediate access to the Esterel's hiking trails. Agay's villas, often set in the wooded hills or slightly back from the bay, offer open views over the sea and surrounding massif, while remaining just minutes from the beaches and shops.

Saint-Raphaël, historic town meets unspoiled coastline

The eastern gateway to the Esterel, Saint-Raphaël combines heritage, seaside energy and direct access to the massif's finest coves. Its Byzantine basilica, casino, Provençal market and numerous beaches make it a complete destination — equally suited to a lively stay or to quieter, more residential neighbourhoods such as Boulouris or Le Dramont. Saint-Raphaël's villas strike an excellent balance between resort living and residential calm, with easy access to the TGV station and motorway.

Théoule-sur-Mer and Le Trayas, a discreet alternative to Cannes

To the west of the massif, Théoule-sur-Mer and Le Trayas rank among the most sought-after addresses for luxury villa rentals on the French Riviera. Hillside villas within private estates, direct access to secluded coves, and views over the Bay of Cannes and the Lérins Islands: this area offers an exceptional setting just minutes from the Croisette, while keeping a rare sense of residential privacy.

Discover our full selection of properties on our dedicated page: Luxury Villa Rentals in Théoule-sur-Mer.

Le Trayas, red cliffs and hidden coves

A natural extension of Théoule-sur-Mer to the east, Le Trayas is known for its coves — some reachable only via steep paths — its villas perched on cliffsides, and panoramic views ranking among the most spectacular on the coast. It is here that the Corniche d'Or reveals its finest viewpoints, where red rock meets turquoise sea. A prime location for those seeking absolute calm and sweeping views.

Mandelieu-la-Napoule, golf courses, marina and mimosa

At the gateway to Cannes, Mandelieu-la-Napoule offers a rich variety of experiences: fine sandy beaches, La Napoule's marina overlooked by its medieval castle, and several of the region's most renowned golf courses. Famous for its mimosa fields in winter, the town offers a green, residential setting particularly popular with families and golf enthusiasts, with quick access to Cannes-Mandelieu airport and Cannes itself.

Fréjus, a historic city between the sea and the Esterel

A city of art and history founded by Julius Caesar, Fréjus boasts remarkable ancient heritage — an amphitheatre, aqueduct and cathedral — alongside a broad seafront and direct access to the Esterel massif. Between the historic quarter, the marina and the residential hills overlooking the massif, the town offers a wide range of settings for a villa stay, blending heritage and nature.

Saint-Aygulf, the family-friendly resort at the foot of the Esterel

A seaside district of Fréjus, Saint-Aygulf is known for its long sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere and marina. It is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Villepey ponds, a nature reserve popular with birdwatchers, offering a peaceful setting while remaining just minutes from Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël.

Ready to discover our available villas in the Esterel area?

Magrey & Sons, your prestige real estate specialist

From the wild Esterel massif to the secluded coves of Théoule-sur-Mer, by way of the historic heritage of Fréjus and the laid-back elegance of Saint-Raphaël, this stretch of the Var and Riviera coastline offers a rare diversity of settings for an exceptional stay.

A prestige real estate specialist for several decades, Magrey & Sons helps clients find and rent luxury villas throughout the Esterel area: Anthéor, Agay, Saint-Raphaël, Théoule-sur-Mer, Le Trayas, Mandelieu-la-Napoule, Fréjus and Saint-Aygulf. Whether for a family stay, a summer holiday or an exceptional seasonal residence, our team offers a curated selection of properties meeting the highest standards of comfort, location and service.

Contact Magrey & Sons to discover our prestige villas available for rent throughout the Esterel area and across the French Riviera.