8 Unusual spring experiences on the Côte d’Azur | Côte d’Azur France / French Riviera

1. Diving with the underwater statues of Cannes

Beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, off the Ile Sainte-Marguerite, lies a fascinating work of art: six monumental underwater sculptures by British artist Jason deCaires Taylor. These statues, representing the faces of Cannes residents, are gradually being colonised by marine flora and fauna, creating a fusion between art and biodiversity.

Accessible to beginners and experienced divers alike, this immersion is an opportunity to explore a unique underwater museum!

How do you get there? Snorkelling and diving excursions are offered by local clubs.

Visit Europe's first underwater museum

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2. Discover Nice with Nice Greeters

Would you like to discover Nice in a different way, away from the usual tourist routes? Nice Greeters are passionate locals who offer free, personalised walks to share their secret corners and historical anecdotes.

With them, you can explore the colourful streets of Vieux-Nice, the small Provencal markets and the hidden viewpoints over the Baie des Anges. It’s a friendly, authentic experience, where each tour is unique and tailored to visitors’ tastes!

Practical info: Free online booking.

Meet a Nice Greeter

3. Wilderness immersion and wildlife safari in the Réserve des Monts d’Azur

Just an hour from the Côte d’Azur, set off for an unusual and immersive experience at the heart of the Réserve des Monts d’Azur, where European bison, an emblematic prehistoric animal that came close to extinction, roam free.

This 700-hectare natural sanctuary in Thorenc is home to some exceptional wildlife: as well as bison, you can see deer, Przewalski’s horses, wild boar and a wide variety of birds of prey.

Unlike a zoo, here the animals live in complete freedom in an unspoilt ecosystem. On foot, in a horse-drawn carriage or on a 4×4 safari, explore the reserve and observe these majestic giants in their natural habitat.

Good to know: Tours are available all year round, with excursions tailored to families and nature lovers. For total immersion, you can even spend the night on site, in an ecolodge or safari tent.

Immerse yourself in the wild

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4. Horse riding in the heart of the Estérel at sunset

Enjoy a magical and immersive experience exploring the Massif de l’Estérel on horseback, as the sun sets over the glowing cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean. This exceptional natural setting, with its volcanic rocks, pine forests and panoramic sea views, becomes even more spectacular in the golden evening light.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of the horse and admire the unique panoramas of the Côte d’Azur coastline. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, these rides are accessible to all, allowing you to reconnect with nature while enjoying a moment of relaxation and contemplation of the Massif de l’Estérel.

Worth knowing: A number of riding centres offer rides to suit all levels, with a variety of itineraries between forests and panoramic ridges.

What to see and do in l'Estérel?

5. Ride France’s longest zip line at La Colmiane

Looking for a thrill? Head for the resort of La Colmiane, in the Mercantour, to try out the longest zip line in France! With 2.6 km of descent and speeds of up to 130 km/h, you’ll feel like you’re flying over the mountains.

Flying over forests and rocky ridges is a spectacular, adrenalin-fuelled experience. A perfect activity for adventure lovers and those who want to see the Côte d’Azur from a new angle!

And for even more thrills? La Colmiane also offers a summer toboggan on rails, a fun and fast descent to try out, perfect for varying the pleasures with family or friends.

Book a zip-line descent

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6. Paragliding over the coast

For an unforgettable aerial experience, why not take to the skies above the Côte d’Azur in a paraglider? From Roquebrune-Cap-Martin or Gourdon, the flight offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the mountains, still covered in snow in spring.

Carried along by the winds, you’ll have the sensation of floating between sky and sea, in an imposing setting. It’s the perfect experience for lovers of thrills and spectacular views!

Did you know that? On some flights you can even see Corsica on a clear day! And for an extra adrenalin rush, you can ask your instructor to add a few acrobatic tricks. Thrills guaranteed!

Book a flight now

7. Sleep in unusual accommodation under the stars

Why not extend the experience by spending a night in unusual accommodation? There are several options on the Côte d’Azur:

A transparent bubble in the heart of nature, to sleep under the stars and watch the night sky.
A tree house, to wake up to the sound of the birds.
An ecolodge in the heart of the Mercantour, for total immersion in nature.

Worth trying out : Unusual accommodation in the hinterland of Nice, Grasse and the Esterel, perfect for a weekend away from it all!

Discover all our unusual accommodation

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8. Canyoning in the Gorges du Loup

Spring is the ideal time to try your hand at canyoning in the Gorges du Loup, when the temperatures are mild and the water offers a welcome coolness. This natural spot in the hinterland of Nice is perfect for an immersive water adventure, between crystal-clear rivers and cliffs sculpted by time.

The programme includes natural slides, jumps into turquoise pools and abseiling down waterfalls. A perfect blend of thrills and spectacular scenery, accessible to all.

Suitable for Suitable for beginners and advanced riders alike, under the supervision of an experienced guide. Several routes are available, with varying levels of difficulty.