Calanque des Anglais
Saint-Raphael, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France
Calanque des Anglais sits just past the beach at Agay near Saint-Raphael on France's Cote d'Azur, three small coves of red pebble separated by rocky outcrops and backed by the volcanic red cliffs of the Esterel massif. Caves and rock formations along the edges make it a favorite for snorkeling and cliff jumping, reached by a short but steep hike or by boat.
A genuinely striking spot against the red Esterel cliffs with real snorkeling and jumping to offer, but the steep stairs and scarce parking mean it rewards planning over spontaneity.
Arrive early on weekends. Parking is genuinely limited near the trailhead, and the spots fill up well before midday once the summer crowds arrive.
There's a small parking area near the trailhead in Agay, though spaces are limited and fill quickly, especially on summer weekends.
The stairs down to the coves are steep, and the terrain around the pebble beaches is rocky and uneven, not suited to strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone unsteady on steps.
June through September brings the warm, dry Cote d'Azur summer and the calmest water for snorkeling among the coves, with dogs restricted from the beaches during that same swimming season.
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