Trying to relive my seven-day scenic drive along the Côte d’Azur, I find it hard to move past the first day. There are so many photos and memories to share. Starting from Uzès in the morning, we were eager to begin exploring Route des Crêtes—a road that promised spectacular views and delivered at every turn.
When my friend Heidi and I planned our week-long adventure along and above the Côte d’Azur, we knew we wanted to stop in Cassis and then head into the hills, exploring Route des Crêtes in full. We didn’t realize we were about to discover some of the most dramatic landscapes and skyscapes in all of France, from the sparkling Mediterranean waters to the rugged mountains of Provence.
Along the Côte d’Azur, Exploring Route des Crêtes
As the car began its climb, exploring Route des Crêtes quickly became more than just a scenic drive—it was a journey into a whole new world. The road wound through red cliffs, pine forests, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline. From the first overlook, it was clear this drive offered a unique perspective on the southern French coast.
Timing our trip to catch the sunset was a decision I’ll never regret. Late afternoon is when exploring Route des Crêtes is at its most magical. The light softens, shadows stretch across the hills, and the cliffs take on a warm glow that seems almost unreal. Watching the sun dip below the horizon here is an experience that stays with you.
The Thrill of Exploring Route des Crêtes
Driving Route des Crêtes isn’t for the faint of heart. The road is narrow and winding, with hairpin turns and steep climbs that demand full attention. There were moments when it felt like the asphalt was clinging to the very edge of the cliffs. Yet that’s part of the thrill of exploring Route des Crêtes—the way it blends exhilaration with beauty.
For all its challenges, the drive is also peaceful. With each turn, new vistas open—rugged mountains, distant villages, and the endless blue of the sea. It’s a route that forces you to slow down, breathe, and take in the details.
History Along Route des Crêtes
While exploring Route des Crêtes, you’ll find it’s more than just a natural wonder—it’s also steeped in history. During World War II, the road played a vital role in defending the region, giving an unobstructed view of naval activity in the Mediterranean. Hidden among the cliffs are remnants of military bunkers and lookout points once used by both German forces and the French Resistance.
Sunset and the Perfect Ending
One of the most memorable moments while exploring the Route des Crêtes was finding the perfect spot to watch the sunset. From a high viewpoint, we could see the towns below bathed in golden light. As the sun sank, the cliffs glowed red, the sky shifted to pink and orange, and the water reflected every color.
It was the kind of moment you wish you could bottle—an unforgettable end to a day spent exploring Route des Crêtes, a road that offers both breathtaking scenery and a deep connection to the history and beauty of Provence.
The Route *
Day One
Uzès
Hills of Cassis
St Cyr sur Mer
Bandol
Town of Cassis
Route des Crêtes through Forêt Communale de la Ciotat
St. Cyr sur Mer
Stay tuned as we chase the sunsets along the Côte d’Azur, uncovering the hidden gems and breathtaking views that make this part of France unique. If exploring Route des Crêtes is an example, you can imagine more adventures and amazing sunsets to come.
