Getting back to basics
In today's hyper-connected world, many of us feel the need to get back to basics, to simplicity and sobriety. Estérel Côte d'Azur is a natural destination, with its imposing landscapes, landforms, colours and biodiversity. It's also home to Provencal culture and a rich history waiting to be discovered. We're sharing our top tips on how to make your holidays more meaningful and feel at one with nature by practising slow tourism!
Our 10 ideas for an eco-friendly holiday!
![](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/automnexavier-ot-saint-raphael-29-440x410.jpg)
1. Travel out of season
Why travel out of season? Off-season or mid-season is the perfect time to enjoy a more virtuous form of travel, with a focus on authenticity and tranquillity. Avoid the crowds, take advantage of the mild climate and attractive prices. Autumn is an ideal time to discover the region's gastronomy and oenology, as well as to enjoy the sparkling colours. In winter, enjoy the mimosa blossom or discover our region by train. In spring, admire the flowers in bloom and take the opportunity to explore our paths on foot or by bike!
Discover![voyager en train en Estérel Côte d'Azur image couv](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/voyager-en-train-en-esterel-cote-dazur-image-couv-440x410.jpg)
2. Visit l'Estérel in slow mode
We know how difficult it can be to do without a car. However, there are several options available to you. You can reach our destination by public transport (train, bus, car-sharing) or choose to bring your car but not use it (too much) on site. To do this, take the local bus routes, cycle or discover the treasures of the Esterel by train! The TER line between Fréjus and Le Trayas serves no fewer than five stations along the Corniche d'Or.
DiscoverGetting around the region by train
Two main railway stations: Saint-Raphaël/Valescure SNCF station and Fréjus SNCF station.
Five stopping points: Boulouris, Le Dramont, Agay, Anthéor and Le Trayas.
Getting around by bus
The Le Bus network provides transport between the 5 communes of the conurbation: Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël, Puget-sur-Argens, les Adrets de l'Estérel and Roquebrune-sur-Argens. To find out about timetables, the places served, the network map, season tickets or even calculate a route, visit esterelcotedazur-lebus.fr
To travel outside the Estérel Côte d'Azur area, you can use the ZOU! regional network.
Dedicated car-sharing areas in the area
Motorway junction 39 at Les Adrets de l'Estérel: capacity for 36 vehicles
Capitou motorway interchange (n°38, towards Nice): capacity for 40 vehicles
Puget-sur-Argens motorway interchange (n°37): capacity of 26 places
![Ecolodge l'étoile d'Argens](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ecolodge-de-largens-440x410.jpg)
3. Choose eco-responsible accommodation
Of all the accommodation available in the Estérel Côte d'Azur, some are committed to working in a more environmentally-friendly way. By reducing energy and water consumption, for example, or cutting down on waste. The clef verte label is a guarantee of the environmental commitment of tourist accommodation, which must meet over a hundred criteria for sustainable tourism management.
Discover![marché Fréjus](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/marches-reseauxsociaux-440x410.jpg)
4. Savour the local specialities
Savour the specialities of Provence and sample the fresh, seasonal flavours. Take advantage of the markets and meet the local producers! Choose products from sustainable fisheries. Your stay will be all the richer for it, and you'll be contributing to the local economy!
Discover local products![massif Estérel et pins](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/sitesnaturels-massif-esterel5-440x410.jpg)
5. Eco-actions on holiday: just like at home!
There's no holiday for eco-actions! When it comes to sorting your rubbish, look out for the nearest collection points to your accommodation. When you go out, remember to take a bag so that you can sort your rubbish on your return. Think "zero waste": take a tote bag for your purchases, flasks and airtight boxes for picnics. If you smoke, remember to take a pocket ashtray with you (available from Saint-Raphaël Town Hall).
![activite nature](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/activites-nature-visite-guidee-1-440x410.jpg)
6. Meet the locals
Sustainable travel also means sharing with local people and immersing yourself in their culture and traditions. You'll find plenty of opportunities to interact: join in the local festivities or talk to our craftsmen and producers. They'll be in the best position to help you discover the region. Soak up the local culture by visiting museums and historic sites. Experience an authentic holiday!
![activités écoresponsables et électriques](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/activites-ecoresponsables-et-electriques-440x410.jpg)
7. Opt for low-impact activities
Go on an adventure on foot or by bike in l'Estérel. Recharge your batteries in the heart of nature and make the most of our destination's creeks and coves. Looking for a fun way to get your thrills? Try our 100% electric activities: overboat, sea scooter or electric mountain bike, there's something for everyone!
Discover![randonnée Pic de l'Ours](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/randonnees-balades-esterel2-440x410.jpg)
8. Connect with nature
Getting to know the nature around you will motivate you to put these good practices into practice. Take a walk along the Mérou trails in Port-Fréjus, an invitation to think about protecting the marine environment. Discover the natural areas of l'Estérel accompanied by a guide specialising in flora and fauna, who will reveal the secrets of the local biodiversity.
Discover![world cleanup day esterel puget](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/blog-world-cleanup-day-esterel2-440x410.jpg)
9. Get involved!
Why not combine business with pleasure by picking up litter during your walks? World Cleanup Day is held every year. Join us in September to take part in one of these initiatives in Estérel Côte d'Azur.
Want to go further? You can also play a part in raising awareness among those around you by sharing your eco-responsible experience!
World Cleanup Day![](https://www.esterel-cotedazur.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/sitesnaturels-sentierlittoral2-440x410.jpg)
10. Offset your carbon emissions
You can calculate and offset the emissions linked to your trip that you were unable to avoid. The Goodplanet foundation makes it easy!
Calculer mes émissions carbones