If you're the kind of traveller who needs a little adrenaline with your Mediterranean views, this one's for you. Pointe Sainte-Marguerite, just 20 minutes from Villa Mauricette, is where Toulon's coastline turns wild. Forget the gentle coves and sandy beaches — here, the cliffs drop straight into deep blue water, sea caves cut into the rock, and the only way to explore is by kayak or on the rock face itself.

--- THE SEA CAVES OF SAN PEYRE

The highlight of any kayak outing here is the San Peyre cave system. Accessible only from the water, these caves are carved into the limestone cliffs and filled with filtered turquoise light. Paddle in slowly, let your eyes adjust, and you'll find yourself in a natural cathedral. The approach from the nearby launch points takes around 20–30 minutes, following the cliff line east. Along the way, you'll pass rocky inlets, underwater boulders visible through the clear water, and the occasional fisherman's boat anchored in a hidden nook. Our tip: go in the morning, when the light enters the caves from the right angle and the sea is at its calmest.

--- DEEP-WATER SOLOING AT LA PIADE

For climbers — or the simply curious — La Piade is one of the best psicobloc (deep-water soloing) spots in the South of France. The cliffs overhang deep water, and routes range from grade 4 to grade 7, meaning there's something for beginners and experienced climbers alike. The concept is simple: you climb. If you fall, you fall into the sea. No ropes, no harness — just rock, water, and gravity. It's exhilarating, surprisingly accessible, and the kind of experience you'll talk about long after you've dried off. Best conditions: calm sea, warm weather (June to September), and ideally with someone who knows the routes.

--- MAGAUD COVE: THE GENTLE FINISH

After the caves and the cliffs, wind down at Magaud Cove — a short paddle or walk away. The water is clear, the pebble beach is tucked between pines, and it's the perfect place to float, rest, and process the morning's adventure. From Magaud, you can also pick up the coastal path to Cap Brun for a scenic walk back along the cliffs. It's a gentler perspective on the same dramatic coastline.

--- WHERE TO EAT

The coves around Sainte-Marguerite are picnic territory. Bring a bag with bread, cheese, fruit and water — there are no facilities on site. For a post-paddle meal, head to the restaurants around Le Mourillon (15 minutes by car), where you'll find seafood terraces overlooking the bay of Toulon.

--- PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Getting there: 20 minutes from Villa Mauricette. Launch from the small beach near Pointe Sainte-Marguerite or from Magaud Cove.

• Kayak rental: Kayak Vert La Garde or Club Nautique de La Garde. Half-day from ~€20.

• Deep-water soloing: La Piade cliffs. Routes graded 4 to 7. No equipment needed beyond swimwear and confidence. • Conditions: Always check wind and sea state before heading out. Avoid swell days for kayaking and climbing.

• What to bring: Water shoes, water (1.5L minimum), snacks, sun protection, dry bag for phone/keys.

• Family note: Kayaking is suitable for confident paddlers with children (calm days only). Deep-water soloing is best for teens and adults.

--- OUR VERDICT

Pointe Sainte-Marguerite is Toulon's adventure coastline. Not extreme, not reckless — just wild enough to feel like you've earned something special. The caves, the climbing, the light on the water — it's a side of the Mediterranean that most visitors never see.

→ Want to add a bit of adventure to your stay? We'll help you organise the perfect day. Chat with us on WhatsApp or book directly at villa-mauricette.com