A Moke Ride on the French Riviera: Routes and Tips

A ride in a Mini Moke along the French Riviera is an experience like no other. With the top down, a gentle breeze, and the sea in the background—the French Riviera was made for this. And the electric Moke, quiet and open-top, is the perfect companion.

Here are our favorite routes between Nice, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.

Distance: 25 km · Estimated time: 1.5 to 2 hours · Difficulty level: beginner, ideal for a first try

The Promenade des Anglais is, of course, the starting point. But if you don’t venture beyond the waterfront, you’ll miss out on the best part.

From the Promenade, head up toward Old Nice and its ochre-colored alleyways. Then head toward the Corniche Inférieure, which runs along the coast toward the east. The views of the Mediterranean gradually open up. In a Moke, every turn is an invitation to slow down.

Recommended stop: Villefranche-sur-Mer —one of the most beautiful villages along the coast. The harbor is one of the deepest in the Mediterranean.

Helpful tip: Leave early in the morning (before 9 a.m.) or in the late afternoon (after 5 p.m.) to avoid summer traffic and enjoy the golden light.

For tips and events: Nice Tourist Office

Distance: 20 km from Nice · Estimated time: 45 min to 1 hr · Difficulty:easy, spectacular

Nice → Èze → Monaco. This stretch of the Grande Corniche is one of the most photographed in France. In an electric Moke—silent and offering unobstructed views of the landscape—it takes on a whole new dimension.

From Nice, take the Route de la Grande Corniche (D2564). The winding road gradually climbs above the coastline. To the left: the Mediterranean Sea. Below: the rooftops of the coastal towns. Above: the azure sky.

Recommended stop: Èze Village. This medieval village, perched 400 meters above sea level, offers a 360-degree view of the coast. The exotic garden is worth a visit.

Upon arrival in Monaco: head down toward the Rock and Port Hercule. The Moke against this backdrop of yachts and limestone cliffs is a sight to behold.

Range: This trip is 20 km—well below the Moke’s range (129 km). You can make the round trip and still have time to take it easy.

Distance: 30 km from Nice · Estimated time: 1-hour drive, 2-hour walk · Difficulty: easy

The Croisette in Cannes is one of the most famous avenues in the world. In a Moke convertible, with the sun and the sea—that’s exactly the setting it deserves.

Head to Cannes via the highway or the coastal road (more scenic, but longer). Once you’re on La Croisette, drive slowly. Take in the palm trees, the facades of the luxury hotels, and the beach just a stone’s throw away. Park and walk down to the Old Port.

Recommended stops: The Forville Market, if you’re there in the morning. Then the harbor, for a coffee with a view of the boats.

For photographers:The late-afternoon light on La Croisette, with the Moke in the foreground, is a visual concept in itself.

Distance: 100 km from Cannes · Estimated travel time: 1.5 hours by car · Type: day trip

Saint-Tropez is the ultimate destination for a Moke. Brigitte Bardot made the Moke legendary there. The harbor, the beaches of Pampelonne, the vineyards of Ramatuelle—every scene is picture-perfect.

Suggested itinerary:
1. Arrival via the Port of Saint-Tropez — parking and a stroll through the narrow streets
2. Road to Pampelonne Beach (D93) — vineyards, wild lavender, and the sea in the distance
3. Ramatuelle — medieval village; visit the market if you’re there on a Thursday or Sunday
4. Return via La Croix-Valmer for a different view of the peninsula

Charging tip: Plan to charge your vehicle in Saint-Tropez. There are several charging stations available in town. The 129-km range is sufficient for trips around the peninsula, but the return trip to Cannes or Nice will require some planning.

Note: We occasionally offer free test drives of the Moke in Saint-Tropez—at the Port of Saint-Tropez and in Ramatuelle.

To plan your visit: Saint-Tropez Tourist Office

First, the weather
The French Riviera enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. But driving a Moke without a top in the rain is a different story. Check the weather conditions at meteo-france.fr before you go. Outside of July and August, mornings can be chilly—bring a light jacket.

Best times to visit
Morning golden hour (7–9 a.m.): golden light, clear roads. Evening golden hour (5–7 p.m.): same magic, but check the sunset time depending on the season.

Parking During the high season, parking in the city centers of the French Riviera is a challenge in itself. Arrive early or park in outlying lots and finish your trip with a walk.

Range
129 km is more than enough for most of these routes. For Saint-Tropez, plan to recharge there. A 2-hour charge is sufficient—just enough time for a nice lunch.

Don't forget to plan your route in advance on ViaMichelin

At SUNCAR France, we offer free test drives of the electric Moke in Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and Saint-Tropez. Thirty minutes, with no obligation, on the roads of your choice.

→ Book my free trial 

We also offer the option to rent your Moke by the day, so you can explore the French Riviera and treat yourself to a memorable experience behind the wheel of this iconic car.

→ Rent my Moke for the day