Coastal walks along the Riviera
The French Riviera offers wonderful walking, fascinating art, architecture and history. Take time to visit the new Matisse museum in Nice, one of many excellent galleries. Much remains from the famous Belle Époque period, when wealthy Russian princes and English earls built palatial villas. History reaches back even further, with Roman monuments, bridges, and ancient roads. In many towns and villages, the narrow twisting streets and colourful buildings of the old quarters transport you back to the Middle Ages. For those interested in more recent wonders, the shopping is fabulous. Find haute couture fashions, interior decorations, unique perfumes and delicious candied fruits.
Menton, France
Day 1+2
Monaco-Ville, Monaco
Day 3+4
Villefranche-sur-Mer, France
Day 5+7
Nice, France
Day 6
| Start any date from May 1 to Sep 30. |
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| Custom trips are also available and can start any date, call or email for details. |
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelModerate
Hiking: 2.5 to 4 hrs daily average
TerrainSome of the walks climb up into the hills above the coast, while others are easy walks on level terrain
CostClassic Accommodation: US $2,450
Single Supplement: US $610
Luxe Accommodation: US $5,030
Single Supplement: US $1,150
Getting There
The tour starts in Menton, approximately 15 km east of Nice, which is the main point of access for the area.
There are flights to Nice from many European gateway cities, including Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Geneva. Menton can also be reached by train from major cities. We’ll provide you with directions to the tour start.
Menton
Arrive in Menton. Stroll along the narrow streets and winding alleys of the old town. You won’t be able to resist the colourful shops offering tablecloths and napkins made of bright Provençal fabrics. Wander along the beach and the old port. Relax at a café and watch the world go by.
Menton
Start with a bus ride to Castellar, from where you walk into wonderful, quiet country and to Ste-Agnès, the highest coastal village in Europe. Climb through the cobbled streets of the village to the remains of an 11th-century castle high above the sea. Visit the museum dedicated to the Maginot Line and explore the fortifications that were part of this Alpine defense line. Then descend back to the bustle of the Menton.
Hiking time: 2.5 hours, with additional 1.5 hours possible
Monaco
Today follow one of the most stunning coastal walks along the Riviera. Walk around Cap Martin, past opulent villas and exclusive hotels, pause among pine trees to watch the turquoise surf wash among the white rocks. Your destination is the glamorous principality of Monaco, with its chic shops, museums, and lovely beach.
Hiking time: up to 4 hours
Monaco
Enjoy a delightful walk high in the hills above the coast. Take the bus to La Turbie, a wonderful perched town with a spectacular view of the coast. La Turbie is the site of the Alpine Trophy, erected in 6 BC to commemorate the important victories in the Roman conquest of the Alps and one of the only two remaining trophies still standing. Take time to follow the nature trail and learn about the local flora before returning to Monaco.
Hiking time: 2.25 hours
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Wind your way up to the magnificent perched village of Èze, following in the steps of the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who found the climb highly inspiring. Explore the beautifully restored winding streets of the village, the many craft workshops, and the famous exotic garden. Take another look at the breathtaking view, then head for Beaulieu and set off on your walk around Cap Ferrat passing some of the most sumptuous villas on the Riviera, including one of the best known, the Rothschild Villa. Your destination is the charming resort of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Hiking times: 3 hours for the Eze walk; 4 hours around Cap Ferrat
Nice
Explore Nice today. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and take some time to sit and contemplate the azure sea. Browse in the shops along the Rue Massina, then head for the port, lined by squares and quays lined by lovely ochre-coloured buildings built in the 19th century. Be sure to visit Old Nice, which many art historians consider one of the most beautiful old quarters in France. You can also climb to Cimiez and the new Matisse Museum.
Depart
Enjoy a last morning on the French Riviera before departing for your next adventure.
Since 1865, this former barracks for the carabiniere of the princes of Monaco has welcomed lovers of the French Riviera. The hotel offers uninterrupted view of the sea, the Italian Riviera, the Old Town of Menton and Cape Martin.
Conveniently situated in La Condamine district, the hotel is walking distance from the main tourist attractions including Casino Square and the beautiful Place d’Arms. Malizia, the renowned hotel restaurant offers Italian specialties in a Liberty style setting.
Five minutes from the beach, this character hotel from the early 20th Century was rebuilt in original Provençal style. All of La Flore’s guest rooms have either balconies or terraces overlooking the stunning natural harbour of Villefranche. Enjoy the beach or relax by the hotel’s own outdoor swimming pool.
Since 1865, this former barracks for the carabiniere of the princes of Monaco has welcomed lovers of the French Riviera. The hotel offers uninterrupted view of the sea, the Italian Riviera, the Old Town of Menton and Cape Martin.
This riviera-style hotel in trendy Fontvielle, across from the Princess Grace Rose garden boasts views over the Mediterranean. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a fabulous restaurant, Tavolo.
This 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Villefrance, and directly on the sea next to many restaurants. All of the rooms have a sea view and balcony.
Tour Reviews
The location was absolutely gorgeous. The food was exceptional. My husband liked the hiking and seeing the sites visitors don’t usually see.
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