Discovering the towns of the riviera
Menton was christened in the XIX century the « Pearl of the Riviera » because of its very peculiar geographical situation. The town and its surroundings stand between two mountain sections descending abruptly towards the sea.
The hinterland of Menton offers very diverse itineraries to hiking lovers, with extraordinary landscapes and vistas. You can choose a hike on the shoreline, or in the hinterland mountains.
Discovering the Menton hinterland hiking
Many hiking trails (GR) cross the Menton area. The GR51, known as the « balcony on the Mediterranean » begins in Menton and crosses the Maritime Alps and the Var and the Bouches du Rhone from east to west. There is also the Gr52 that starts in the heart of the National Park of the Mercantour, known for its « vallée des Merveilles” and ending on the Mediterranean in Menton. One of the most beautiful trails in the region.
With its 9.3 kms and its great height difference, you can try the ” circuit des Cabanelles”. The peak of Mount Gallian is the highest point n this hike. It offers an extraordinary vista on the Menton and Nice hinterlands.
For a shorter hike that will nevertheless give you a plunging view on the Mediterranean and the colored old town of Menton, you can start your walk in Castellar. A village perched at 364 meters above sea level. You will enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes on the Côte d’Azur.
Starting from Menton, you also have a multitude of paths that will make you discover the wild coast between Menton and Monaco. For example, take the “sentier des Douaniers” through Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. You will be able to see Villa Cypris, the cabin of the Swiss architect Le Corbusier and the castle of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. These hikes offer incredible panoramas on the seaside, Mount Gros and Mont Agel that overlook Monaco.
The villages close to Menton
During your stay in Menton, discover the villages of the Menton hinterland. The village of Saint Agnès is a must see in the region. Saint Agnès is classified among the « Most beautiful villages in France ». It is also the highest European littoral village, since it culminates at an altitude of 800 meters The remains of the medieval fortified castle dominate the village and offer an incredible view on the village.
Castellar is also a beautiful mediaeval village to visit. The old village has preserved all its authenticity. Castellar is the starting point of several hikes. Your walks will be rich with beautiful panoramas.
The villages of La Turbie or Gorbio will also offer breath taking views on the Mediterranean. To discover the villages nested in the heart of the Menton Riviera, you need to get away from the crowd and appreciate calm and peace.
The villages of the Roya valley are well known for their authenticity, and for their architectures characterized by Franco-Italian History. Among the unmissable, you have Breil-sur-Roya situated on the threshold of the National Park of Mercantour, Saorge which is classified among the most beautiful villages in France, or Tende, the amphitheater shaped village, built on the side of a hill