Les Champouns: Ultimate Nature Retreat in Saint-martin-vesubie

This massive mountain plays the role of sentry of the high valleys and offers the visitor a look of exceptional magnitude. The trail starts shortly after the center of the village from Nice. 1- 1- Take a right turn on an asphalt track. Continue on a path passing behind some houses via the beacon 32. The trail rises quietly before winding up a bit. Continue climbing to an intersection 4 km from this point. 2- Turn off to the left as indicated at the beacon 8, then climb to the summit crest of Mont-Vial, which is easily reached via the beacon 285. 3- The return is made by the same itinerary.

A sporty hike in the heart of the Mercantour Park, the summit of Mangiabo offers a splendid 360° panorama over the high peaks of the Eastern Mercantour, the border summits, and the sea from San Remo to the Cap d'Antibes and the Estérel massif to the southwest. The itinerary is entirely in the heart of the Mercantour park, and is subject to its regulations. 1) Coming from Breil, take the 1st track on the right, just after the Brouis pass (879 m), ball. 124. Continue straight on, and park at the level of the old barracks and blockhouses. 2) Bal. 125, start the ascent to the Baisse de Levens (1093 m), bal. 139. 3) Turn right at the drop, the route follows the rising ridge line. 4) In large, steeply sloping pastures, the path bends to the right, and crosses crosses the slope to reach the next ridge line. Then, with Then, with a few big laces, join the ridge at marker 144 (1777 m). 5) Another 5 minutes on the ridge to reach the summit (1821 m), marked by a large cairn. 6) Return by the same route. NB: it is possible to reach the summit of Mangiabo from Sospel by the GR 52, and from Moulinet.

Beautiful sporty hike to the Mercantour National Park. From the b 192, at the wrought iron cross, mounted on a stone plinth between the Terminus hotel and the campsite, after a fairly steep climb you will pass between a large white building and a Saint Maurice chapel, you will follow a chestnut grove, then in the wood of conifers and deciduous trees, there the climb will be less painful.b193 .... b227. At the Igronte fountain a very cool spring awaits you. The path follows the torrent of the céva which flows below. Jugal Lake. At tag 229 you will find the entrance to the Mercantour park (Regulations to read). Between the b 230 and b 231 you will find a sheepfold on your way, a few meters above the monument erected in memory of the American soldiers who died in a plane crash (September 1944). The Céva plateau, the conches between b 231 and b 232. And finally after a long walk you will reach Jugale lake (Alt. 2,172 m). Go on !! a last effort to reach the Pas de Colle rousse (Alt 2 261 m). And there a superb panorama awaits you: a magnificent view of the lakes of the Vallée des Merveilles. To return, take the opposite route. Don't let the fog surprise you! The day before your hike, find out about the weather.

Sporty loop around Fontan. Starting from Fontan, cross the Roya in front of the bridge, take the path that goes up to the cemetery, then the track that goes towards Pévé b201, b202, take the path b 201 then b 202 which joins the barns of Arres ( Alt 1 236 m), b 209. On the mountain opposite you will see the two pretty hamlets of Berghe. Follow the valley of Cieuttes b208 to the right towards the Lugo drop (Altitude 1,480 m) b 207. Go towards b 204 La Fontaine Des Chiens. A stop is essential !! You will come across many water points to cool off. At the b 203 take the path on the right, the cold Fontaine valley, you will reach the Piste de Pévé and finally Fontan.

A long loop on the track, which allows you to soak up the preserved landscapes of the Roya valley, the Cairos valley and the Maglia valley which flirt with the heart of the Mercantour national park. Splendid view down to the sea from Colla Bassa. Accessible by train from Fontan-Saorge or Breil stations. Take the RD 40 which goes up the Cairos valley due north-west from the RD 6204 at the foot of the village of Saorge, on the left before Fontan coming from Breil. Follow it almost to the end: Pass the hamlet of Maurion, the Gafeug bridge (marker 174), continue to climb, the Merim valley (marker 186) on your right, then at the place called La Castagna take the wide DFCI track on the left which crosses the Cairos valley. Go up the hill through the thick forest (do not take the track on the right) until you reach Colla Bassa on the ridge line. A pause to contemplate the panaroma is obligatory! You can see the blue of the sea to the south, and to the north-east the border ridges of Mont Bertrand and the Marguareis massif. Three tracks are available to you: Switch to the other side, to the south, and you will start the descent. The track that descends on the ubac joins it but is a little longer, and carries more risk of getting lost. You will gently skirt the beautiful valley of the Maglia, its farms and its large sheepfolds, to cross it at the bottom of the valley. On the right bank you will find the tarmac. Be careful, the road is very narrow, unprotected, and you may pass vehicles. Some breathtaking views of the canyon and the Maglia Gorge, very impressive. Once you reach the RD 2204 Breil-Sospel via the Col de Brouis, turn left to go down to Breil, then left at the crossroads with the RD 6204 if you wish to return to your starting point. The Breil train station is 800 m further down on the right.

Beautiful hike starting from the Col de Brouis between Breil sur Roya and Sospel.

Superb ridge walk on a track, technically easy and short. Arrival at the top of Mount Grazian, breathtaking 360° view of the sea to the south and the eastern end of the Mercantour with Mount Bego and the Marguareis massif to the extreme north-east. Park at the Col de Brouis, altitude 879 m, located between Sospel and Breil-sur-Roya on the RD 2204. The view is already magnificent, with the village of Saorge clinging to the steep slopes opposite you on the north side. You can also choose to cycle to the Col de Brouis from Breil on the RD 2204, or on the GR 52A, or from Sospel. Marker 124. Take the track that leaves on the north side to the left of the inn. It will pass quickly to the south. Continue straight ahead (do not take the track that goes left towards the antennas and the cime du Bosc). You follow the GR52 A route up to the marker 119 at the Col de Paula. There, the GR will go down on the right by a path, You take the right track. (The track on the left leads to the very pretty perched hamlet of Piene-Haute: on the way back you can choose to make a detour to visit this eagle's nest, its churches and chapel and its castle, and enjoy the breathtaking view). Along the way you will see some old border markers. A few hairpin bends and you are at the top of Mount Grazian, which dominates Sospel and its fields, nothing stopping your vision, Mount Grazian being an isolated summit. Return by the same route. Remember to take water, the route is in full sun. Avoid the hottest hours of the day in midsummer; in summer, early mornings or evenings are best.

3-hour walk to the Peiremont pass. In front of the station, take the winding and steep path until b 430. Continue on the path in front of you, until b 429 (Baisse de Cachin), continue your road to the left on the ridge of Peiremont until Col de Peiremont b 432. Take the path on the left, you will descend to the valley of Pévé which is often dry. But beware during heavy rains an impetuous torrent flows in this valley. You will pass through a tunnel where the Fontanais took refuge during the bombings of the last world war. You will finally arrive on the Saorge road facing the Fontan war memorial.

An easy and pleasant route to discover the medieval village of La Brigue, somewhat away from the Roya Valley. A "fresh" route on the old path that linked Saint-Dalmas-de-Tende to La Brigue ... From the station, join the RN6204. Follow this road, turning right in the direction of Ventimiglia, go through the tunnel and then, after the shops (butcher's, grocer's), take the first road on the left which leads to the other side of the Roya via a small bridge (signposted "Sainte-Anne, chemin des Terris"). Cross the Roya bridge at marker 40 and take the small tarmac road to the right, which climbs slightly to reach marker 41. Turn left and follow the signs for "La Brigue". Follow a track until you reach a house where the Sainte-Anne trail begins. The route passes through gullies at the level of the Porcaresso cliffs, then near an abandoned railway shelter. After reaching marker 42, continue straight on towards La Brigue, through the Armaneïra forest. You'll find the ruins of the chapel of Sainte Anne. Pass the oratory of Saint Valentin, and at marker 43, descend into the village. The finish line is at marker 44 near the Collegiate Church, in front of the Place de la Mairie. Take time to visit La Brigue through the narrow streets.

A very nice walk in a loop which will make you admire the medieval village clinging to the slopes planted with olive trees from different angles; idyllic pause, snack or picnic and bathing at the Sémite bath, and return to the shade of the chestnut trees.

Take advantage of the Var River rapids to try an action-filled white water activity!  TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE VAR RIVER RAPIDS TO TRY AN ACTION-FILLED WHITE WATER ACTIVITY! Located between the sea and the mountains, under the sun of the Savel Plateau, you will be equipped and briefed before arriving at the departure point located higher up the river where you will board your canoe either alone or with a partner. The canoe’s are rigid or inflatable rafts that are sturdy and easy to navigate whether in autonomy or accompanied by a guide.  Enjoy a 90 minutes descent (10km) rich in adrenaline-fueled emotions in the heart of one of the most beautiful valley’s in the region. You will come across a number of rapids on this active and lively river. At the end of the descent, take some time to relax by taking a refreshing swim in the heart of nature before heading back to the departure point by mini-bus.

Summit overlooking Sospel and Breil sur Roya, it culminates at 1821 meters. Many hikes are possible. Departure of the walks from the Col de Brouis.

A sporty hike in the heart of the Mercantour Park, the summit of Mangiabo offers a splendid 360° panorama over the high peaks of the Eastern Mercantour, the border summits, and the sea from San Remo to the Cap d'Antibes and the Estérel massif to the southwest. The itinerary is entirely in the heart of the Mercantour park, and is subject to its regulations. 1) Coming from Breil, take the 1st track on the right, just after the Brouis pass (879 m), ball. 124. Continue straight on, and park at the level of the old barracks and blockhouses. 2) Bal. 125, start the ascent to the Baisse de Levens (1093 m), bal. 139. 3) Turn right at the drop, the route follows the rising ridge line. 4) In large, steeply sloping pastures, the path bends to the right, and crosses crosses the slope to reach the next ridge line. Then, with Then, with a few big laces, join the ridge at marker 144 (1777 m). 5) Another 5 minutes on the ridge to reach the summit (1821 m), marked by a large cairn. 6) Return by the same route. NB: it is possible to reach the summit of Mangiabo from Sospel by the GR 52, and from Moulinet.

Located along the old Savoyard salt road, the Notre-Dame des Grâces chapel is halfway between the village and the Brouis pass. As an epidemic of plague ravages Breil-sur Roya, the inhabitants go to implore the Virgin at the sanctuary of Rocaforte de Mondovi. They commit themselves, if the plague ceases, to raise a chapel on the path through which the plague has arrived. Their wish granted, they build this chapel also called Notre Dame des Neiges, and seal a plaque indicating: "Comm. communitas Brelii, tempore pestis 1631, Augt. votum feisset, quod intercessione, ss Marie Virginis, arque Rosalie et Roch, libera fuit", "The community of Breil at the time of the plague of 1631 had made a vow on August 5, because, through the intercession of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, of Saint Rosalie and Saint Roch, she was set free". Several ex-voto and a pair of crutches testify and wishes granted.

Fortification part of the Maginot line. It is a small artillery work that aimed to prohibit the Brouis pass connecting the Roya valley to the north and the Bévéra valley to the south. Built near the fort of the Col de Brouis, these barracks house the troops in charge of the artillery and the operation of this structure, but also the soldiers of the forward posts of the top of the Bosc and the Cougoule. During the fighting for the liberation of Breil sur Roya in April 1945, the Germans dug in and inflicted heavy losses on the free French of the 1st DFL. Severely damaged by shells and bombs, this fort is abandoned to the army.

879m pass at the Sospel departement, arriving at Breil sur Roya. Rich in history, there are barracks of the Maginot line.

Wishing to pay homage to the men of the 1st DFL who died to liberate the region (cf. Fort du Col de Brouis), the municipality of Breil sur Roya erected a monument on the Col de Brouis.

Located on a beautiful site of the Breilloise olive grove, the chapel incorporates Romanesque apses, Gothic portals and a Baroque bell tower around its three Romanesque naves with baroque decorations. The attic of the chapel is home to bats in summer, protected by the Natura 2000 programme and the Mercantour National Park. The Madonna of the Mount has a basilical plan with a central nave and two collaterals. Three apses in the cul de four extend the three naves. The structure of the main nave is supported by high walls above the arcades that separate it from the collateral. This nave is illuminated by side bays in the upper part. The collaterals, lower, are covered with "shed" frames. They are illuminated by oculus at the top of each facade. The side bell tower rebuilt in the early seventeenth century, is partly located in the south apsidiol which remains partially legible inside. A semicircular vaulted porch was built west of the central nave in the early 17th century. It was raised by the creation of a small dwelling around 1830. A masonry cistern of the same period adjoins it to the north. A semi-elliptical forecourt is located at the front of the side gate, north of the building.

Completed around 1498 after a terrible fire, this church in the County of Nice was "baroque" in the 18th century. You will be struck by the slender grandeur of its decorum of stuccoes, rocailles, gilding, and its shades of mauve and salmon.

Cosy bistro/restaurant/grocery shop in the heart of the historic village of Saorge. Traditional, carefully prepared cuisine which knows how to be creative, using as many local and/or organic ingredients as possible, with short circuit. As its name suggests, this establishment, which used to be the village bakery, is now a grocery bistro. Here you can eat simple but well-made dishes and, if necessary, buy the basic products of the regional cuisine. It is a friendly place in the centre of the village, with a small terrace and a very pleasant atmosphere.

The fortified massif of Authion is situated at 2000 meters of altitude. you will find military remains, forts, a World War II barracks...) The M5A1 tank is an original tank of the mountain infantry bataillon of the 1st Free French Division. It was immobilised by an anti-tank mine on the Authion plateau on April 10th 1945. Pushed into a ravine on August 11th because it blocked the road, it was erected as a memorial in 2005 to celebrate he 60th anniversary of the liberation of the town of Moulinet. It is now a memorial to commemorate the liberation of the city of Moulinet.

The 360 ° viewpoint offers one of the most majestic panoramas of the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park. To the south is the blue line of the Mediterranean, and sometimes the mirage of Corsica appears on the horizon. Make a U-turn on yourself and the entire chain of Mercantour opens to you!

In addition to offering a breathtaking panorama, Mount Vial also has a geodesic point. It is a point whose position on the Earth has been determined precisely by using triangulation. This method consists in measuring the angles between this point and other reference points whose position is known.

For 7 centuries, the two villages formed a single commune called "Tourette-Revest", sharing the vicissitudes of occupation and successive wars. Passing from the Eastern House to the House of Savoy; then from the Kingdom of Sardinia to definitive attachment to France in 1860; The Community will break up in 1871 to become two distinct villages: Tourette-du-Château and Revest les Roches.

From its Latin name Gyps fulvus, the Griffon Vulture is very present near Mont-Vial and its steep cliffs. You can admire this raptor with a wingspan of up to 2.65 m He uses updrafts to hover for hundreds of miles in search of food.

Summit overlooking Sospel and Breil sur Roya, it culminates at 1821 meters. Many hikes are possible. Departure of the walks from the Col de Brouis.

Built at an altitude of 834 m at the foot of Mont-Vial, Revest-Les-Roches appears as a real sentry opening on a vast panorama from the Alps Chains to the Mediterranean coast. Made up of small, tight houses, this small city marries a rugged ground where the rock is omnipresent.

Beautifully restored, the building contains paintings dating from 1647, painted for the artist vençois Jacques Vianey. The church also contains a stoup dating from the XII century and XIII th century whose carved stone represents a face.

Located along the old Savoyard salt road, the Notre-Dame des Grâces chapel is halfway between the village and the Brouis pass. As an epidemic of plague ravages Breil-sur Roya, the inhabitants go to implore the Virgin at the sanctuary of Rocaforte de Mondovi. They commit themselves, if the plague ceases, to raise a chapel on the path through which the plague has arrived. Their wish granted, they build this chapel also called Notre Dame des Neiges, and seal a plaque indicating: "Comm. communitas Brelii, tempore pestis 1631, Augt. votum feisset, quod intercessione, ss Marie Virginis, arque Rosalie et Roch, libera fuit", "The community of Breil at the time of the plague of 1631 had made a vow on August 5, because, through the intercession of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, of Saint Rosalie and Saint Roch, she was set free". Several ex-voto and a pair of crutches testify and wishes granted.

These 17th/18th century buildings, grouped together following the contours of the land under a rocky massif, in harmony with the wild nature of the upper Roya valley, are a real eye-catcher: the little perched hamlets are a must-see! The perched hamlets on the right bank of the Roya are well worth a visit: Berghe inférieur and Berghe supérieur in the commune of Fontan on the RD 42, Granile on the RD 191 from the Casterino road (RD 91). A yellow signposted hiking trail (PDIPR) links the three hamlets: Beacons 212 to 211 and then 32 between Berghe inférieur and Berghe supérieur, then beacons 33 to 219 from Berghe supérieur to Granile. Possibility of walking loops via the Gauron barns, a magnificent viewpoint: From Granile, waypoints 220, 221, to Gauron, waypoint 222, to the pas de la Tranchée waypoint 223, and the col de Tate, waypoint 214, back to lower Berghe.

Cosy bistro/restaurant/grocery shop in the heart of the historic village of Saorge. Traditional, carefully prepared cuisine which knows how to be creative, using as many local and/or organic ingredients as possible, with short circuit. As its name suggests, this establishment, which used to be the village bakery, is now a grocery bistro. Here you can eat simple but well-made dishes and, if necessary, buy the basic products of the regional cuisine. It is a friendly place in the centre of the village, with a small terrace and a very pleasant atmosphere.

Immersed in the mountain, the restaurant follows the rhythm of the seasons and adapts to the productions of the vegetable garden. Among our homemade specialities: ravioli, barbajuan, aubergines gratin, pumpkin flower fritters, lamb and suckling pig on the spit Ideal for grops and events. Transport by 4x4. Your meals with a breathtaking view of the Menton coast. Traditional and regional cuisine for all, homemade barbajuans and ravioli. For nearly 30 years, the BOVIS family has been welcoming you to Ferme St Bernard and offering meals and camping accommodation in a friendly and authentic atmosphere. La Ferme St Bernard is located on the heights of Castellar, medieval village of the Alpes Maritimes, near the GR 52 and the Col St Bernard, la Ferme offers packages for groups and events.

Located on the village square with a terrace in the sun or in the shade, this small restaurant offers tasty and generous cuisine. A traditional and local menu, daily specials, a nice selection of meats. Customers appreciate: “Good value for money / succulent pasta and meats / excellent and fast service / heated covered terrace”

The Lou'Bar wine/dining bar has expanded its walls to offer market cuisine with a southern accent. Refined dishes, an à l'ardoise menu and gourmet menus...

Organic and natural wine cellar / dining cellar: Pierre, our village sommelier, offers almost 400 references of wines, beers and ciders - Sale of local produce - Dishes on the slate - Charcuterie / cheese plancha. To take away or enjoy on site.

Fast food (suggestions, choice of formulas) > Burgers, salads, fish and chips, panini, horse steak, croque madame, snacking, wide choice of pizzas. On the terrace, in the dining room or to take away. Gourmet break: Breakfast, tea room, aperitif

In this authentic village inn, the gourmet cuisine of the chef, a disciple of Escoffier, is based on local and seasonal produce. An address for gourmets to savour. Dishes and desserts changed daily.

In a retro and family atmosphere, this bar restaurant with terrace welcomes you at the entrance of the village. A varied menu: organic vegetables from local agriculture, vegetarian dishes, wok, Mediterranean cuisine, French meat, octopus a la plancha.

Located at the entrance to the Provençal village on the banks of the Loup, this restaurant has a beautiful terrace with an outdoor kitchen and a warm indoor dining room. A daily season pass. Barbecue specialties: fish, meat and vegetables.

This restaurant welcomes you for lunch and dinner 7 days a week: all-you-can-eat mussels and paella, but also giant pizzas. The Festival de la Moule also provides group meals and a takeaway service.

Listed by Gîtes ruraux de France, near the GR 52 and the Col St Bernard, the Farm offers a natural camping area for tents and a dormitory with single beds. Catering by reservation.

Family campsite at 8 km from the sea, 15 km from Italy, 15 km from Monaco. Quiet, semi-shaded, 100m from the village. Regular bus service, ideal for hiking, pleasant setting between sea and mountains. Supermarket, bar and restaurants in the village. Nearby activities: climbing, hiking, mountain biking. Motorhome access from April to end of June and from September to October 15. No camper vans between July and August. Longeur camping-car max 6 m

On the French Riviera, 500 m from the coastal village of Castellar (altitude 380 m), three spacious guest rooms open their doors all year round. Our rooms, all air-conditioned, offer comfortable bedding and a private bathroom in a different setting for each. An independent access guarantees you the greatest tranquility. You will be delighted by the breakfasts served under the arbour on summer days in individual tables or in the common dining room in winter period. You will enjoy the swimming pool and the shade of the fig trees to fill your moments of relaxation.

Looking for a change of scenery? Try a complete change of scenery just 1h30 from Nice. The Roncharel gîte welcomes you to the heart of nature in the Verdon and Vaïre valleys, to discover another South. Panoramic views, absolute peace and quiet! Single rooms and group accommodation. Provencal cuisine based on local produce.

Mountain refuge located at the source of the Bléone river, at an altitude of 2,050 m in the village of Prads-Haute-Bléone. Accessible only on foot (3h walk). Numerous hikes available, including the Tête de l'Estrop at 2961m of altitude, as well as sport fishing, bouldering and slacklining. Accommodation and catering available by prior arrangement. Catering only at lunchtime. No reservations in July and August.

Spacious and quiet rooms overlooking a provençal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and an eco-bel. spacious and quiet rooms overlooking a provencal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and environmental practices rewarded rewarded by an eco-bel.

25 km from Digne les Bains, in the heart of the UNESCO Haute-Provence Geopark, the Mandala campsite receives you in a preserved natural setting. Small campsite with 31 pitches, by the river, quiet and natural. Rental of 5 Mongolian Yurts, 4 Eco-Chalets and 21 quiet and shady pitches. Accessible to disabled people. Reception of groups and traineeships. Communal kitchen for the yurts, total of 2 barbecues for all. Yoga sessions in the Mandala Yurt and daily activities in July and August: guided hikes, night walks, donkey rides. Bikes rental for customers. Working donkeys for rent all year round. Swimming is possible. Car-free campsite, 2 car parks are available at the entrance and near the pitches. Trolleys are available at the reception point to transport your luggage. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor activities enthusiasts such as hiking, Via Ferrata, MTB, climbing, canyoning or hang-gliding... or simply for people who want to relax in fresh air. The campsite is open with all necessary sanitary measures.

Gîte La Cigale Jaune in the heart of Provence, ideally located between sea and mountains, near Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez, in the Pays de Fayence. Sleeps 4 people.

Located in a beautiful property, Chantal and Daniel offer you 4 houses in the south: the red cicada : 2 to 4 pers- the cicada blue and the yellow: 2 to 6 pers and welcome you with pleasure in their little Provence, located in the Pays de Fayence

Municipal service area for camping cars 2 pitches, quiet, close to shops Bottom of the village Near tennis courts and swimming pool