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From the Alps to the Riviera
Nights: 4 Starting point: Auberge Provençale (2*), Sospel. This comfortable auberge is dramatically located on the hillside above Sospel, with stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The hotelier, M. Giannini, is a particularly welcoming host. This is a really peaceful, relaxing spot where in warm weather you can enjoy dinner on the beautiful terrace with its panoramic views.
Accommodation: Auberge Provençale, as above. Day 2: the day starts with a transfer to the start of the walk, the Baisse du Scuvion, just under Mount Razet. Before setting off, take time to admire the breathtaking views - to the north is Piène Haute, to the south is Monaco and in good weather you can also look along the gorges towards La Brigue. From the viewpoint, you descend to the Razet Pass, from where a mule track leads down through a magical valley filled with flowers and oak trees to the panoramic chapel of St Bernard, an excellent picnic spot. You continue the long descent, which is steep at times, passing the hanging village of Castellar as you approach Menton. (15km, 5.5hrs)
Day 3: your last day is free to explore Menton. A charming Riviera town set against a backdrop of mountains, Menton boasts several museums and art galleries, as well as some pleasant parks and gardens. Stroll across the border to visit the fascinating botanical gardens in Mortola, a 40-minute walk, or take the short train ride (pay locally) to glamorous Monte Carlo. Alternatively, make the most of the famously sunny climate and simply laze on the beach. Accommodation: Hotel Paris-Rôme, as above. Prices & travel 2008
*Price includes: 4 nights' bed & breakfast, 2 dinners, plus 1 picnic; return rail & taxi from Nice city centre (out/home 0h40) > Any queries? Let us call you back  |
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The
warm light of the Mediterranean illuminates the varied landscape of this
lovely corner of France, close to the Italian border, and its hilltop
villages, fine forests and spectacular gorges. The mountains of the Mercantour
National Park make a magnificent backdrop as you walk down to the irresistible
Côte d'Azur.
Day 1: our suggested circular walk reveals a variety of scenery. From Sospel, you rise along a botanical path through a peaceful valley to the Italian border, from where you continue through olive groves to Piène Haute, a picturesque hamlet in which you will hear French and Italian spoken in equal amounts. Your route then leads over the panoramic Paula Pass into the Bassera Valley and returns to Sospel via the Perus Pass. (17.5km, 6hrs) 
Accommodation: Hotel Paris-Rôme (3*), Menton. Attractive
and with comfortable bedrooms, the Paris-Rôme faces the sea from
its location just 500 metres from the Italian border. The courtyard, with
its wicker chairs and tables, is the perfect place to unwind with a drink
in the evening. Choose to dine at the hotel's own excellent restaurant or take your pick of those in the centre of town, a 15-minute stroll away (pay locally in both cases).