Ormea Trail Crt Cote D Azur France Isabellefabre RediThe immaculate beaches of the Riviera are obviously among the must-sees and must-dos on a getaway to Menton. But if you let your footsteps guide you along the hiking trails, you’d undoubtedly be surprised by the splendour of the Côte d’Azur scenery. From Castellar to Saint-Agnès, immerse yourself in the Menton hinterland.
The key to this hike near Menton: the ruins of old Castellar and the panoramic view they reveal. By then, the sparkling sun may have taken its toll on your water supply.
With your rucksack nice and light, take advantage of the climb up the Col Saint-Bernard to fill your water bottle at the spring. Need to recharge your batteries? Stop for a moment at the Col de Berceau to enjoy your snack with a bird’s eye view of the sea and the city of lemons.
Be aware that this tour can be completed in several stages, thanks to the GR51. As the path has little shade, this tour is not recommended in summer. However, it is the perfect hike for warming up in the sunshine in the autumn!
As you climb, you’ll discover an unobstructed view of the lower Bevera valley, with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop.
At Grammondo peak, 1,379 metres above sea level, a sensational view of the Sospel basin awaits you. Look off into the distance, and the peaks of the Mercantour will be staring back at you!
Your guide back? The “Menton par Balmette et le Bousset” signpost. This invites you to inhale the scent of the flowers in Menton cemetery before leading you to the seafront. And if the sun shines a little too brightly, the town’s narrow streets are the perfect refuge. The word of a Menton resident!
Roquebrune reveals its innermost secrets as you climb its staircases. On this hiking trail, the warmth of old stone mingles with the freshness of the pine forest.
Your eyes will widen even more at the panoramic view of Cap Martin, Monaco, Menton, and the sea glistening below.
Just a stone’s throw from the château, indulge in a moment of idleness in the shade of the thousand-year-old olive tree, the oldest tree you’ll be given to contemplate in France.
Challenge your fellow walkers to find its age before heading back to the seaside via Buse beach.
Perched 800 metres above sea level, the medieval town of Sainte-Agnès is one of those Côte d’Azur wonders that invites contemplation. Take a few minutes to marvel at the sea at eye level and Menton below. The highest coastal village in Europe, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France: Sainte-Agnès is a winner! It’s also the starting point for your ascent to the summit of Baudon. On one side, the Mediterranean, on the other the Alpine arches. A landscape that rivals the most beautiful postcards! After a few shots, make your way nimbly back down to the cobbled streets.
From Monti to Castillon-Village, a wild route takes you up to Mont Mulacié. And the least we can say is that this hike displays rare flavours and reveals a concentrate of pure Côte d’Azur. As you approach the Col de Castillon, your gaze wanders over the Bévéra valley.
While Mont Mulacié is a timeless experience for seasoned hikers, it’s time for novices. Off the beaten track, the second highest summit in the Mentonnais region is rarely climbed and requires a touch of agility. Just imagine, the feeling of freedom is even more intense than that of a paragliding flight. So enjoy the silence…
– Hike duration: 7h35
– Height gain: + 1100
– Level: Very difficult. Be very careful on the descent.
DCIM100MEDIADJI_0343.JPG
Starting in Menton, the pedal strokes take you all the way to Italy. The route, tinged with a subtle lilting accent, unfurls 30km of Alpine scenery. With your hands on the handlebars of your mountain bike, you climb confidently towards Mount Grammondo, while the diversions to Chiesa Cimone adds a touch of technicality to your route.
Advice to the seasoned riders!
