Hiking in Nice and the surrounding area

Peaks on the horizon and the Mediterranean in the background… By its very nature, Nice is an invitation to adventure. So if pissaladière and the Promenade des Anglais hold no secrets for you, trade in your moccasins for trainers. Our signposting and topographical guides will lead you along the most beautiful hiking trails in Nice and the surrounding area.

Different landscapes to suit all tastes

Whether you prefer to lose yourself in nature or stay close to the city, a hike in Nice promises a moment of disconnection. Between the sea and the mountains, where the brilliant green of the cypress trees rubs shoulders with the reflections of the Mediterranean, there are few who won’t find something to suit them.

From headland to limestone cliff, from hackberry to yucca, a multitude of sensations overwhelm hikers step by step. The exceptional viewpoints that punctuate each route rival even the most beautiful instagrammable spots in the historic centre!

So, depending on your mood for the day, your personality or the group you’re leading, choose between hills and coastline, sun-drenched or shady paths. Waterfalls, relics or olive groves – that’s what the people of Nice call the king’s choice.

Mountain biking around Nice

806 metres. That’s the height of Mont Macaron, whose ridge overlooks the hills of Nice. A huge playground where technical trails and hairpins follow one another along a challenging mountain bike route.

Technical singles can also be found at l’Escarène. This massif, just a stone’s throw from Nice, offers a demanding mountain bike circuit. A nice difference in altitude, grey rock to hold on to and breathtaking views: enough to delight experienced cyclists.

More into cycling and fresh air? Head for the Promenade des Anglais. Here, you can leave the challenge at home and enjoy a family outing lulled by the lapping of the water. All the way to the port of Marina Baie des Anges, 15 km of sparkling blue water awaits you: the perfect backdrop for a ride in Nice.

Stroll along the Nice coastline

Setting off on the Tour du Cap de Nice means climbing a number of staircases carved out of the rock, enjoying superb views of the coastline and discovering tiny bays below. An original way to discover Nice and the surrounding area!

Far from strolling through the heart of the Côte d’Azur’s capital, it’s the craggy countryside that sets the pace for your hike in Nice. If you’re a fan of beautiful buildings, don’t worry! The properties of Villefranche are sure to satisfy your craving for beautiful stonework. This walking trail is an excellent way to combine urban, forest and seaside pleasures.

And if you’re one of those people who swear by the seaside, there’s a good chance you’ll succumb to the idyllic charm of the coastal path. There’s blue as far as the eye can see, colourful villas and intimate coves.

Hiking trails for all levels

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s something for everyone around Nissa la Bella.

For the former, enclosed gorges and steep paths offer a thousand and one ways to experience intense activities and sensations.

Meanwhile, less adventurous souls will be tempted by a gentle stroll along a footpath starting from the port of Beaulieu: a hike near Nice called La Petite Afrique. Here, experienced walkers will linger over the orange and bougainvillea trees that line the cliffs, while some will take to the panoramic path before crossing the pine forest.

2 hours of pure Côte d’Azur!

Our top 3 walks in and around Nice

From the hinterland of Nice to the Mediterranean, there’s more than one trail to explore. A concentrate of Provence, where you can succumb to the song of the cicadas, a path lined with maritime pines… Nature is omnipresent, making you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. And here are our 3 favourite hiking trails near Nice:

1. The Tour du Vinaigrier

The route starts in the Saint-Roch district and takes you to Mont Vinaigrier. From the olive grove overlooking the cliffs, to the summit opening onto the Rade de Villefranche and the Baie des Anges, you’ll be at a loss for words to describe this breathtaking panorama of the Côte d’Azur.

Duration: 2hrs 25mins
Distance: 5.23 km
Difficulty: Medium

2. Gairaut hill

Escorted by olive trees, you will make your way along the Colline de Gairaut, populated by sublime villas. Among the treasures to be unearthed along the way, the breathtaking view over Nice is undoubtedly one of the most precious. Breathe in and out!

Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes
Distance: 5.14 km
Difficulty: Easy

3. Mont Boron

Leaving from Nice, the tour of Mont Boron promises a wild ride, constantly flirting with the jagged coastline and forested landscapes. Cosy villas, Aleppo pines and carob trees provide the backdrop, while time seems to stand still. Keep an eye out for a secret cove inviting you to laze around.