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©CÔTE D'AZUR FRANCE / GEORGES VERAN

The 7 good reasons to visit the Vesubie and Valdeblore Valleys this summer

An hour away from Nice, the Vesubie and Valdeblore Valleys offer a collection of sporty, fun, contemplative or relaxing experiences in the heart of the Mercantour. Everything you need to top up on sensation! Here are 7 good reasons for lovers of Slow Life holidays to spend the summer in the mountains!

1. Treat yourself to a relaxing moment at the Berthemont-les-Bains thermal spa

In the Côte d’Azur highlands, the pretty hamlet of Berthemont-les-Bains offers a preferential setting in the heart of the countryside in which to recharge your batteries.

Renowned for its sulphurated waters, Berthemont was already famous in the Roman era.

The only spa resort in the Alpes-Maritimes, this historic site now reflects the gentle way of life on the Côte d’Azur.

A perfect destination for nature lovers, this enchanted break will allow you to relax in water that is naturally heated to 29 degrees, springing from the crystalline rocks of the Mercantour.

A spa swimming pool, hammam, sauna, panoramic terrace with Jacuzzi and an outdoor solarium…

The benefits of the thermal waters await you in every form for a pure moment of well-being!

2. Top up on fun activities in Saint-Martin-Vésubie

Nicknamed the little Switzerland of Nice due to its cool climate and beautiful natural landscapes, Saint-Martin-Vésubie is a little corner of paradise in the heart of the upper Vesubie valley.

This picturesque village that retains the traces of its medieval origins invites you to discover the charm of the Nice highlands through its exceptional natural sites and its cultural and architectural heritage. This green jewel is also chock full of fun mountain activities to enjoy with friends or family.

Starting with the Vesùbia Mountain Park. Unique in Europe, this sports complex is the ideal spot if you’re looking for indoor activities.

Whether this means outdoing yourself on the climbing wall, adventuring in the canyoning area, enjoying yourself in the swimming pool or basking in the sauna or hammam, the Vesùbia Mountain Park promises a real adventure!

3. Get away to the Pure Montagne Resort & Spa

The getaway continues not far from there, at the Pure Montagne Resort & Spa.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in the mountains, this protected and intimate location offers an exceptional backdrop. The refined layout of the suites is a true ode to serenity.

As to the vast terraces, these offer a view over the wide-open landscape of the Vesubie Valley. Wine and foot pairings also take you on a more gourmet culinary journey at the Air du Temps restaurant.

After a wonderful day in the great outdoors, the cocooning atmosphere is at its peak when you enter the Nordic space, where the spa, sauna and hammam await you. One of the most relaxing sensory experiences that encourages you to unwind in this authentic setting.

4. Set out to discover the wolves at Parc Alpha

Watching the wolves at Parc Alpha means immersing yourself in the heart of the unusual flora and fauna offered by the Mercantour.

This park, which has undergone a transformation this year, was created to let you to discover a fascinating animal in the most beautiful of environments. Chamois and ibex also put in an appearance, and the animals at the small educational farm are making their grand comeback this summer. The new sheepdog show allows you to learn more about these guardians of the flock.

The pastoral setting of the fully renovated forge cowshed, and the games trails allow you to extend this relaxing family day. To get even closer to the pack, the VIP experience allows you to enjoy a rare encounter with this mythical animal and talk to the keepers who will tell you about the wonderful history between wolf and man.

5. Sleep in unusual locations in the Boréon

If you’re looking for accommodation near Parc Alpha, opt for a night in one of the four holiday cottages located in the heart of the countryside. If you’re looking for an unusual experience, you’ll need to climb up to one of the cabins perched 5 metres up amid the Scots pines!

With your head in the clouds, you can contemplate the view over the forest and the stars from the spa located on the hilltop terrace.

Opposite Boréon Lake, La Miellerie holiday cottage promises you an adventure in the mountains in a chalet full of character, whereas the Ô à la bouche restaurant will win you over with its comforting dishes and its view over the summits of the Mercantour.

You mustn’t miss a trip to the climbing tower, a structure unique in the Department that will allow you to try out the joys of this sport, accompanied by a mountain guide!

6. Enjoy the thrill at La Colmiane

If you dream of flying, head for La Colmiane for a big thrill! The longest zipline in France will have you cross the exceptional landscapes of the Vésubie and Valdeblore Valleys at over 120 kph. This dizzying flight over the summits and the most beautiful lakes in the region can be experienced alone or in pairs, especially with your children if you want to share this breathtaking moment!

Young and old alike will adore trying the summer toboggan run at La Colmiane. Thrills and peels of laughter are guaranteed with its 22 corners! In the shade of the larch trees, the 18-hole minigolf is perfect for a more peaceful family moment, as its the Bolline swimming pool in which you can cool off this summer!

As for the more athletic, they will no doubt prefer the Via Ferrata. A cross between climbing and hiking, the experience is Alpine, wild and above all aerial! In the heart of the Vésubie gorges, the Via Ferrata in the Lantosque canyons is also making a grand comeback this summer. You’re bound to love it!

7. Discover the extremely beautiful landscapes during a hike

Le Boréon is the starting point for several hikes in the Mercantour Park. Such as the Adus circuit, an easy hike leading to a magnificent lake. In the heart of a forest, this loop is much appreciated in summer, as you can bathe in the lake! It’s low change in levels makes it accessible to the entire family. As for the Trécolpas circuit, its forest path dotted by superb views over the border peaks of the upper Boréon make it one of the prettiest hikes to take in the Mercantour.

The string of little valleys with the peaceful Trécolpas lake as a grand finale is a must-take path to the Madone de Fenestre sanctuary.

Lastly, the Prals Lake circuit allows for penetrating the heart of the Mercantour, starting from the Madone de Fenestre. In the height of summer, the walk up to the Prals valley is an extremely beautiful route that will have you cross flower-filled Alpine meadows and wild mountain streams. These striking contrasts will make you appreciate the richness of your hike, discovering a wonderful panoramic view over the upper Vesubie as you go.

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