This article is sponsored by Nice Côte d’Azur Tourism and Congres.
What if Nice Côte d’Azur was more than just beaches and sunshine? What if it was possible, in just one hour’s drive, to go from the sea to the peaks of the Southern Alps? Welcome to Nice Côte d’Azur, a destination between the sea and the mountains where a multitude of experiences await you.
Feast your eyes on the Mercantour trails
A host of hiking trails wind their way through the mountains of the Nice Côte d’Azur, offering walks for all abilities in the heart of a wild and unspoilt natural environment. In the Vésubie valley, the rocky landscapes of Nègre lake and the majestic Trécolpas lake will amaze you. In the Gordolasque valley, torrents and waterfalls criss-cross the forest and keep you company throughout your hike.
In the Tinée valley, the Vens lakes itinerary is worth exploring, with its viewpoint overlooking the lakes. Opt for a night in a refuge for an even more immersive experience under the stars in the silence of the Southern Alps. Between Tinée and Vésubie, a stopover at the Millefonts lakes is a must. There are 3 lakes to discover, depending on your level of hiking: Lac Petit, Lac Long and Lac Gros. The bravest hikers will climb to Mont Pépoiri for a 360° view of the Mercantour peaks and the lakes below.
Visit the farms of the Nice highlands
In the heart of the Mercantour, farms and cowherds open their doors to visitors in search of authenticity and local flavours. Away from the hustle and bustle, these encounters are a chance to discover the daily lives of shepherds and breeders, who perpetuate age-old skills in a protected natural setting. At La Colmiane and in the Tinée valley, a few cow farms offer immersive tours: milking cows, making cheese and tasting local produce. These activities will delight young and old alike, while highlighting the rich pastoral heritage of the Nice Côte d’Azur mountains.
Ride your way through nature
Climb legendary cols like the Col de la Bonette – the highest paved road in Europe – or the iconic Col de Turini, a true challenge for road bike enthusiasts. For MTB riders, adventure awaits at the summit of Pic de la Colmiane or the stunning Gialorgues Waterfall, nestled in pristine nature. The bike parks of Auron, Isola 2000, La Colmiane, and Roubion offer thrilling downhill tracks for those seeking adrenaline. And for a truly unique experience, tackle the Auron–Nice route, accessible by e-bike, and discover the beauty of the whole territory. In Nice Côte d’Azur, cycling is an adventure in the open air, combining performance, freedom, and breathtaking landscapes.
Fill up on thrills
For thrill-seekers, the mountains of Nice Côte d’Azur are a veritable adventure playground. At Lantosque, the via ferrata plunges you into a spectacular setting of cliffs and footbridges suspended above the Vésubie torrent. At La Colmiane, the adrenaline rush goes up a notch with the longest zip line in France: a 2.6km flight at over 120km/h, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks.
The station also offers a summer sledge, a fun and fast descent on rails, accessible to all the family. For those who want even more, a second via ferrata at La Colmiane offers safe climbing on the rock faces of the spectacular Baus de la Frema. Finally, why not get even higher with a first flight in a paraglider? Take off in tandem and let the winds carry you for an unforgettable experience over the Côte d’Azur mountains.
Spend a night in the trees
Just two kilometres from the picturesque village of Belvédère, you can enjoy a unique, timeless experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. At Les Écrins de Belvédère you can spend the night in a tree house.
This unique stay is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest. Further north in the Vésubie valley, at Le Boréon, the Cabane des Pins Sylvestres also awaits you for a moment of escape and serenity. Take advantage of the spa in the heart of the forest and the terrace high up to watch the stars.
