Walking the French Riviera

Typical holiday itinerary

Walking information

This trip is graded activity level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). {BREAK}Although the pace of the walks is leisurely and there is plenty of time to rest and enjoy the views, we place this itinerary at the tougher end of the leisurely/moderate scale due to several of the walks heading to or descending from hilltop villages. You should expect some ascent and descent and read the daily itinerary carefully. The terrain and type of path/track will vary from manmade paved tracks (which are occasionally rocky) to tarmac. All walks take between 4 and 6 hours including lunch stops and require a moderate level of fitness. Public transport can be subject to delays and seasonal timetables, so some waiting at bus stops should be expected.{BREAK}All walks are optional and there is plenty to do in and around Menton should you wish to take extra days out of the walking itinerary. On some days walks may be shortened if you wish to take public transport (again this is dependent on the time of year), however please be aware this may be at your own expense and the leader will continue with the group (they will happily advise and ensure you know which bus or train you need to take).{BREAK}You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference: {URL}://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Training_Guide.pdf{BREAK}All{URL}s://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Training_Guide.pdf{NOURL} ... ascents, descents and distances listed below have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders. Please note that different GPS measuring devices can give differing results dependent on the barometric pressures at the time. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will{NOURL} encounter.

Day 1: Start Menton

Our start point is a comfortable 3-star hotel in Menton. Situated just a short stroll from the train station, beach and shops, it is ideally located for a week of centre-based walking. In the evening our guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answer any questions.

Day 2: Walk to the Cap Martin Peninsula, passing through the pretty cliff-side village of Roquebrune Cap Martin

Today we discover the region. Starting from the hotel we walk around the beautiful Cap Martin Peninsula, passing through the cliff-side village of Roquebrune Cap Martin. Located between Menton and Monaco it enjoys spectacular views the Mediterranean sea. An old village dominated by a charming 10th century fort, it's narrow, stepped streets, deep vaulted passages are perfect to explore on foot. Walk: Distance 12 km Ascent 350 m Descent 350 m Time: 4 to 5 hours

Day 3: Head by bus inland to Sospel; walk to the border of the Mercantour N.P; return to Menton by bus

We begin our day by bus, taking a 45 minute journey to Sospel. With the feel of a mountain town it is a peaceful village located very near to the Italian border and was once an important staging post on the royal road from Nice to Turin. Its cobbled streets, gothic houses and baroque cathedral make a picturesque starting point from which to begin our walk. From here we enjoy a walk at the border of the Mercantour National Park before heading back to our hotel by bus where we can enjoy an aperitif on the sun terrace or perhaps a stroll along the coastal path before dinner. Walk: Distance 9 km Ascent 460 m Descent 460 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 4: Monaco - Eze

Today we take a train or bus to La Turbie via Monaco. From here we have impressive views down over the famous principality and begin our walk on to the village of Eze. A pretty little 14th century village, Eze is famous for its production of clove and orange fruit. Built on a hill, it offers magnificent views of the coast. Walk: Distance 9 km Ascent 470 m Descent 775 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 5: Free Day

On your free day you could choose to explore Menton old town. During the 19th century, the British and Russian aristocracy met here in fabulous palaces and villas. The architecture is stunning with the unique baroque style of the Saint-Michel and Conception squares as well as the Saint-Michel Basilica façade. Alternatively you could visit one or more of the 8 gardens of Menton or head further afield to Nice by train or bus and visit its renowned market as well as the 'Promenade des Anglais'. Monaco also has much to offer, particularly its exotic garden which is hanging over the 'Rocher' giving a beautiful view over the city and the sea.

Day 6: Visit Sainte Agnes to explore; walk towards Col de Bausson; back to Menton.

High above Menton town, the village of Sainte Agnès hides picturesque streets and artists studios. It is perched at 800m of altitude and is registered as 'one of the most beautiful French villages'. It offers breathtaking views over the blue Mediterranean sea as well as a gate to numerous great walks. We will  walk towards Col de Bausson and then walk back to the village where we enjoy a well deserve break at the St Yves Auberge and have the opportunity to try their excellent tarts. Those with the energy can walk all the way back to Menton whilst those looking for a more gentle day can hop on the public bus. Walk: Distance 6 km Ascent 210 m Descent 818 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 7: A short train ride to St Jean Cap Ferrat; follow coastal trails along limestone cliffs

For our last walk of the week we will enjoy another coastal walk around Saint Jean Cap Ferrat. After a transfer by train, we will walk along one of the most beautiful Cap of the French Riviera. Along the route we will see beautifully tended gardens flourishing with a mix or flora and fauna as our track follows limestone cliffs and near along the shoreline. To finish the afternoon, we will have time to visit Villefranche sur Mer with its citadel of the XVI century and the Saint Pierre Chapel decorated by the famous French writer/cineaste Jean Cocteau. Walk: Distance 11 km Ascent 50 m Descent 50 m Time: 4 to 5 hours

Day 8: End Menton

After a relaxed breakfast we say our goodbyes.