The French Riviera offers wonderful walking, fascinating art, architecture and history. Take time to visit the new Matisse museum in Nice, one of many excellent galleries. Much remains from the famous Belle Époque period, when wealthy Russian princes and English earls built palatial villas. History reaches back even further, with Roman monuments, bridges, and ancient roads. In many towns and villages, the narrow twisting streets and colourful buildings of the old quarters transport you back to the Middle Ages. For those interested in more recent wonders, the shopping is fabulous. Find haute couture fashions, interior decorations, unique perfumes and delicious candied fruits.
Location
Menton
Menton, France
Starting Location
Monaco
Monaco-Ville, Monaco
Day 3-4
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Villefranche-sur-Mer, France
Day 5
Nice
Nice, France
End Location
What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?
INCLUDED IN REGULAR TRIP
Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guide(s)
Support vehicle
6 nights lodging
All breakfasts, 2 lunches, and all dinners but 1
Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums
Detailed map and route instructions
All baggage transportation
All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off
Particulars
EVENT DATES
2023
Private, custom and self-guided trips also available. Contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247 for details.
TRIP SIZE
4-12 participants
TOTAL DAYS
7 days / 6 nights
ARRIVE / DEPART
Menton / Nice
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Hiking distances daily: 2.5 to 4 hours.
TERRAIN
Some of the walks climb up into the hills above the coast, while others are easy walks on level terrain.
COST
Land Cost:
US $2,950
Includes 6B/2L/5D
Single Supplement:
US $750
Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247
Getting there
The tour starts in Menton, approximately 15 km east of Nice, which is the main point of access for the area. There are flights to Nice from many European gateway cities, including Paris, London, Amsterdam and Geneva. Menton can also be reached by train from major cities.
1
Day 1
Menton
Arrive in Menton. Stroll along the narrow streets and winding alleys of the old town. You won’t be able to resist the colourful shops offering tablecloths and napkins made of bright Provençal fabrics. Wander along the beach and the old port. Relax at a café and watch the world go by.
2
Day 2
Menton
Start with a bus ride to Castellar, from where you walk into wonderful, quiet country and to Ste-Agnès, the highest coastal village in Europe. Climb through the cobbled streets of the village to the remains of an 11th-century castle high above the sea. Visit the museum dedicated to the Maginot Line and explore the fortifications that were part of this Alpine defense line. Then descend back to the bustle of the Menton.
Hiking time: 2.5 hours, with additional 1.5 hours possible.
3
Day 3
Monaco
Today follow one of the most stunning coastal walks along the Riviera. Walk around Cap Martin, past opulent villas and exclusive hotels, pause among pine trees to watch the turquoise surf wash among the white rocks. Your destination is the glamorous principality of Monaco, with its chic shops, museums, and lovely beach.
Hiking time: up to 4 hours.
4
Day 4
Monaco
Enjoy a delightful walk high in the hills above the coast. Take the bus to La Turbie, a wonderful perched town with a spectacular view of the coast. La Turbie is the site of the Alpine Trophy, erected in 6 BC to commemorate the important victories in the Roman conquest of the Alps and one of the only two remaining trophies still standing. Take time to follow the nature trail and learn about the local flora before returning to Monaco.
Hiking time: 2.25 hours.
5
Day 5
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Wind your way up to the magnificent perched village of Èze, following in the steps of the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who found the climb highly inspiring. Explore the beautifully restored winding streets of the village, the many craft workshops, and the famous exotic garden. Take another look at the breathtaking view, then head for Beaulieu and set off on your walk around Cap Ferrat passing some of the most sumptuous villas on the Riviera, including one of the best known, the Rothschild Villa. Your destination is the charming resort of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Hiking times: 3 hours for the Eze walk; 4 hours around Cap Ferrat.
6
Day 6
Nice
Explore Nice today. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and take some time to sit and contemplate the azure sea. Browse in the shops along the Rue Massina, then head for the port, lined by squares and quays lined by lovely ochre-coloured buildings built in the 19th century. Be sure to visit Old Nice, which many art historians consider one of the most beautiful old quarters in France. You can also climb to Cimiez and the new Matisse Museum.
7
Day 7
Departure Day
Enjoy a last morning on the French Riviera before departing for your next adventure.
Hôtel des Ambassadeurs, Menton
Behind the elegant pink façade of this 19th century is a comfortable and friendly hotel. Decorated with antique furniture and paintings, there is a lovely terrace looking onto a garden with palm trees and hibiscus.
Hôtel Ambassador, Monaco
Conveniently situated in La Condamine district, the hotel is walking distance from the main tourist attractions including Casino Square and the beautiful Place d’Arms. Malizia, the renowned hotel restaurant offers Italian specialties in a Liberty style setting.
Hôtel La Flore, Villefranche-sur-Mer
Five minutes from the beach, this character hotel from the early 20th Century was rebuilt in original Provençal style. All of La Flore’s guest rooms have either balconies or terraces overlooking the stunning natural harbour of Villefranche. Enjoy the beach or relax by the hotel’s own outdoor swimming pool.
Trip Reviews
The location was absolutely gorgeous. The food was exceptional. My husband liked the hiking and seeing the sites visitors don’t usually see.
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