Follow up a trip around this wonderful village with La Brigue’s crown jewel: the little Sistine Chapel of Alpes Maritimes! A feast for the eyes in the great outdoors!
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1 day 1 village
A day in La Brigue
Delve deep into La Brigue
Dive into medieval history
Three incredible buildings rise from the collegiate church forecourt. Gaze up to the sky and drink in the belltower’s clock. When you see its staggering entrance, you won’t be able to resist the temptation of a visit. Stroll the lanes lined with colourful houses and mysterious lintels towards the château. Medieval history is written into its very stones. Some unusual beehives await nearby: the “Ca’ d’arbine”. Time seems to stand still beneath the Place Vieille’s arcades where fresh air blows all day long. The collections at the heritage museum by the river whip up a sense of nostalgia for bygone times.
THE LEGEND OF PONT DU COQ
Legend has it that the devil himself built this unique bridge. A stonemason made a deal that the devil would build the bridge for him as long as it was finished by daybreak…
The stonemason’s mother wanted to save him so had the cockerel (coq) sing by candlelight. The devil lost his bet and fled.
Tips
for a great trip:
- Download the map below so you don’t miss a thing in the village!
- If you’re driving, you can park for free on any of the village car parks. The streets are all pedestrianised.
- History buffs: join a guided tour of the village (2 hrs) every Thursday from 2-4pm in summer
- The Jardin des Comtes Lascaris park is a welcome family-friendly break in the shade to cool off on the benches or have fun in the play area.
- Is it time to tickle those tastebuds? Book a table at one of our restaurants.
- Visit the Sunday morning market (9am-1pm) to meet our producers and soak up the local flavours (Place de Nice car park).
Keep going to the
little Sistine Chapel
A trip to the little Sistine Chapel is a must during your day trip in La Brigue. Your senses come alive as you soak up the peace and quiet and woodland nature on your way. The site’s energy melts into the bubbling fountains and the spellbinding divine atmosphere slowly takes hold of you. The heavenly sight of its timeless paintings grab your attention and their symbolism and beauty spark your curiosity. On your way back, soak up all the wonders the countryside has to offer: an old mill here, a lime kiln there, all set against fabulous views of the orchards. Food lovers can linger a little longer for a tasting session…
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WATER WITH A WILL OF ITS OWN…
Natural springs flow at the foot of the chapel. What stands out about them is that they flow at different rates over the course of the day. Sometimes they even stop for a few seconds…
Tips
to visit Notre-Dame des Fontaines
- A special shuttle bus (8 seats) runs from La Brigue train station to Notre-Dame des Fontaines from July 7th. Daily service. Please book the day before at Tourist Information. Find out more: https://www.zestbus.fr
- You can drive (free car park with a dozen spaces), cycle or walk the visitor trail to the chapel.
- The site is open from May 1st to September 30th (closed Thursday) and available to book the rest of the year.
- The 4€ admission fee (or 6€ for the guided tour) helps fund the chapel’s maintenance. Guided tours available to book (1.5 hr).
Explore the surroundings on foot
Our hikes for all abilities
La Brigue Village Vincent JacquesDay trip along Col de Boseglia
Set off from Boseglia bridge up the rocky path and gaze at unobstructed views of La Brigue nestled at the foot of the mountains. The top of the mountain pass is like a natural border as the way back down leads to Tende with panoramic views of the area.
Tende Baroque Collégiale Pango Visual1Tende Baroque Collégiale Pango Visual1|
FROM LA BRIGUE TO TENDE
You can explore Tende and its history along the Col de Boseglia. You can go back the same way to La Brigue or take the Col de Loubaïra mountain pass. NB: You can take the bus or train back too.
Tips
to hike with peace of mind:
- Make sure you have enough water as there are no water fountains on the paths.
- There’s often a surprise shower in the early afternoon in summer so pack a mac and your sun cream.
- Binoculars and a compass always come in handy.
- Pick up an IGN map so you can ramble with peace of mind.
- Please note: some mountain areas don’t have good network coverage.
Check out our bike trails
Family-friendly, electric, cross-country
Vallee Pango Visual1La Brigue – Balcon de Marta round trip
Ride through aromatic thyme and lavender with Monte Saccarello to the east and Balcon de Marta to the south. What a day. Soak up the sea views when the sky is clear. Take your pick from a chill-out on the grass, exploring an underground fortified complex or tasting traditional cheese at Lanteri farm.
Haute Route Du Sel Route Thematique Cuneo AlpsHaute Route Du Sel Route Thematique Cuneo Alps|
HIGH SALT ROAD
This legendary road takes its name from the salt that was transported along it on mules in Roman times. The trail is a favourite among nature lovers nowadays. It’s jam-packed with fabulous views whether you’re walking, cycling, riding a horse or driving a 4×4 or quad.
Tips
for your bike rides:
- It’s best to bring your own bike as there are no bike hire shops in La Brigue.
- Keep your repair kit to hand as it can be hard to find what you need to fix a tyre!
- Got an e-bike? You can charge up your e-bike and electric cars on Place de Nice.
- Make sure you have enough water as there are no water fountains on the paths.
- There’s often a surprise shower in the early afternoon in summer so pack a mac and your sun cream.
For an amazing day out...
Our top tips
Come to visit us
- Take the train from Nice, it’s the best way to soak up the unique views from the Train of Wonders. Board at Nice-Ville station (or Sospel) and stop at La Brigue (approx. 2 hr 20).
- If you decide to drive from Menton, you can go through Sospel via the Col de Brouis to reach Breil-sur-Roya and then on to Tende. Further information about: Access to the Roya Valley.
- Take the A8 and D6204 from Nice (around 1 hr 45 drive).
Good to know
- Before you go: make sure you have enough cash as there are no cash machines in La Brigue.
- Check opening times before you head out.
- NB: there are no lifeguards or safety measures at the river so take care when swimming.
- Fancy a picnic packed with local flavours? Head to the market to peruse our producers’ stalls or visit Cédric who’ll make your sandwiches at his deli (avenue Charles de Gaulle)… say hi from us 🙂
- You can drink the water from all the village fountains, unless otherwise indicated.
- Get expert advice from Cyril and Valentina at Tourist Information: labrigue-tourisme@menton-riviera-merveilles.fr or +33 4 83 93 95 50.
