Roselyne“What a surprise to discover artists’ studios in this hilltop village! I love to stop there on my way to Sospel and enjoy a delicious homemade lemonade!”
Roselyne
Castillon
RoselyneCastillon
A village with 3 lives
“Castillionum” has had an eventful history. Originally built in the 12th century on the Col de Castillon, it had the misfortune to be destroyed in 1887 by a terrible earthquake.
The new village was rebuilt below and destroyed again in 1944 by World War II bombings. Today, the ruins of the old church and the old Place Saint Julien remain, as well as the community oven, the lavoir (wash-house) and calvary.
It is partly thanks to American funding that Castillon was rebuilt on its present site in 1951. Castillon-le-neuf then regained the charm of a Provence village, with its green-shuttered stone houses built half-way up the hillside.
Must-see Attractions
of Castillon
Castillon Viaduc Du Caramel Drone De RegardThe Caramel Viaduct
Before reaching the village, you will inevitably pass by the impressive and picturesque Caramel Viaduct, a silent reminder of the old tramway line that linked Menton to Sospel via Castillon. 120 metres long, made up of 13 arches and shaped like an “omega”, the viaduct allowed the tramway to make a loop on the side of the mountain. Its purpose? To bring building materials for the railway line from Nice to Breil-sur-Roya (which has since become the Tende line, the famous Train des Merveilles).
Hiking
through the mountains
In addition to its rock-climbing area, there are many paths through the mountains that are ideal for discovering magnificent views. If you fancy a walk on the outskirts of the village, you can reach the ruins of its 15th century chapel within an hour. Also explore the Forêt de l’ubac Foran, where the view from the top is simply breathtaking. Alternatively, go from Castillon to Sainte-Agnès along the forest track (which takes about 2 hours one way). This old mule track is an easy walk to follow.
Castillon
Cycling country
Finally, Castillon is a key cycling leg on the Route des Grandes Alpes. The ascent to the pass is very popular among cycling enthusiasts. Starting from Menton, it provides wonderful twists and turns and stunning scenery with a view overlooking the sea.
