“The walk along the coastal path is truly serene. You can feel the Mediterranean. Just a few steps lead directly to the sea, inviting you to take a dip. It’s as if time stands still.”
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
In the Old Village
The medieval chateau of Roquebrune
A beautiful medieval village is tucked away above Roquebrune. This is a real village with personality where you can explore its maze of pretty lanes… The chateau has stood in the village centre for over 1,000 years. You can’t help but want to find out more about its exciting past. And its Carolingian architecture that’s rare to see nowadays. History is everywhere. Children can have fun playing at being knights! Personally, I love to gaze at the orange roofs, the bell tower of Sainte-Marguerite Church, Cap Martin, the coastline, the Mediterranean, and the horizon in the distance. Wonderful memories to take home!
The Le Corbusier Trail
A spectacular panoramic view
The Le Corbusier trail, with its rocky terrain, ancient piers and crystal-clear waters below, offers five kilometres of unspoilt scenery stretching between the sea and the mountains. This former customs officer’s path is dotted with architectural masterpieces including Belle Epoque villas, Cap Moderne and a number of private properties. All of these illustrate the love both artists and architects have for the area! The highlight of the walk has to be Le Buse Beach and its crystal-clear waters… Perfect for a swim after a walk in the sun!
EXPERT ADVICE
The Natura 2000 trail is full of species that are native to the area as well as those introduced by man. Specialist nature guides are available to accompany you on the trail. Enjoy learning all about the flora and fauna of this little piece of paradise.
Roquebrune
Cap Moderne
A remarkable collection of 20th century modern architecture, Cap Moderne brings together Eileen Gray and Jean Badovicci’s Villa E-1027, Le Corbusier’s cabin the Etoile de Mer bar-restaurant and Les Unités de Camping. A unique expression of avant-garde architecture inspired by the area’s natural beauty, the site also tells a wonderful story of friendship and artistic endeavour! This is a popular site and can only be visited with a guide. Make sure you book in advance!
Le Buse Beach
A protected area
The little beach of Le Buse in the bay of Cabbé, surrounded by hills, is a rare wonder, with a mosaic of turquoise waters and a long stretch of pebbles heated by the sun. The somewhat arduous footpath leaves the spot fairly unspoilt, away from the noise and hustle and bustle of life. A magical place, where several sub-aqua, freshwater springs create refreshingly cool pockets in the warm water. Once frequented by Le Corbusier and Coco Chanel and her entourage, Le Buse Beach has a mysteriously, timeless charm.
HIGHLIGHTS
On the Buse beach, we take a gourmet break at the restaurant Le Cabanon, with our feet in the sand and our heads in the banana trees!
Cap Martin Fort
In remembrance of history
Built in 1930 as part of the Maginot Line, the fort bears witness to the harsh reality of the Second World War. 343 soldiers and 11 officers used to live here, completely self-sufficient! Combat blocks, barracks, an infirmary and a museum of weapons illustrate how this underground unit operated. “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” wrote George Santayana. A visit to the site is a must if you don’t want to forget! The site is looked after by the AMICORF association in Menton, which organises visits every weekend (bookings can be made at the Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Tourist Information Office).