©Damien Viano
Parc National Du Mercantour Isabelle FabreParc National Du Mercantour Isabelle Fabre|
Mercantour
Roya BévéraThe Train des Merveilles (The Train of Wonders)
Embark on a journey full of wonders!
The railway line running from Nice to Cuneo has served as a lifeline for over a hundred years. Crossing the valleys and mountains of Roya, the route is considered to be one of the most spectacular in the world. The Train des Merveilles stops at Sospel, Breil, Saorge, Fontan, La Brigue and Tende.
The dizzying overhangs and impressive gradients, running from the sea to the mountains, presented a huge challenge to engineers and architects. A hundred or so tunnels, some of which wind in and out, allow the train to climb to extraordinary heights. From this rugged terrain a natural beauty emerges, offering spectacular views from the top of the viaducts! This is a wonderful and authentic way to discover the villages in our mountain valleys! Climb aboard, the train is about to depart!
Exploring Bévéra
a fun day out, full of history, surrounded by nature!
Just under an hour from Menton, the Bévéra Valley makes a wonderful adventure and offers a relaxing way to get away from it all. We have arranged everything you need for this very special day out. Come and join us! First stop, is Sospel, an absolute must-see. Not to be missed is the iconic Pont-Vieux (Old Bridge), a reminder of the former Salt Mule Road, Saint-Michel Cathedral, and the Chapel of Sainte-Croix des Pénitents Blancs with its distinctly Baroque bell tower. Next… Explore the Chapel of Notre-Dame de la Menour in the Bévéra Gorges and take on the challenge of climbing its steps which are similar to a mini Wall of China. Take a little tour of the charming mountain village of Moulinet, then follow the road lined with chestnut trees towards the Col de Turini (Turin Pass). Finally, at the end of the day, enjoy a walk along the Authion Trail and take in the magnificent scenery that surrounds you!
FOCUS - VISIT
On the outskirts of Sospel, you can explore the three forts of the Alpine Maginot Line. To get the best out of you visit, we thoroughly recommend wearing warm clothing and a comfortable pair of shoes!
To reach the Roya Valley
- Roya Valley Access
Storm Alex hit our area hard on 2nd October in 2020. Please note that access to some Roya Valley towns and villages has been seriously affected.
To ensure you have a great time, whether at mid or high altitude, we strongly recommend contacting the Tende Tourist Information service prior to your visit: +33 4 83 93 98 82 or tende-tourisme@menton-riviera-merveilles.fr.
Mercantour National Park
a treasure to safeguard for future generations!
Mercantour Park is a conservation area, open to the public, and home to exceptionally diverse and rare varieties of flora and fauna. In terms of landscape, its unique character is due to the layered nature of its vegetation. From the Bévéra olive trees to the larch trees of the Valmasque Valley to the rocky alpine landscapes of Mont Bégo, for hikers, the journey is all about experiencing the scenery. In terms of plant life, over 2,400 different species have been identified. In springtime, multi-flowered saxifrages, houseleeks, moss campion and gentians offer a myriad of colours and scents to visitors. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including eagles, black grouse, mountain hares, and ermines. Hikers, keep your eyes peeled! Ibexes and marmots are easy to spot. All that’s needed is a little patience and silence. The things that magical childhood memories are made of.
The Roya Valley
an amazing destination!
Famous for the remarkable Vallée des Valley (The Valley of Wonders), the largest open-air museum in Europe with around 40,000 rock engravings, it is one of the most popular attractions in the Menton, Riviera & Valley area that can be visited all year round. The breathtakingly beautiful untamed landscape of this region is ideal for a wide variety of outdoor sports. You’re sure to have an amazing time! For those who love history, the hilltop villages along the ancient Salt Road bear witness to the valley’s rich historical and cultural past. The Roya Valley is an exceptional conservation area, offering hikers a unique treasure trove of rare flora and fauna.
IMPORTANT TO NOTE
As a result of Storm Alex, some of the valley’s villages and natural sites were left inaccessible. To get the most out of your visit, stay updated by contacting the valley’s tourist information offices
