Head inland and discover the back country
Easily accessible from Monaco, the back country
has plenty of interesting places and activities to discover.
If boardsports are your thing, you’ll want to
check out the popular ski resorts of the southern Alps, less than an hour and a
half’s drive from the Principality.
The same applies if you prefer hiking, with
numerous coastal paths and mountain trails to be explored, along with famous
parks including the Mercantour and the Vallée des Merveilles.
Imagine spending a day out in nature on in the
snow, then returning to the relaxing comfort of your hotel at the end of the
day, to enjoy an evening full of all of the incredible things that Monaco has
to offer.
The village of Eze
Perched above the
Mediterranean Sea, Eze is widely thought of as one of the most beautiful
villages in the Alpes-Maritimes departement. Come and meet the local
artists, discover the remains of its medieval fortress, and magnificent exotic
garden. Follow the Nietzsche hiking trail down to the waster’s edge, 427 metres
below, and enjoy unique panoramic vistas.
Beaulieu-Sur-Mer
To the east of Cap-Ferrat, this seaside resort
was a popular destination for many royals during the Belle Epoque era, and
Beaulieu-sur-Mer has retained much of its original architecture. It is home to some prestigious edifices
including the Villa Kérylos, built in the early 20th century to a design
inspired by that of a stately Ancient Greek house, and now a listed monument.
St Jean Cap Ferrat
Nestling in the heart of a spectacular
peninsula, this little fishing port became an exclusive holiday resort in the
19th century, and is a most pleasant place to take a stroll.
Perched on the heights of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat,
you’ll find the famous Ephrussi de Rothschild villa built in the early 20th
century, with its Italian Renaissance inspirations and superb gardens in a
variety of styles.
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Overlooked by a citadel dating from the 16th
century, Villefranche lies on one of the world’s most beautiful bays. The
village was dear to Jean Cocteau, and in 1957 the artist decorated St. Peter’s
Chapel, which protects the fishers.
Nice
Discover Nissa la Bella, as the locals
call it, with its famous Promenade des Anglais and the old town with its
traditional narrow streets.
Nice is home to numerous museums and galleries,
including the MAMAC (Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art), the Matisse
Museum, and the National Marc Chagall Museum.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Nestling between
the Principality of Monaco and the town of Menton, this beautiful medieval
village is perched on the hillside. Admire the ancient castle dating from the
10th century, and savour the sumptuous views of the Mediterranean and Monaco.
From the
Principality, you can walk to Roquebrune via the Corbusier trail. As you follow
the path along the coast, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views, intimate beaches
with crystalline water, and a sight of the unique architectural complex
consisting of Eillen Gray’s villa E-1027 and Le Cabanon, designed by the great
architect Le Corbusier.
Menton
The last French
town before the Italian border, Menton is famous for its lemon festival, which
takes place between February and March each year. Explore its numerous
“Remarkable Gardens”, the old town dominated by St Michel Church and the
beautiful marketplace, not to mention the historic monuments including the
stunning Villa Maria Serena, built in the late 19th century to a design by the
architect Charles Garnier, who was also responsible for the Opéra Garnier in
Monaco.
The Italian Riviera
Whether just for a few hours or a whole day,
make the most of your stay in the Principality with a trip across the border to
discover the Riviera Dei Fiori.
Visit Ventimiglia and its famous market,
Bordighera, also known as the “City of Palm Trees” with its stunning 19th
century architecture, or Sanremo and its imposing casino dating from the early
20th century.
© Benjamin Vergély / DR / laviesauvage-rando / France Comfort / Vasil NanevEyeEmGetty Images / explorenicecotedazur / carnetsvoyage / Ville de Nice / roquebrune-cap-martin / Ville de Menton / italianriviera