Circuit entre Authion et le Refuge des Merveilles

Hike along the Authion border, climb the Cime du Diable (2,685 m), with views of the lakes of the Vallée des Merveilles and its ancient rock carvings.

Located on the borders of the Vésubie, Bévéra and Roya valleys, Authion is the southernmost peak in the Alps above 2,000 metres. Hiking its three peaks (Pointe des Trois Communes, Forca and Mille Fourches) offers magnificent panoramic views between the Mediterranean Sea and the Mercantour massif. It is also an opportunity to discover its ancient military forts, which guarded the French-Italian border from the end of the19th century until the end of the Second World War.

This area with its four fortifications located at high altitude was the scene of fierce fighting, both in 1793 when the French invaded the County of Nice, and in April 1945, during one of the last battles between the German army and the Allies. These stone and cement structures, bearing multiple cannon and gunshot marks, bear witness to the violence of these final confrontations.

The sixth stage ofthe GR®52, where the landscapes change dramatically. Due to its length and significant descent of nearly 2,000 metres, the stage is very difficult. The descent to Sospel, which makes up two-thirds of the route, puts a real strain on the knees and ankles. Please note, it gets very hot in summer on this section.

In April 1945, the entire Authion massif was the scene of fighting that led to the liberation of the Alpes-Maritimes. This route passes through the main fortifications of the Alpes-Maritimes fortified sector (SFAM). Apart from its historical significance, this circular route offers magnificent panoramic views of the high peaks of the Mercantour to the north and the Mediterranean to the south.

A short circular forest offering views of the mountains towards the Mediterranean, as well as the peaks of the Mercantour.

From the Col de Turini, the trail climbs steadily towards the Cime de la Calmette, alternating between forest and open areas. The ascent is via a wide, safe path to the summit, which offers a beautiful view of the valley. The crossing to the Baisse de Patronel follows a pleasant path. The return journey, along a balcony path, becomes more challenging in places, with a few narrow passages requiring caution. A varied, bright and panoramic route, ideal for hikers accustomed to mountain terrain. Time: approximately 4 hours.

In the heart of the magnificent Turini Forest (3,500 hectares), the pass of the same name (1,674 metres) marks the climatic boundary between the Mediterranean hinterland of Nice and the mountainous "high country". Olive groves give way to fir, beech and larch forests, which are ablaze with colour in autumn. Throughout this loop, you will enjoy superb views of the entire region, including the Mounier, the Cime du Diable and the Vallon de la Maïris.