Col Saint-Michel (963 m) walks

This is the last stage ofthe GR® 52. It is certainly not the highest in altitude, but it is difficult due to its distance and the passage of certain passes with steep ascents and descents. The Mediterranean views are splendid, especially those from the Col du Razet and Col du Berceau, which rises to 1,100 metres above the town of Menton, the end point of theGR®. You walk along the Italian border throughout the route. Be warned, in summer this stage is very challenging due to the heat, especially the descent from the Col du Berceau.

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.

This third stage of the tour of the hills of Nice starts at the Saint-Charles tram stop on line 1 and climbs through the Saint-Charles district on the western flank of Mont Vinaigrier. From Mont Vinaigrier, it descends due south to the Col de Villefranche before climbing back up to Mont Alban and, after a loop around the Fort de Mont Boron, descends again to the port of Nice and finally reaches the Place Garibaldi tram stop via the Port district. The walk follows a beautiful ridge line and is certainly the most ‘natural’ stage of the Tour des Collines de Nice. The views over the bay of Villefranche and Cap Ferrat are magnificent.

An easy hike in spring or autumn. At the top of the Baou, there is a magnificent view of the French Riviera with a very accurate orientation table to identify the points along the coast and the surrounding peaks.