Pigna walks

A magnificent, easy hike straddling Italy and France. Superb panoramic views of the Nervia Valley and the Ligurian Alps, then the Roya Valley and the peaks of the Mercantour. On a clear day, you can see Mont Viso and Corsica.

Discover two magnificent ancient villages clinging to the mountainside, following the centuries-old paved and wooded path that connected the two villages. It's fun to get "lost" in the narrow streets while keeping the right direction; it's a labyrinth of houses with ancient walls and steep staircases.

Starting from the entrance to the national park on the edge of Rochetta Nervina, this hike will take you up into the mountains, accompanied by the gentle sound of the Barbaira, to Pont de Cin.Some sections are on the side of a cliff, with stony paths, which are best avoided if it has rained recently. In good weather, these sections are not particularly difficult.

Starting from the charming village of Rocchetta Nervina, this walk takes you up the Rio Barbaira to discover its beautiful pools and waterfalls. On the way back, a short tour of the old village will round off this lovely outing in Italy.

A very beautiful hike, starting with a walk through Breil-sur-Roya, whose narrow streets with vaulted porches are steeped in history. Then, after discovering a dozen crottés (small vaulted shelters), a real local curiosity, as well as the old Cruella watchtower overlooking the village, our route crosses the main areas of biological diversity located on the left bank of the Roya, overlooking the town.

A pleasant, easy forest hike, ideal for getting back into walking in the spring. The descent offers beautiful views of La Brigue, the Chaberta massif and the terraces built over the centuries, evidence of an agricultural past.

Discover one of the highest points in the village of Tende by climbing up to the Saint-Sauveur Chapel. This chapel, listed as a historic monument since 26 May 2000, was built on the orders of the first Count of Tende for his wife, who was Orthodox. It features 14th-century murals. The route is short but the climb is steep (250m elevation gain over less than 1km). Caution: tricky passage at the end.

The Refuge des Merveilles can be a destination in itself or the starting point for a guided tour of the petroglyphs or other hikes. The climb to the refuge via Lac des Mesches takes 3 hours and 15 minutes (excluding breaks) and has the advantage of being accessible by car or public transport (see "Practical Information").

Long, fairly strenuous hike. The summit offers a 360° panorama from the sea to the highest peaks of the Mercantour and Argentera. You will look out over the many lakes you will have passed along the way.

This hike takes you through the Vallon de la Minière and then the exceptional site of the Vallée des Merveilles.

Trace, in reverse, of the largest lap inside the Parc Départemental de l'Ubac Foran, in Menton. Following this route, you'll take the ascent, passing through shady areas and undergrowth with enough room for one person to pass, then a descent on a wide, sunny track.

An easily accessible hike offering fabulous views of the French Riviera from Menton to the Estérel. The village of Castellar is also worth a visit.

A very pretty hike, offering beautiful views of the Alps, including Monts Bégo, Clapier and Grand Capelet, in the upper part. The return journey is along a very pleasant, unmarked, little-used wooded path. In total, there is a small elevation gain of 490 m, which will help you get back into shape.

In the Roya Valley, above Saint-Dalmas-de-Tende, enjoy a beautiful snowshoe hike in the setting of Mont Bégo in the middle of the Vallée des Merveilles.

This panoramic hike is a loop starting from the hilltop village of Castellar and climbing the Cime de Restaud (1,148 m), the Roc de l'Orméa (1,132 m) and Mont Carpano (772 m) on the border ridge. Superb views over the French Riviera from Menton to Monaco and Vintimille. Beautiful views of the hinterland too, with the peaks of the Pays Mentonnais and the snow-capped peaks of the Mercantour.