Walking The French Riviera

Day 1
On arrival to Nice airport we take a short 45min bus transfer to our hotel in Menton. Situated just a short stroll from the train station, beach and shops, it is ideally located for a week of centre-based walking. In the evening our guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answer any questions.

Day 2
Today we discover the region. Starting from the hotel we walk around the beautiful Cap Martin Peninsula, passing through the perched village of Roquebrune Cap Martin. Located between Menton and Monaco it enjoys spectacular views the Mediterranean sea. An old village dominated by a charming 10th century fort, it's narrow, stepped streets, deep vaulted passages are perfect to explore on foot. Walk: Distance 12 km Ascent 232 m Descent 232m Time: 4 to 5 hours

Day 3
We begin our day by bus, taking a 45 minute journey to Sospel. With the feel of a mountain town it is a peaceful village located very near to the Italian border and was once an important staging post on the royal road from Nice to Turin. Its cobbled street, gothic houses and baroque cathedral make a picturesque starting point from which to begin our walk. From here we enjoy a walk at the border of the Mercantour National Park before heading back to our hotel by bus where we can enjoy an aperitif on the sun terrace or perhaps a stroll along the coastal path before dinner. Walk: Distance 14 km Ascent 827 m Descent 827 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 4
Today we will discover Eze, a pretty little 14th century village, famous for its production of clove and orange fruit. Built on a hill, it offers magnificent views of the coast. We reach Eze by train or bus and from here enjoy a balcony walk to the famous principality of Monaco. The second smallest country in the world, it's glamorous casino and manicured streets offer a contrast to the small mountain villages seen earlier in the week. Late afternoon we return to Menton by public transport. Walk: Distance 11 km Ascent 775 m Descent 775m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 5
On your free day you could choose to explore Menton old town. During the 19th century, the British and Russian aristocracy met here in fabulous palaces and villas. The architecture is stunning with the unique baroque style of the Saint-Michel and Conception squares as well as the Saint-Michel Basilica façade. Alternatively you could visit one or more of the 8 gardens of Menton or head further afield to Nice by train or bus and visit its renowned market as well as the 'Promenade des Anglais'. Monaco also has much to offer, particularly its exotic garden which is hanging over the 'Rocher' giving a beautiful view over the city and the sea.

Day 6
High above Menton town, the village of Sainte Agnes hides picturesque streets and artists studios. It is perched at 800m andholds the title of 'one of the most beautiful French village'. It offers a breathtaking view over the Mediterranean sea as well as being a gateway to numerous great walks. Ascending by bus to Gorgio, we will then join Sainte Agnes through the Cime de Baudon, one of the nicest walks of the French Riviera. From here we will walk down to Menton by little tracks enjoying the sunset views over the coastline. For those wishing to take a more leisurely pace it is possible to take the public bus back from Sainte Agnes. Walk: Distance 15 km Ascent 910 m Descent 1266 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 7
For our last walk of the week we will visit another perched village that is not to be missed: Castellar. Here we will spend the morning enjoying the winding streets, architecture and cafes. Those who wish for a more relaxed day can choose to take the public bus back to Menton, whilst we continue on foot to the Italian border and the Cime de Restaud (1119 m). From here we will enjoy our final decent into Menton for our farewell dinner. Walk: Distance 12 km Ascent 920 m Descent 1305 m Time: 5 to 6 hours

Day 8
After a relaxed breakfast we transfer to Nice for our flight to London.