Mercantour National Park: A Natural Alpine Treasure
Discover the Mercantour National Park: A pristine alpine paradise near the French Riviera, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
The Mercantour National Park, a protected area in the French Alps, offers a stunning escape into nature. Established in 1979, it's known for its diverse landscapes, from deep valleys and alpine meadows to towering peaks and glacial lakes. Hiking is a major draw, with over 1,700 km of trails catering to all skill levels. Discover the Vallée des Merveilles with its ancient rock carvings, or marvel at Lac d'Allos, the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including chamois, ibex, marmots, and various bird species. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful immersion in nature, the Mercantour National Park promises an unforgettable experience, easily accessible from the French Riviera.
A brief summary to Parc national du Mercantour
- 23 Rue d'Italie, Nice, 06000, FR
- +33493167888
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, especially for high-altitude hikes. Conditions can change rapidly.
- Bring appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, rain gear, and sun protection. Pack plenty of water and snacks.
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (July and August). Refuges along popular hiking routes can fill up quickly.
- Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. Do not feed animals. Store food properly to avoid attracting unwanted attention.
- Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (June or September) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Some facilities may have limited hours.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nice, several bus lines operated by Lignes d'Azur provide access to various valleys within the Mercantour National Park. The Randobus service, available during the summer, offers routes specifically for hikers, reaching trailheads in the Vésubie, Gordolasque, Tinée, and Cians valleys. A one-way fare costs approximately €3, payable on the bus. Check the Lignes d'Azur website or app for schedules and routes. Some routes may involve a free shuttle from a village to the start of hiking trails.
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Driving
Accessing the Mercantour by car involves driving from Nice along scenic mountain roads. The journey time ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the specific valley and destination. For the Roya Bévéra valley, take the A8 motorway towards Menton/Genoa, exiting at Ventimiglia, then follow the RD6204 towards Col de Tende. Alternatively, a more scenic route from Nice involves the D2204 and D2566 through the Col de Braus and Col de Brouis, passing through Sospel and Breil-sur-Roya. Be aware that some mountain passes may be closed during winter. Parking is available at trailheads, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. Some parking areas, like Countet in the Gordolasque valley, have real-time occupancy information available online. Parking fees may apply at certain locations, such as at Lac d'Allos (€10 per car during regulated hours in high season).
Discover more about Parc national du Mercantour
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Citadelle d'Entrevaux
29.9 km
Explore the Citadelle d'Entrevaux, a Vauban-designed fortress offering panoramic views and a journey through centuries of military history.
Piazza Galimberti
46.2 km
Discover the charm of Piazza Galimberti in Cuneo, Italy, where history, culture, and vibrant local life converge in a stunning square.
Ancien Hôtel Régina
47.9 km
Explore the majestic Ancien Hôtel Régina, a historical landmark in Nice, where elegance meets the rich history of the Belle Époque.
Arènes de Cimiez
47.9 km
Discover the Arènes de Cimiez, an ancient Roman amphitheater in Nice, where history meets breathtaking Mediterranean beauty.
Croix séraphique de Cimiez
48.0 km
Experience the historical charm of Croix Séraphique de Cimiez in Nice, a serene landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich history.
Garden of Arenas Cimiez
48.0 km
Discover the enchanting Garden of Arenas Cimiez in Nice, where nature, history, and stunning views create a peaceful retreat in the heart of the French Riviera.
Place Jean-Paul II Statue
48.0 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Place Jean-Paul II Statue in Nice, where history and natural beauty come together for a peaceful experience.
Musée d'Archéologie de Nice / Cimiez
48.0 km
Discover the ancient treasures of the French Riviera at the Musée d'Archéologie de Nice, showcasing thousands of years of history in a picturesque setting.
Cimiez Monastery
48.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Cimiez Monastery in Nice, a must-visit destination for travelers seeking culture and tranquility.
Musée Franciscain de Cimiez
48.0 km
Explore the serene Musée Franciscain de Cimiez in Nice, showcasing Franciscan art, history, and tranquil gardens in a historic monastery setting.
Citerne
48.0 km
Explore the captivating Citerne in Nice, a historical landmark that tells the rich story of the region's cultural heritage and architectural beauty.
Thermes romains de Cimiez
48.1 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of Thermes Romain de Cimiez in Nice, where history unfolds amidst beautiful gardens and Roman architecture.
Collégiale Saint Paul
48.3 km
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Fontaine de Saint-Paul-de-Vence
48.4 km
Discover the enchanting Fontaine de Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a historical landmark in the picturesque village that embodies art, culture, and tranquility.
VILLA CAMELINE
48.5 km
Discover Villa Cameline in Nice, France: An exquisite art gallery showcasing contemporary works in a serene villa setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gorges Supérieures du Cians
13.5 km
Explore the stunning Gorges Supérieures du Cians in Beuil, France – a breathtaking ravine offering adventure, beauty, and tranquility in nature.
Alpha - Animal Park
15.7 km
Experience the beauty of wildlife at Alpha - Animal Park in Saint-Martin-Vésubie, a captivating destination perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Gorges du Cians
16.1 km
Explore the stunning Gorges du Cians, a natural masterpiece of towering cliffs and vibrant landscapes perfect for adventurous travelers.
Gorges de Daluis
22.8 km
Explore the Gorges de Daluis, a stunning hiking area in the French Alps, featuring breathtaking landscapes and vibrant geological formations.
Entrevaux Cathedral
30.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Entrevaux Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece and a historical landmark in the heart of the charming town of Entrevaux, France.
Entrevaux
30.3 km
Discover Entrevaux, a captivating medieval village in Provence, where history and stunning landscapes combine for an unforgettable journey back in time.
Collegiale Notre-Dame-Assomption
40.2 km
Experience the tranquility and architectural beauty of Collegiale Notre-Dame-Assomption in Tende, a captivating Catholic church and tourist attraction.
Lago Terrasole
40.4 km
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Ruines du chateau du castellet de St jeannet
41.1 km
Explore the majestic ruins of Château du Castellet, a hidden gem in Saint-Jeannet, offering history, breathtaking views, and a touch of adventure.
Vineyard Saint Jeannet - Domaine des Hautes Hills
42.4 km
Experience the enchanting Vineyard Saint Jeannet - Domaine des Hautes Hills, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking views in the heart of the French Riviera.
baou de Saint-Jeannet
42.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating hikes at Baou de Saint-Jeannet, a stunning mountain peak in the heart of the French Riviera.
Vignoble Rasse Saint-Jeannet Vindazur
42.5 km
Experience the beauty of Vignoble Rasse, a stunning vineyard in Saint-Jeannet, where exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes await every visitor.
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste
42.9 km
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Waterfalls of Saut du Loup
43.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfalls of Saut du Loup, a natural wonder offering stunning landscapes and serene trails in Gourdon, France.
Distillerie du Saut du Loup
43.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Happy Yummy - Nice Cimiez
47.8 km
Explore a delicious blend of Asian flavors at Happy Yummy - your go-to destination for hot pot and sushi in Nice.
Resto Côté Sud...
48.3 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Resto Côté Sud in Nice – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
La Route du Miam
48.4 km
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Villa al Taglio
48.4 km
Discover Villa al Taglio in Nice for an authentic Italian dining experience amidst the charm of the French Riviera.
Rendez-vous Des Arènes
48.5 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Rendez-vous Des Arènes in Nice - where local flavors meet delightful ambiance.
Le Regent
48.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Regent in Nice, where every dish tells a story and every meal is an unforgettable journey.
La buvette du musée
48.9 km
Discover La Buvette du Musée: A must-visit brasserie in Nice offering authentic French cuisine and a warm ambiance perfect for tourists.
Le Phenix Bleu
49.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Phenix Bleu in Nice - where tradition meets flavor in an inviting setting.
La Brigade du Goût @ La Turbie
49.1 km
Experience authentic local cuisine at La Brigade du Goût - A must-visit restaurant in La Turbie for pizza lovers and sandwich enthusiasts alike.
Nonna Francesca
49.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Nonna Francesca in La Turbie – where every dish tells a story.
Aux Amis d'Auguste
49.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views at Aux Amis d'Auguste in La Turbie.
Taxi Pizza
49.3 km
Savor authentic Italian pizza and bakery delights at Taxi Pizza in La Turbie - a must-visit culinary gem for every traveler.
Le Caprice Gourmand
49.3 km
Experience culinary bliss at Le Caprice Gourmand in La Turbie—your go-to tea house for gourmet treats and breathtaking views.
La Régence
49.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at La Régence in La Turbie – where every pizza tells a story amidst stunning Mediterranean views.
La Table Gourmande - Barbera
49.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chimères and CO
47.5 km
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Magic Shop Nice
47.6 km
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Antiquités Cimiez
47.9 km
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TRA//DISTRICT la seconde main invite le concept store made in Côte d'Azur
48.2 km
Explore TRA//DISTRICT in Nice for sustainable fashion and unique gifts that reflect the vibrant culture of the Côte d'Azur.
Les Trésors de Chloé
48.3 km
Explore Les Trésors de Chloé in Nice for exquisite gifts and stunning costume jewelry, embodying the elegance of French craftsmanship.
Maison Ouchenir V. Murat
48.3 km
Explore Maison Ouchenir V. Murat, an enchanting antique store in Nice filled with unique vintage treasures and rich historical charm.
Création d'Ana
48.4 km
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Shopping Côte d'Azur .com
48.4 km
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Magasin prada
48.7 km
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LUXURY BAGS DIRECT
49.1 km
Discover exquisite luxury bags and stylish clothing at Luxury Bags Direct, your premier shopping destination in Nice for high-end fashion.
Les French Riviera Girls de Véronique Mialhe
49.2 km
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La Cave de Claire
49.3 km
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Casino
49.4 km
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Le Coin du Fromager La Turbie
49.4 km
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La Carte Postale
49.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Cave
47.2 km
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evans
48.3 km
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Chez sam
48.4 km
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Bar Bagatelle
49.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nice at Bar Bagatelle, where good vibes and great drinks come together in a charming atmosphere.
TOMAHAWK
49.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tomahawk Bar in Nice, where delicious drinks meet a cozy ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
Kai's Monkey Business
49.9 km
Experience the unique blend of an art gallery and bar at Kai's Monkey Business in Nice, where culture and cocktails meet.
Le Swing
49.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Le Swing, a premier gay bar in Nice offering dinner theater, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
LE CROQUE BEDAINE Nice
50.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delightful flavors at Le Croque Bedaine, a must-visit bar in the heart of Nice, perfect for tourists seeking local charm.
Bar de la Victoire
50.1 km
Discover the charm of Bar de la Victoire in Nice, where friendly service meets refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Le Brungill
50.1 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Bar Le Brungill in Nice, a perfect retreat for tourists to enjoy drinks and local culture in a cozy setting.
Côté Lounge
50.2 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of French Mediterranean cuisine at Côté Lounge, where every meal is a delightful experience in the heart of Nice.
BAY SIDE
50.2 km
Experience the best of Nice at Bay Side, a charming wine bar offering an extensive selection and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the French Riviera.
Le 300
50.2 km
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Nomad Bar
50.2 km
Discover the lively Nomad Bar in Nice, where craft beer and delicious meals come together in a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Sausalito Bar Nice
50.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sausalito Bar in Nice, where delightful drinks and a cozy ambiance await every visitor.
