The Nice hinterland is a real gem of the South of France. In this magnificent setting between the mountains and sea, discover nature reserves and natural parkland, such as Mercantour national park, and enjoy a great variety of scenery and landscapes.
Amid this wonderful fauna, the region is teeming with medieval villages steeped in history and with breathtaking panoramas.
Here’s our top selection:
1/ Eze
Far-removed from all the glitz and glamour of the Mediterranean seaside resorts, the village of Eze offers a magnificent view over the Mediterranean. Lose yourself in the cobbled streets and head off in search of the many perfumeries and art galleries in the village.
Our rentals near the village of Eze >
2/ Lucéram
Located about 30 minutes away from Nice, the fortified medieval village of Lucéram rises up over the Paillon valley, in the heart of lush countryside.
A winter-time visit is a delight too, over the Christmas season, to follow the “nativity scene trail” that the village has set up every year since 1998. A mixture of over 450 life-size and miniature nativity scenes are put on display, in collaboration with the village residents.
Don’t forget to stop by the church of Sainte Marguerite, which is classed as an historic monument!
3/ Saint-Paul de Vence
Head to Saint-Paul de Vence and its medieval walls, dating back to the middle ages! In our view, it’s one of the most charming in the Alpes Maritimes. Take a walk from Porte Royale to Porte du Sud, to see the superb 16th to 18th century stone facades.
Our rentals near the village > LA VENCIANNE II VI4139
4/ Aspremont
Lying to the north of the capital of the French Riviera, the village of Aspremont is perched high over the Plaine du Var. It offers magnificent panoramic vistas over the sea and surrounding towns and villages. Stroll around the village and discover the vaulted passageways, medieval houses and cobbled streets, in quest of the finest view in the village!
5/ Belvédère
The village of Belvédère is nestled on a mountain in the valley of Vésubie, at a height of 800 metres, right in the heart of Mercantour National Park, one of the finest nature reserves in France and just 1 hour away from Nice.
Starting from the village, in the direction of Gordolasque, take your pick from a wealth of enchanting walks and hikes through countryside dotted with lakes and mountain refuges, in the midst of chamois and marmots!
There are many other splendid villages we have not mentioned in this article, so don’t hesitate to visit the tourist office website for further information (link).