Walking in the Maritime Alps, France

The Maritime Alps are the southernmost chain of the European Alps, which stretch right down almost to the coast behind Nice and Cannes. For holidaymakers who spend their time soaking up the sun on the beaches of the Cote d’Azur, the contrast of the Maritime Alps could not be greater. A visit to these nearby towering mountains or, better still, a walk in them, would enrich a holiday on the French Riviera no end. In fact you could be back swimming in the blue Mediterranean Sea within an hour of completing your walk.

Sounds appealing? Take a look at these three great walks in the Maritime Alps.

The Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge is the biggest canyon in Europe, carved, in places, 700 metres-deep. This awe-inspiring gorge is as spectacular as they come where some incredible walks await you. One of the best walks can be found at the north side of the canyon from either Samson’s Couloir or Chalet de la Maline.

Ideally walkers need to have a second car waiting for them at the other end of the canyon or a driver who can drop them off at the start and pick them up at the finish. The Verdon Gorge is popular amongst tourists and gets busy during the high season. It is therefore advisable to attempt the walk in the autumn or spring when not only are the trails quieter but the weather is also cooler.

Circuit du Mont Bastide

The Circuit du Mont Bastide takes walkers through Eze sur Mer, one of the most picturesque villages in France. The walk winds up a path that lies adjacent to staggering limestone cliffs. Walkers eventually come to the medieval village of Eze and Mont Bastide taking in the fabulous panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby Mediterranean.

The Pennavaire Valley

The Pennavaire Valley is one of the most stunning and impressive spots in the Maritime Alps. Just several kilometres from the Italian Riviera, the Pennavaire Valley offers some incredible hiking opportunities for walkers of all abilities.

Enjoy meandering down the ancient mule tracks that connect many traditional local villages and becoming acquainted with the local natural delights that wildly blossom in this unspoilt region of the Cote d’Azur. You never know, you might just catch sight of wild boar roaming amongst the rosemary, thyme, cherries, chestnuts, mushrooms and figs!