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OVERVIEW

Behind the French Riviera's glamour hide these incredibly beautiful, timeless villages that are both nestled in lush Provençal valleys and perched precariously atop rocky cliffs. The ancient paths wind their way via villages, through forests and follow majestic olive groves.

Start off in the ancient town of Sospel, enjoy the Italian influence of the region (the walk includes a brief foray into Italy), and make your way through to Menton, probably the prettiest town on the French Riviera.

This walk showcases the diversity of the region, with serene wooded valleys, lavender fields, ancient villages, cobbled streets, panoramic ocean views and ancient architectural treasures. Say bonjour to this wonderful walk!

Note: if you're pushed for time, the 5 day option follows the same itinerary with the exception of another night in St Agnes and the Cime de Baudon walk.

Highlights

  • The diverse and captivating landscapes of the Alps and French Riviera
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the Mediterranean from clifftop vantage points
  • Authentic Provençal villages, old stone farmhouses and huts along centuries-old paths
  • The beautiful villages of Breil sur Roya, Sospel and Sainte-Agnés, the highest coastline village in Europe
  • Panoramic views of the ocean as you climb over the Bausson pass, Sainte Beaume and the Alps peaks
  • The Cime de Baudon summit with a superb 360-degree view of the region including mountain peaks
  • The magical town, colourful of Menton with its architectural treasures

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1995

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
SOSPEL

Please make your own way by train from Nice to Sospel and we will pick you up and take you to your accommodation in Sospel. Please advise us of your arrival time in Sospel. This is an ancient town with tall buildings and narrow streets. The stunning ancient footbridge from the 12th century separates the two halves of the town.  The heart of the old town of Sospel opens out into a wide sunny square dominated by the colourful facade of the Saint-Michel cathedral.  The beautiful  Saint Michael Cathedral is in fact the centrepiece of the town. It was built mostly in the 14th Century, however, the bell tower is thought to be from the 11th century. Sospel is far from the bustle of the coastline and surrounded by lush mountains and in a place where time is at a standstill.

Walking: No scheduled walking for today

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: La Chapelle Saint Gervais

Pascale welcomes you at this guest house which is set on a farm in Sospel. You are also invited to take in the views of the mountains from one of the south-facing terraces. All the rooms and the entire property is unique and peacefulness spills out from everywhere. Dinner and breakfast are included and breakfast is served in the dining area or on the terrace on sunny mornings.

 

 

DAY 2
BREIL SUR ROYA TO SOSPEL

Today we walk from France into Italy returning to Sospel in France.  The walk starts with a short transfer to Breil sur Roya. The route travels via Italy and the colourful town of Olivetta and then back again to the medieval town of Sospel. A slight ascent above the village gives you an immediate reward with a wonderful panorama of the valley

Breil sur Roya forms a compact crescent around a narrow rocky spur, nestled in the deep Roya valley. The colourful cobbled streets and ancient buildings are a delight to explore. You’ll hear both languages –French & Italian-and feel both influences in food, culture, and in architecture. It’s worth mentioning that the Breil sur Roya market is on Tuesday & Thursday morning

There are two choices in paths above the village and we’ve chosen the one less travelled, following abandoned stone terraces, now dotted with olive trees. You reach the stunning ghost town of Piène Haute, more Italian than French, perched high above the valley. A shortened version of today’s walk is available.

Walking: Moderate / 15km or 10km / 5.5 hrs or 4 hrs / +600 / -550m or +330 / -490m
Meals: Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: La Chapelle Saint Gervais

 

DAY 3
COL DE CASTILLON TO SAINTE AGNES

There is a short transfer that takes you to the start of the walk. After a gradual climb through a scenic beech forest, the summit appears. At well over 1000m above the sea, the majestic views of the Mediterranean appear for the first time as do the southern Alps. You reach the village of Sainte Agnès, listed among the most beautiful villages in France. At 800m in altitude, it’s the highest coastline village in Europe. It is worth noting the Sospel market is on Thursday morning.

Walking: Moderate / 10km / 4 hours / +550/ -550m
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Saint Yves

Friendly staff and airy clean rooms await you at Hotel St. Yves. It offers en suite accommodations with free Wi-Fi access. Its remarkable view from the terrace gives you the needed relaxation and they offer a tasty buffet breakfast prepared from good quality ingredients.

DAY 4
SAINTE AGNES VIA CIME DE BAUDON SAINT AGNES

Today’s walk starts from the quaint village of Sainte Agnès, with a steady climb over the Bausson pass. For 30 minutes you will traverse a small mountain road, mostly used by cyclists, with excellent panoramic views of the ocean as you walk. The Cime de Baudon summit is a highlight with a superb 360-degree view of the region including the surrounding mountain peaks of Sainte Beaume and the Alps.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4.5 hrs / +600m / -600m
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Saint Yves

Friendly staff and airy clean rooms await you at Hotel St. Yves. It offers en suite accommodations with free Wi-Fi access. Its remarkable view from the terrace gives you the needed relaxation and they offer a tasty buffet breakfast prepared from good quality ingredients.

DAY 5
CASTELLAR TO MENTON

This is the last taste of tranquillity before you hit the Cote d’Azur or the French Riviera. There is a short transfer to Castellar to start the day. It is a slow descent, walking along a deep and scenic valley. Your path eventually leads you to the heart of the town of Menton, the prettiest town on the French Riviera (or Italy as it is on the border) with its colourful streets winding around in never-ending labyrinths. The town is a bit of an unknown corner and the last stop on the Cote d’Azur before Italy. It’s well worth exploring for its architectural treasures, the old port or the museum devoted to Jean Cocteau just for starters. There is ample time today to walk along the esplanade and discover Menton. Probably the least developed of all the French Riviera.

Walking: Moderate / 7km / 3 to 4 hrs / +25m / -450m (there’s extra walking in Menton)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hôtel Princess Richmond

This hotel has a flower garden and soundproof accommodations with free Wi-Fi access and is considered a guest’s favourite part of Menton. The property also features a lounge to make your visit even more pleasant. They serve a daily buffet breakfast and get relaxed with a drink in the hotel’s bar or on the grounds.

 

DAY 6
MENTON

The trip finishes after breakfast. There’s an undercover market here each day which you may wish to explore. Regular trains run from Menton to Nice daily. Au revoir.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 30+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5 nights accommodation in rooms with ensuites, in handpicked hotels or guesthouses
  • 5 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches and 2 dinners included
  • All transport on and off the track and luggage transfers days 2 to 5
  • Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
  • Old stone farmhouses and Bories, walls, and huts along centuries-old paths
  • Breil sur Roya, Sospel, Sainte Agnes and the magical “Italian type” town of Menton
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the Mediterranean
  • Authentic Provencal villages nestled in wooded valleys, surrounded by high mountains

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All the accommodations have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. From elegant guesthouses, and small charming hotels, to family-run Auberges, you can be assured that wherever you stay you will be warmly welcomed. The accommodations are 3 stars with an emphasis on location and the ambience of the region. We will endeavour to book all the accommodation listed below, but in the off chance we can’t, we will substitute something of equal quality.

Breakfasts are continental Provence style and typical of the region as are the 3 courses a la carte dinners that are provided.

In your notes, we will include a dossier with handpicked real local recommendations for evening meals in restaurants where even the locals like to eat.

Since the region is world-famous, we suggest adding a day or two to truly savour all that it has to offer.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • Night 1 & 2 - Sospel

  • Night 3 and 4 - Saint Agnes

  • NIGHT 5

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available from March to mid November. Please note there will be an additional supplement if you book in the last week of May to coincide with the Monaco Grand Prix. Please speak to one of our friendly destination consultants if you’d like more information.

HOW TO GET THERE AND

Travelling to the Start of the walk

The walk starts in Sospel at your first accommodation and ends in Menton on the final morning at your accommodation. Please refer to your itinerary. You will need to get yourself to Sospel, most likely from Nice, and we will pick you up from the Sospel station- so let us know when you will be arriving before departure.  From the end of your walk, you will need to organise your travel away from Menton. . To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

By plane and rail: The easiest option would be to fly into Nice and then catch the train from Nice to Sospel. There are many airlines that fly from Paris to Nice. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights 

www.google.com/flights

The train from Nice to Sospel will take around 1hr and will cost around €9.50 or AUD$ 15. Please find below ways to book.

Trainline.com: https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times

TGV: https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

By rail: It’s also very easy to catch a train from anywhere in France to Sospel. The fastest service is the TGV intercity high-speed rail service. This journey takes about 9 hrs with a connection at Nice. It will cost anywhere from €25 to €100 depending on booking conditions and the class of service chosen.

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

You can buy a ticket when you get there, however, we recommend pre-booking your tickets online.

Travelling from the End of the walk

By rail: The train from Menton back to Nice takes around 40 min and costs around €5.50 or AUD $9.00.

https://www.thetrainline.com

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

By plane: There are many airlines that fly from Nice to Paris. Below are 2 websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights

www.google.com/flights

WALKING

The walk is moderate with some small ascents. Full-day walks average about 13km with 4.5 – 6 Hours of walking each day. There is plenty of opportunities to add more walking if you’re up for it. The walking is over very old well-maintained paths via the most scenic pathway to the coast. This is a beautiful area with many fabulous historic attractions on top of the fabulous walking routes. We highly recommend that you incorporate some extra time after the walk to rest but also to fully immerse yourself in Provence and the Cote d’Azur.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 31 May 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jun 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2055

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $535

    High Season ONLY

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Oct 2025 - 15 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2026 - 31 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2075

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jun 2026 - 30 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2135

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $555

    High Season ONLY

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Oct 2026 - 15 Nov 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2075

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515

    Low Season

    BOOK NOW

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Behind the French Riviera's glamour hide these incredibly beautiful, timeless villages that are both nestled in lush Provençal valleys and perched precariously atop rocky cliffs. The ancient paths wind their way via villages, through forests and follow majestic olive groves.

Start off in the ancient town of Sospel, enjoy the Italian influence of the region (the walk includes a brief foray into Italy), and make your way through to Menton, probably the prettiest town on the French Riviera.

This walk showcases the diversity of the region, with serene wooded valleys, lavender fields, ancient villages, cobbled streets, panoramic ocean views and ancient architectural treasures. Say bonjour to this wonderful walk!

Note: if you're pushed for time, the 5 day option follows the same itinerary with the exception of another night in St Agnes and the Cime de Baudon walk.

Highlights

  • The diverse and captivating landscapes of the Alps and French Riviera
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the Mediterranean from clifftop vantage points
  • Authentic Provençal villages, old stone farmhouses and huts along centuries-old paths
  • The beautiful villages of Breil sur Roya, Sospel and Sainte-Agnés, the highest coastline village in Europe
  • Panoramic views of the ocean as you climb over the Bausson pass, Sainte Beaume and the Alps peaks
  • The Cime de Baudon summit with a superb 360-degree view of the region including mountain peaks
  • The magical town, colourful of Menton with its architectural treasures

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
6 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1995

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6

DAY 1
SOSPEL

Please make your own way by train from Nice to Sospel and we will pick you up and take you to your accommodation in Sospel. Please advise us of your arrival time in Sospel. This is an ancient town with tall buildings and narrow streets. The stunning ancient footbridge from the 12th century separates the two halves of the town.  The heart of the old town of Sospel opens out into a wide sunny square dominated by the colourful facade of the Saint-Michel cathedral.  The beautiful  Saint Michael Cathedral is in fact the centrepiece of the town. It was built mostly in the 14th Century, however, the bell tower is thought to be from the 11th century. Sospel is far from the bustle of the coastline and surrounded by lush mountains and in a place where time is at a standstill.

Walking: No scheduled walking for today

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: La Chapelle Saint Gervais

Pascale welcomes you at this guest house which is set on a farm in Sospel. You are also invited to take in the views of the mountains from one of the south-facing terraces. All the rooms and the entire property is unique and peacefulness spills out from everywhere. Dinner and breakfast are included and breakfast is served in the dining area or on the terrace on sunny mornings.

 

 

DAY 2
BREIL SUR ROYA TO SOSPEL

Today we walk from France into Italy returning to Sospel in France.  The walk starts with a short transfer to Breil sur Roya. The route travels via Italy and the colourful town of Olivetta and then back again to the medieval town of Sospel. A slight ascent above the village gives you an immediate reward with a wonderful panorama of the valley

Breil sur Roya forms a compact crescent around a narrow rocky spur, nestled in the deep Roya valley. The colourful cobbled streets and ancient buildings are a delight to explore. You’ll hear both languages –French & Italian-and feel both influences in food, culture, and in architecture. It’s worth mentioning that the Breil sur Roya market is on Tuesday & Thursday morning

There are two choices in paths above the village and we’ve chosen the one less travelled, following abandoned stone terraces, now dotted with olive trees. You reach the stunning ghost town of Piène Haute, more Italian than French, perched high above the valley. A shortened version of today’s walk is available.

Walking: Moderate / 15km or 10km / 5.5 hrs or 4 hrs / +600 / -550m or +330 / -490m
Meals: Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: La Chapelle Saint Gervais

 

DAY 3
COL DE CASTILLON TO SAINTE AGNES

There is a short transfer that takes you to the start of the walk. After a gradual climb through a scenic beech forest, the summit appears. At well over 1000m above the sea, the majestic views of the Mediterranean appear for the first time as do the southern Alps. You reach the village of Sainte Agnès, listed among the most beautiful villages in France. At 800m in altitude, it’s the highest coastline village in Europe. It is worth noting the Sospel market is on Thursday morning.

Walking: Moderate / 10km / 4 hours / +550/ -550m
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Saint Yves

Friendly staff and airy clean rooms await you at Hotel St. Yves. It offers en suite accommodations with free Wi-Fi access. Its remarkable view from the terrace gives you the needed relaxation and they offer a tasty buffet breakfast prepared from good quality ingredients.

DAY 4
SAINTE AGNES VIA CIME DE BAUDON SAINT AGNES

Today’s walk starts from the quaint village of Sainte Agnès, with a steady climb over the Bausson pass. For 30 minutes you will traverse a small mountain road, mostly used by cyclists, with excellent panoramic views of the ocean as you walk. The Cime de Baudon summit is a highlight with a superb 360-degree view of the region including the surrounding mountain peaks of Sainte Beaume and the Alps.

Walking: Moderate / 15km / 4.5 hrs / +600m / -600m
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Saint Yves

Friendly staff and airy clean rooms await you at Hotel St. Yves. It offers en suite accommodations with free Wi-Fi access. Its remarkable view from the terrace gives you the needed relaxation and they offer a tasty buffet breakfast prepared from good quality ingredients.

DAY 5
CASTELLAR TO MENTON

This is the last taste of tranquillity before you hit the Cote d’Azur or the French Riviera. There is a short transfer to Castellar to start the day. It is a slow descent, walking along a deep and scenic valley. Your path eventually leads you to the heart of the town of Menton, the prettiest town on the French Riviera (or Italy as it is on the border) with its colourful streets winding around in never-ending labyrinths. The town is a bit of an unknown corner and the last stop on the Cote d’Azur before Italy. It’s well worth exploring for its architectural treasures, the old port or the museum devoted to Jean Cocteau just for starters. There is ample time today to walk along the esplanade and discover Menton. Probably the least developed of all the French Riviera.

Walking: Moderate / 7km / 3 to 4 hrs / +25m / -450m (there’s extra walking in Menton)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hôtel Princess Richmond

This hotel has a flower garden and soundproof accommodations with free Wi-Fi access and is considered a guest’s favourite part of Menton. The property also features a lounge to make your visit even more pleasant. They serve a daily buffet breakfast and get relaxed with a drink in the hotel’s bar or on the grounds.

 

DAY 6
MENTON

The trip finishes after breakfast. There’s an undercover market here each day which you may wish to explore. Regular trains run from Menton to Nice daily. Au revoir.

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 5 nights accommodation in rooms with ensuites, in handpicked hotels or guesthouses
  • 5 breakfasts, 3 picnic lunches and 2 dinners included
  • All transport on and off the track and luggage transfers days 2 to 5
  • Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
  • Old stone farmhouses and Bories, walls, and huts along centuries-old paths
  • Breil sur Roya, Sospel, Sainte Agnes and the magical “Italian type” town of Menton
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the Mediterranean
  • Authentic Provencal villages nestled in wooded valleys, surrounded by high mountains
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All the accommodations have been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. From elegant guesthouses, and small charming hotels, to family-run Auberges, you can be assured that wherever you stay you will be warmly welcomed. The accommodations are 3 stars with an emphasis on location and the ambience of the region. We will endeavour to book all the accommodation listed below, but in the off chance we can’t, we will substitute something of equal quality.

Breakfasts are continental Provence style and typical of the region as are the 3 courses a la carte dinners that are provided.

In your notes, we will include a dossier with handpicked real local recommendations for evening meals in restaurants where even the locals like to eat.

Since the region is world-famous, we suggest adding a day or two to truly savour all that it has to offer.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • Night 1 & 2 - Sospel

  • Night 3 and 4 - Saint Agnes

  • NIGHT 5

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available from March to mid November. Please note there will be an additional supplement if you book in the last week of May to coincide with the Monaco Grand Prix. Please speak to one of our friendly destination consultants if you’d like more information.

HOW TO GET THERE AND

Travelling to the Start of the walk

The walk starts in Sospel at your first accommodation and ends in Menton on the final morning at your accommodation. Please refer to your itinerary. You will need to get yourself to Sospel, most likely from Nice, and we will pick you up from the Sospel station- so let us know when you will be arriving before departure.  From the end of your walk, you will need to organise your travel away from Menton. . To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

By plane and rail: The easiest option would be to fly into Nice and then catch the train from Nice to Sospel. There are many airlines that fly from Paris to Nice. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights 

www.google.com/flights

The train from Nice to Sospel will take around 1hr and will cost around €9.50 or AUD$ 15. Please find below ways to book.

Trainline.com: https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times

TGV: https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

By rail: It’s also very easy to catch a train from anywhere in France to Sospel. The fastest service is the TGV intercity high-speed rail service. This journey takes about 9 hrs with a connection at Nice. It will cost anywhere from €25 to €100 depending on booking conditions and the class of service chosen.

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

You can buy a ticket when you get there, however, we recommend pre-booking your tickets online.

Travelling from the End of the walk

By rail: The train from Menton back to Nice takes around 40 min and costs around €5.50 or AUD $9.00.

https://www.thetrainline.com

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

By plane: There are many airlines that fly from Nice to Paris. Below are 2 websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights

www.google.com/flights

WALKING

The walk is moderate with some small ascents. Full-day walks average about 13km with 4.5 – 6 Hours of walking each day. There is plenty of opportunities to add more walking if you’re up for it. The walking is over very old well-maintained paths via the most scenic pathway to the coast. This is a beautiful area with many fabulous historic attractions on top of the fabulous walking routes. We highly recommend that you incorporate some extra time after the walk to rest but also to fully immerse yourself in Provence and the Cote d’Azur.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 31 May 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jun 2025 - 30 Sep 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2055

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $535
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Oct 2025 - 15 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1995

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2026 - 31 May 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2075

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Jun 2026 - 30 Sep 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2135

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $555
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Oct 2026 - 15 Nov 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2075

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
    BOOK NOW
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