The Best Hiking Trails in Alpes-Maritimes

Day 5 of the 7-day trek is characterised by vertical challenges and epic views. Just after the village of Moulinet, you enter the Mercantour National Park once more, following the Via Alpina Blue trail GR52....

The hike today is one long stretch of low-altitude trail from Sospel along to the Farguet Pass along the Via Alpina Red. From the pass, you then begin a meandering descent through the lush Mediterranean countryside to the historic village of Peille, and on to Peillon where you will spend the night....

Leave the village of Peillon via the GR51B and then head onto the final stage of the Via Alpina Red trail. This trail will lead you through the village of La Turbie, and descend down into Monaco, affording you fantastic views of the Mediterranean as you go....

Today is definitely one of the best days of the week-long Via Alpina hiking itinerary. You’ll enter the Mercantour National Park and pass through the famous Vallée des Merveilles (Valley of Marvels)....

This is perhaps the toughest hiking day of the trail, but it's not without its rewards, of which there are many! You start by leaving the Mercantour National Park via the GR52 into the beautiful Nice foothills, often carpeted with wildflowers and alive with the sound of crickets, floral scents, and wonderful panoramic views! Leaving the Refuge des Merveilles, follow the GR52 up to the Muta Lake and on to the Pas du Diable Pass....