Coastal Hikes on the French Riviera
On a whim from Antibes & Juan les Pins to Ville Franche, St-Jean Cap Ferrat, Eze, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin & Menton!
When my parents first floated the idea of meeting them in Nice, I hesitated. My heart was already set on Crete for September, and while Nice and I have shared some lovely memories, it wasn’t exactly calling my name this year.
But then curiosity nudged me to explore new ways to experience the region. A few Google rabbit holes later, I discovered a treasure trove of coastal hikes around Nice, and what unfolded was one of my most inspiring adventures.
Antibes: Where Villas and Gardens Compete for Attention
My journey began with a bus ride from Nice Airport to Antibes, where I checked into my hotel particulier: Hotel Garoupe Gardiole—a charming spot with a pool and exterior nook for what the French call “le snacking”, another word for fancy drinks and snacks. My room was cozy chic, though I did wish for a mosquito screen (Europe, why must you test my love for fresh air?).
The next morning, I set off through a parade of decadent villas, each one seemingly auditioning for a movie set, until I reached Plage Garoupe. There, the sentier littoral awaited: a 5km of dreamy coastal path that’s part scenic promenade with shades of turquoise and blues, part secret garden, and occasionally, a single-file adventure. Mid-May meant just enough fellow hikers for company, but plenty of solitude for introspecting and scenic intaking. The path, mostly stone, dips and rises along the coastline—bring a walking stick and a sense of adventure if you’re not a fan of steep steps.
The trail ends at a wild beach, which, on my visit, was taken over by jellyfish, so long sea dip! I continued toward Juan Les Pins, a dreamy blend of vintage nightlife, beach bars and relaxation stations. I settled for a front row beach facing swing chair, a glass of wine and salty treat at VILLA DJUNAH, where I felt comfortable enough to leave my bag and score a victorious, jellyfish-free swim.
I chose to wander back to Garoupe the same way, the way back brings more perspective and it was just as enchanting—26km in total, and totally worth it.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: Beaches, Baguettes, and Bliss
Villefranche-sur-Mer was my next stop, chosen for its direct bus route, romantic reputation, and the promise of convenient evening meetups with my parents. The town is enchanting with a delightfully quiet beach on May weekdays and mornings. The water is brisk but rewarding, and the local bakery and grocer quickly became my go-tos. I felt safe wandering the town and the outskirts to my short-term let, and the seaside cafés buzzed with day-trippers and cruise-goers. Magnifique, indeed.
Nice: Tapas, Tipples, and Twists Through Old Town
Nice surprised me—in the best way. I loved people-watching and sipping Negronis at Cours Saleya, but my favourite haunt was La Cave du Cours. Here, the staff play sommelier-psychic, serving you wines based on your preferences (or you can select your own from their adorable retail nook). Tapas appeared as if by magic: cheeses, breads, meats—the works. The bill was surprisingly gentle, and the experience, utterly memorable. Don’t miss a stroll along the boardwalk and a meander through the old town’s labyrinthine lanes.
Èze: Stairway to (Sweaty) Heaven
After some research, I decided to hike up to Èze (you can also take a bus). Spoiler: If you choose to hike, it’s all steps, all the time. The views are spectacular, but be warned—you’ll arrive at the top glistening with exertion, surrounded by effortlessly chic tourists and the scent of perfume shops. I encountered a handful of people, and must say that I would not recommend this route to solo travellers, given the few people and steep ascent. Once I got to the trop, I made a quick tour of the old city and, on a whim, visited the Fragonard perfume factory. I left by bus with a bottle of Héliotrope Gingembre, which suits me perfectly.
St-Jean Cap Ferrat: Glamour by the Sea
I was lucky enough to do this hike twice—once in the rain (moody and mysterious), and once bathed in sunshine (utterly sublime). The coastal walk is reminiscent of Antibes but with an extra dash of glamour. Expect to pass dreamy villas, sunbathers, and boats galore, with plenty of secluded beaches for a secret swim or a quiet picnic.
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton: Architecture, Inspiration, and Aperitifs
After a pilgrimage to Villa Savoye in Poissy, I was eager to see Cap Moderne—a dazzling collaboration between Eileen Gray and Le Corbusier. I booked a guided tour (the only way in!), hopped a train from Villefranche, and was soon swept into a world of design, tragedy, and inspiration. The Corbusier path stretches for miles, offering jaw-dropping viewpoints that demand to be experienced. I discovered a talented architect, Eileen Grey, a pioneer in modern architecture and the true genius of Cap Moderne. I was also enamoured by Le Corbusier’s minimalist cabin, where actualization basks in wild gardens and the sea.
From there, I zipped off to Menton to meet my parents, who were waiting for me at the tourist centre (tip: the tourist centres were great meeting points, seating areas and charging stations with friendly advice). We strolled the boardwalk, admired the Basilique of Saint-Michel-Archange
, and settled in for an aperitif. Menton is a riot of colour, architecture, and beachy charm—a perfect finale to a trip that blended culture, nature, and coastal hikes.
If you’re craving a Riviera adventure that’s equal parts scenic, soulful, and slightly serendipitous, lace up your hiking boots and let the coast lead the way. From family-friendly coastal hikes near Nice to hidden gems and easy hiking trails along the French Riviera, there’s a path here for every traveller.
