France reopens the Train des Merveilles from Côte d’Azur to the Southern Alps
The Train des Merveilles, a scenic railway route connecting Nice on the French Riviera to the alpine town of Tende, has resumed service following a year-long closure for major renovations. This two-hour journey covers 100 kilometers and climbs 1,000 meters, offering passengers spectacular views of the Alpes-Azur mountains and the Mercantour national park.
Why this matters
The reopening of the Train des Merveilles restores access to one of Europe’s most remarkable train routes, linking the glamour of the Côte d’Azur with the natural beauty and medieval heritage of the Southern Alps. It supports regional tourism by providing an easy and scenic way to explore diverse landscapes, from coastal cities to mountain villages.
Key developments
- The railway line, originally built in 1883, underwent extensive maintenance including repairs to over 100 bridges, viaducts, tunnels, and retaining walls.
- Ingenious engineering features such as helical loop tunnels allow the train to gain altitude by winding inside the mountains.
- The route runs daily from June to September, with an onboard guide available on the 9:30 a.m. departure from Nice.
- A regional rail day pass including the Train des Merveilles costs €20.
Journey highlights
The train departs from Nice-Ville station, quickly leaving the urban area for rolling hills dotted with villas and chestnut trees. As the train ascends, passengers witness dramatic mountain scenery with jagged peaks towering over narrow valleys.
Stops along the route include:
- Sospel: A medieval town featuring the 13th-century Pont-Vieux bridge over the Bévéra River. Market days offer local produce such as flowers, cheese, and bread. The town’s quiet streets are lined with baroque churches and gothic houses.
- La Brigue: Known as the gateway to Mercantour national park, this village is home to the Chapel of Our Lady of Fountains. The chapel contains vivid 15th-century frescoes by Giovanni Canavesio, earning it the nickname “Sistine Chapel of the Southern Alps.”
- Tende: Located 800 meters above sea level, Tende is a medieval town surrounded by wooded slopes and high peaks. Visitors can explore the ruins of Chateau Lascaris and the Musée des Merveilles, which highlights the region’s Neolithic and Bronze Age rock engravings and its history as a stop on the historic Salt Road trade route.
Exploring the region
After returning to Nice, travelers can easily visit nearby coastal towns such as Antibes and Beaulieu-sur-Mer. Antibes offers a marina with yachts and 16th-century ramparts, while Beaulieu-sur-Mer features belle époque architecture and beaches ideal for swimming.
Local cuisine is an important part of the experience. Recommended dining spots in Nice include Acchiardo, serving traditional dishes like daube niçoise and duck breast with fig sauce, and Les Bar Des Oiseaux, a classic bistro decorated with reproductions of famous artworks and known for its bourride, a Provençal fish stew.
Conclusion
The Train des Merveilles provides a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of southeastern France, from the vibrant coast to the serene mountains. Its reopening enhances access to cultural heritage sites, natural parks, and charming towns, making it a valuable asset for both locals and tourists.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
