Corniches of Nice: Iconic Coastal Routes Along the French Riviera
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Nestled along the cliffs of the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur), the Trois Corniches de Nice—three coastal roads ascending from sea level to mountain heights—offer some of Europe’s most dramatic views. Stretching eastward from Nice, the Lower Corniche (Corniche Inférieure), Middle Corniche (Moyenne Corniche), and Upper Corniche (Grande Corniche) each provide a unique perspective of the Mediterranean, making them a pilgrimage for road-trippers and photographers alike.
Hugging the shoreline (N98), this accessible route passes through Cap Ferrat, where the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild steals the spotlight. Built in the Italian Renaissance style, the villa’s nine themed gardens and panoramic terraces overlook the Mediterranean, with rose-hued facades echoing the baroness’s romantic vision. Further east, Menton’s lemon-yellow buildings and yacht-dotted harbor create a postcard-perfect scene. A natural "frame" carved into the cliffside during construction frames ，inviting endless awe.
The N7 road blends history and nature. The medieval village of Èze, perched on a cliff, enchants with cobblestone streets and art galleries, while its hilltop botanical garden contrasts cacti with Mediterranean blue. At Col de Villefranche, a viewpoint captures Nice, Monaco, and surrounding bays—a photographer’s dream. Nearby La Turbie houses the Trophée des Alpes, a 2,000-year-old Roman monument celebrating Emperor Augustus’ victories.
Built by Napoleon along an ancient Roman path, the D2564 road climbs to 550 meters, offering dizzying vistas. Pine forests and cacti line the route, with sheer cliffs on one side and endless blue on the other. In winter, fog shrouds the road like a mystical veil, while clear days reveal Monaco’s skyscrapers and Alpine peaks in the distance. Menton, at the route’s end, blends French elegance with Italian flair, erupting into citrus-themed festivals each February (Fête du Citron).
- Driving: The Grande Corniche’s narrow sections require caution; avoid summer peak hours (June–August) by starting early.
- Public Transit: Buses #100 (Nice to Menton) and #112 (Nice to Beausoleil) serve the Lower and Middle Corniches, ideal for non-drivers.
- Best Seasons: Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds; check weather forecasts for winter fog on the Grande Corniche.
From medieval villages to art-filled villas, the Three Corniches redefine "scenic drive," transforming every bend into a love letter to the Mediterranean. Whether chasing history, gardens, or pure coastal magic, these roads promise an unforgettable rendezvous with the Côte d'Azur.
