Saorge
Ancient hilltop village in the heart of the Vallée de la Roya
Saorge is a wonderful medieval village perched high on a rock overlooking the magnificent Gorges de Saorge and the Vallée de la Roya; it's classed as one of the 40 most beautiful villages in France.
It sits in the concave face of a steep mountainside, looking out as if from the seats of an amphitheatre. It was in a perfect defensive position during turbulent times and was considered to be an unassailable stronghold, guarded by no less than three castles.
Many of the houses are from the 15th - 17th century and tower as many as five stories over the tiny courtyards. They are mostly ochre with some blue stone and red slate roofs; look out for the intricate details such as carved lintels, painted murals, sundials and engravings.
A stroll round the streets will reveal some beautiful gardens and vegetable patches on impressively steep ground, mostly tended by elderly people with a remarkable resistance to gravity.
Jump to
- History & Culture in [locality]
- Sights & Attractions in [locality]
- Beaches in [locality]
- Dining in [locality]
- Events in [locality]
- Things to do in [locality]
- Cycling in [locality]
- Hiking in [locality]
- Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
- Watersports in [locality]
- Families in [locality]
- Nightlife in [locality]
- Villas in [locality]
- Holidays Rentals in [locality]
- Hotels in [locality]
- Campsites in [locality]
- How to get to [locality]
- Property For Sale in [locality]
History & Culture in [locality]
Saorge was first recorded in the 10th century as Saurgio and you can find Roman inscriptions on many of the buildings.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
The narrow cobbled streets twist their way up to the top of the village, passing through tunnels and old vaulted passages to get to the ancient Franciscan Monastery.
The trompe-l'oeil facade and frescoed cloisters are worth the walk, as is the fantastic view down over the village with its slate roofs and tiled bell towers. Look down below the village and you’ll see the Romanesque bell tower of Madona del Poggio, an 11th century church that was built by Cistercian monks from the Iles de Lérins just off the coast of Cannes.
Sights in Nice
See all Sights in Nice-
Exotic Garden, Eze
Eze's exotic gardens were created after the Second World War, in the ruins of Eze castle. Located on steep terrain, it boasts wonderful panoramic views of the sea, the Esterel mountains and the Saint-Tropez gulf.
-
Asian Arts Museum
The Asian Arts Museum was created by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange who created a wonderful white marble and glass construction that stands in the middle of a lake in Park Phoenix.
-
Musee et Site Archeologiques Nice-Cemenelum Museum
This museum moved to its current location in 1989 though it has been open since 1960. It houses a variety of objects, from ancient times to the Middle Ages, including the Roman town of Cemenelum.
-
Matisse Museum
A small collection of some of Matisse's works and items from his own personal collection and that of his descendants are housed in an impressive 17th century Genoese mansion.
-
Vigier Park
Located close to the city’s harbour, this park stretches over a surface of 1 hectare.
-
Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology
The area around the Cote d'Azur is rich in prehistoric artefacts, many of which can be found in this fascinating museum.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Nice
See all Beaches in Nice-
Plage du Buse Beach, Roquebrune
Plage Buse is a pretty and undulating stretch of pebbly coastline tucked away to the west of the Roquebrune Cap Martin peninsula.
-
Plage du Golfe Bleu Beach, Roquebrune
This family-friendly beach is easy to get to but not so easy to find, which is perhaps why it always stays fairly quiet even in peak season.
-
Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap d’Ail beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
-
Plage Mala Beach, Cap d'Ail
This is a small and secluded beach with two excellent restaurants and safe swimming. Plage Mala is a little haven.
-
Plage Gramaglia Beach, Cap d'Ail
Located just beneath Restaurant La Pinede along the Sentier Littoral, Plage Gramaglia is more a series of rocky coves than a traditional beach.
-
La Plage d'Eze Beach, Eze
Eze-Sur-Mer has only one beach but it’s a lovely one; great for swimming as the water comes very high up the beach and it's in a calm bay.
Dining in [locality]
Tucked away amongst the maze of streets and alleyways are a few little shops and cafés; the square at the entrance to the village is the hub with a couple of little shops and bars where the locals like to gather for a pastis or two.
Restaurants in Nice
See all Restaurants in Nice-
La Table de Pierre Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
La Table de Pierre offers refined, garden-led cuisine by Chef Emmanuel Lehrer in a romantic setting with views over the estate.
-
Chateau Eza Restaurant, Eze
Château Eza offers a Michelin recommended restaurant serving à la carte French and Mediterranean cuisine against the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera.
-
Le Chantecler Restaurant
In a Regency-style dining room decorated with magnificent 18th century woodwork, Jean-Denis Rieubland proposes two menus, "Découverte" and "Chantecler".
-
La Bastide Saint Antoine Restaurant, Grasse
Michelin-starred La Bastide Saint-Antoine offers a refined retreat near Cannes, where chef Jacques Chibois creates inspired Provençal cuisine. Set in a stunning country house with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, it’s the perfect blend of gastronomy, elegance, and tranquillity.
-
La Colombe d'Or Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
Enjoy refined regional cuisine in an iconic setting featuring original works by Picasso, Matisse, Miró and more.
-
Le Cap Restaurant, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
Michelin-starred chef, Didier Anies, recognised as Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2000, has created a gourmet cuisine at this restaurant; one which is unfussy, full of flavour and low key yet elegant.
Events in [locality]
Saturday is market day and is a great opportunity to buy some local produce such as cheese, honey, olives and wine as well as various crafts that make lovely souvenirs.
Events in Nice
See all Events in Nice-
Beaulieu Classic Festival
The Beaulieu Classic Festival showcases both local and international talent set in the most mythical and enchanting surroundings on the French Riviera.
-
European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Nice, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
-
Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
-
Live music at the Opéra de Nice
The wonderful Opéra de Nice venue, on the Promenade des Anglais in the old town of Nice, hosts some of the best classical music concerts in the French Riviera.
-
'Un Festival C'est Trop Court' Short Film Festival
The festival is a much-anticipated event in the European cinematic calendar and has become a popular rendezvous for young creators.
-
Les Gourmand'Eze Gastronomic Festival, Eze
Three days with a packed programme of show cooking, workshops, tastings, conferences, amateur contests and a lot more.
Things to do in [locality]
The GR52 “Grande Randonée” hiking trail passes right through Saorge and climbs up to the monastery and into the mountains on the way to La Brigue.
There are various other routes offering endless possibilities and adventures in the Roya valley; routes are marked on the map IGN (1/25,000) #3841 OT "Vallée de la Roya", or look out for the many signposts around the village.
Saorge is home to Bendola, the biggest canyon in the Alpes Maritimes, where you can go abseiling down waterfalls and plunging into swirling torrents. Other local activities include mountain biking, rock climbing and trout fishing.
Things To Do in Nice
See all Things To Do in Nice-
One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
-
Road bike hire
This company is based in Nice and offers a wide range of road bikes.
-
Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
-
The Alps self-guided motorbike tour
A bike trip for advanced riders, where you can enjoy some of the most scenic roads of the French Alps.
-
Sunset Boat Trip
Enjoy a wonderful, peaceful and fume-free journey along the French Riviera on a solar powered motor boat with a professional skipper.
-
Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Nice
See all Cycling Routes in Nice-
Col de la Madone de Gorbio Cycle Route
When Lance Armstrong describes a training route as “mythical” you know it’s not going to be easy…
-
Aspremont Tourette Falicon Cycle Route
This half-day ride takes you on a panoramic tour via four of the region’s famous sixteen “perched villages” - ancient towns built high amongst the mountains of the Alpes-Maritime. There is a fair bit of climbing involved in this ride, 1500m over just under 60km, but there are also plenty of long flowing descents where you can drink in the magnificent views of mountains in one direction and sea in the other. The biggest climb is the first one up to Aspremont, so once you’ve nailed that you can relax and take the rest nice and easy.
-
La Grande Corniche Cycle Route
La Grande Corniche is one of the classic cycle routes of the Riviera and this ride takes you from the heart of Nice all the way to Menton on the Italian border and back.
-
Mont Lauze Cycle Route
This intense little loop packs quite a lot into a short ride, taking you up to the serenity of the high mountains and back down to the hustle of the seafront in just 30km.
-
-
Col de Vence Cycle Route
A challenging ride up a steep mountain pass to a summit of 963m, the Col de Vence is a classic cycling route of the Cote d’Azur. Starting from Nice along the Promenade des Anglais, follow the cycle path past the airport to Cagnes-Sur-Mer; you’ll know you’ve reached Cagnes-Sur-Mer when you come to a long stretch of seafront and a dangling rhinoceros (you’ll understand when you see it), turn right up Avenue General Leclerc - it’s the second road after the church.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Nice
See all Walking Routes in Nice-
Le Corbusier walk
Cap Martin is a rather exclusive peninsula between Monaco and Menton, which houses a number of large, discrete villas of the rich and famous. Happily, there is also a rather fabulous coastal walk around the headland which allows everyone to access the wonderful views of Monaco and the sea.
-
Hike from Nice along the Plateau St Michel
This is a fairly easy but rewarding hike starting from Eze-sur-Mer and finishing in Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, both villages are on the train and bus line.
-
Aspremont Mont Chauve Circuit
This circuit starts from Aspremont, one of the famous “perched villages” of the Cote d’Azur, and climbs up to Mont Chauve at 853m to give spectacular views of the Baie des Anges and the “collines”, or hills, surrounding Nice.
-
Hiking in the Var : Circuit du Serse
This half day scenic hike circles around the north side of Mont Vial, traversing a deep bowl in the Var Valley.
-
Sentier Littoral : Tour du Cap Ferrat
This easily accessible promenade starts at the Port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and finishes at Plage de Passable, taking you right around the peninsula of this beautiful coastline.
-
Villefranche Sur Mer to Cap de Nice
This rugged coastal footpath runs from Villefranche-Sur-Mer all the way to Nice, providing excellent views of the harbour and lots of opportunities for secluded swimming and sunbathing along the way.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Nice
See all Watersports in Nice-
Parasailing, Villefranche Sur Mer
Fly at 50 metres above the sea by yourself or with friends security attached, enjoy a spectacular view of the gorgeous Baie des Anges, mountains and surroundings.
-
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Paddleboarding along the coast is a fun for the whole family!
-
-
-
Nice Diving School
Nice Diving unveils to its clients the underwater marvels of the Mediterranean ocean along the shores of the Cote d'Azur.
-
Jet Evasion Watersports
Located on Carras beach in Nice, Jet Evasion rents licence-free jet skis & sea scooters.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Nice
See all Bars & Clubs in Nice-
Le Bar du Negresco
It is this eclectic and cosmopolitan atmosphere which makes it a place very "French Riviera".
-
Ma Nolans Restaurant, Vieux Nice
Ma Nolan’s, Vieux Nice has a large inviting terrace, high vaulted ceilings, authentic bar counters and wooden floors.
-
Snug & Cellar, Vieux Nice
An intimate pub with open mic and acoustic nights, a good atmosphere and happy hours!
-
Cave de la Tour
This local and friendly wine bar is the perfect place to stop for a midday snack or to try some of the local wines from the region.
-
Wayne's Bar
A vibrant pub in the heart of Nice's busy quarter, the Old Town. Popular with locals and tourists alike but especially the International crowd.
-
Shapko Bar
Originally set up by Russian jazz musician Dimitri Shapko, this venue plays host to local and international jazz, soul and R&B.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Nice
See all Villas in Nice-
Hsud0145 Villa
In the commune of Colomars, 10 km from the sea, in a residential area, beautiful villa on a plot of 1500m².
-
Hsud0083 Villa, Vence
Located in the town of Vence, in a quiet residential area, charming villa set in grounds of 3600 m². Private salt water swimming pool (10m x 5m – Depth 110/170 cm – Alarm), outdoor shower (hot water), pool house (barbecue, oven, gas hob), terrace with garden furniture, deckchairs and dining table. Parking for 4 cars. 2 km shops. Beach 12km.
-
Hsud0058 Villa, Saint Paul de Vence
In Vence, 5 km from Saint-Paul,, in a residential area, beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 1000m2.
-
Aurelia Villa, Vence
Just outside historic Vence and a short distance from magnificent Saint Paul de Vence, this beautiful and contemporary house on a generous private plot is very quietly located for exploring all the delights of this beautiful corner of the French Riviera. The villa is located in a beautiful natural setting with views of the mountains.
-
Roquette Villa, La Roquette-sur-Var
The villa in La Roquette-sur-Var has 4 bedrooms and has capacity for 8 people.
-
Hsud0081 Villa
In Nice, in the residential area of Saint Pancrace, beautiful villa situated on a plot of 1Ha in edge of forest of which 2000m ² done up.
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Nice
See all Holiday Rentals in Nice-
Hsud0145 Villa
In the commune of Colomars, 10 km from the sea, in a residential area, beautiful villa on a plot of 1500m².
-
Hsud0034 Villa, La Gaude
In the heart of the French Riviera, 10 km from the beach and 13 km from the airport, this villa is set in lush greenery and nature.
-
Roquette Villa, La Roquette-sur-Var
The villa in La Roquette-sur-Var has 4 bedrooms and has capacity for 8 people.
-
Hsud0058 Villa, Saint Paul de Vence
In Vence, 5 km from Saint-Paul,, in a residential area, beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 1000m2.
-
Hsud0081 Villa
In Nice, in the residential area of Saint Pancrace, beautiful villa situated on a plot of 1Ha in edge of forest of which 2000m ² done up.
-
Hsud0083 Villa, Vence
Located in the town of Vence, in a quiet residential area, charming villa set in grounds of 3600 m². Private salt water swimming pool (10m x 5m – Depth 110/170 cm – Alarm), outdoor shower (hot water), pool house (barbecue, oven, gas hob), terrace with garden furniture, deckchairs and dining table. Parking for 4 cars. 2 km shops. Beach 12km.
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Nice
See all Hotels in Nice-
Saint-Martin Spa & Chateau, Vence
Château Saint-Martin & Spa is a former 12th century Knights Templar Commandery with superb views over the sweep of the Côte d’Azur. A place of consummate natural beauty set in a 32 acre park, a high point on the French Riviera where sea and the mountains unite.
-
Le Palais de la Mediterranee Hotel
Located on the famous Promenade des Anglais, this contemporary hotel features a casino, an indoor & outdoor pool and spa facilities.
-
Exedra Hotel, Nice Centre
The 5-star Luxury Boscolo Exedra Nice is located in the centre of Nice, a few minutes from the old town, the boutiques of Place Masséna, the famous Promenade Des Anglais and the Conference Center.
Price: €3,992
-
La Reserve de Beaulieu Hotel
Classic French opulence with Mediterranean charm, all nestled between the mountains and the blue waters of the Riviera.
Price: €10,063
-
La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
La Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
-
Royal Riviera Hotel, Beaulieu sur Mer
This hotel has been entirely renovated, combining the historical ambience of its past, plus the modern conveniences of an international luxury hotel.
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
The most enjoyable way to get to Saorge is on the Train des Merveilles that runs daily from Nice to Cuneo, stopping at many villages along the way. The train stops at Fontan-Saorge, approximately 1km (downhill) from the village.
If you want to come by car you can follow the D2204 from Nice or the D2566 from Menton, both of which pass by Sospel.
Transfers for Nice
See all Transfers for Nice-
Private airport transfers
From the airport to the city centre, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
-
Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
-
Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
-
Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
-
Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
-
Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Nice
See all Property for Sale in Nice-
-
-
-
Villa for Sale
Located in the heart of the historic center of Nice, the Villa du Château de la Tour enjoys an exceptional location, just a 5-minute walk from the beach, restaurants, and the Museum of Fine Arts. This elegant townhouse stands out for its commanding position and rooftop terrace offering a pleasant view of the sea and the castle.
Price: €1,565,000
-
-