Chateau de Sainte-Agnes
A short walk with great views of the coast around Menton
Perched high up on the rocks above Menton this lovely village offers great views and classic mediterranean architecture.
The village of Sainte-Agnes used to protect the Franco-Italian border on the Maginot line and was a coveted military site for many years. Today however, the village rewards visitors seeking authenticity with narrow paved streets and its unobstructed view of the coastline near Menton.
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What to bring
IGN map 3742OT is recommended for this walk.
What to see
Sights in Monaco
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Chapelle des Penitents Blancs, Menton
This chapel belonged to the White Penitents, Catholic laymen living under a common rule. It was built between 1680 and 1687 on land outside the city's walls.
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Saint Michel Basilica, Menton
The first stone of the Saint Michel basilica in Menton was set in 1619, but it was not finished until 1653, and consecrated in 1675. Located in the old town, it boasts a beautiful Baroque style.
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Musee Jean Cocteau, Menton
This gallery is dedicated to the French writer, artist and filmmaker Jean Cocteau but also host a number of exhibitions by various other artists.
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Bastion Museum, Menton
The bastion was built in the 17th century by Honoré II, Prince of Monaco, as a fort to defend the entrance to Menton. It now exhibits artwork by Jean Cocteau.
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Nouveau Musee National de Monaco
The new national museum of Monaco is housed in two villas, the Villa Sauber and the Villa Paloma. The Villa Sauber is one of the last Belle Epoque villas in Monaco and is dedicated to art and performance. The Villa Paloma was built in the early 20th century and is dedicated to art and territory.
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Jardin Japonais (Japanese Gardens)
Fulfilling Princess Grace of Monaco's desire to have a Japanese garden in Monaco, this spectacular space is enjoyed by thousands of people each year.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Monaco
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La Maree Restaurant
'Fish chic' restaurant in Port Hercule that is located on the sixth floor of the Port Palace Hotel, overlooking the marina.
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La Chevre d'Or Restaurant, Eze
This gourmet restaurant offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean and gained two Michelin stars in 2011.
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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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.
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Restaurant des Rois, Beaulieu Sur Mer
The jewel in the crown of La Réserve de Beaulieu hotel is this gastronomic restaurant which has one Michelin star.
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Nobu Restaurant
Recognized worldwide for his amazing cuisine, mixing traditional Japanese dishes and South American spices and aromas.
What to do
Things To Do in Monaco
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Motorbike hire
Based in Menton, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Luxury Tayarrah Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Menton and offers a range of road bikes.
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Luxury A4A Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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.
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Luxury SMILE Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Directions
This walk starts in the hamlet of Colline. The path starts near the local bins at the crossroads. There are yellow paint splashes to mark the way but they are few and far between. but the path follows the raod east along the Col des Olives. At the bins the path veers off to the left. The path meets a concrete road, take this right to contour around the hillside. The road becomes gated though there is a thoroughfare on the right, Keep to this road through Viraron.
There are properties either side, follow the road to the right. In front of you there is a big yellow house. The path goes down the side of this house. The path contours and climbs back up amongst some houses. Keep to the road and you will eventually come to a green steel barrier. Here the road becomes a track, cross the river keeping the cascade to your left and the path starts to climb rapidly. As the path starts to level out you meet the GR51, outside the La Virette ruins. From here take a left and follow the red and white GR markers.
Keeping to the path you cross the river to the other side of the valley. The path continues to the col before the village, from here you take a detour into the village and up to the Chateau. The descent takes you back to the col before the village and just off the first road descending down the valley the path continues taking you behind the school. The path is easy to follow on the way back, crossing the road twice. The first time, turn left and follow the road for a few hundred meters then turn down right. The second time, turn right along the road for a short distance then take the path on the left to return to the starting point.
