Discover Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the jewel of the Côte d'Azur, and its many tourist attractions in this detailed article. Located between Monaco and Menton, this charming French commune is packed with treasures to explore. Whether you're a lover of beaches, hiking, historical heritage or sumptuous gardens, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin has it all. So, what's there to do in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin? Here are our top suggestions for a successful stay.
1. Visit the thousand-year-old olive tree
It's impossible to visit Roquebrune-Cap-Martin without admiring its thousand-year-old olive tree, a true symbol ofone of the most beautiful villages in the South of France. Located in the Parc des Oliviers, this majestic tree is over 1,000 years old and impresses with its imposing size and tortuous silhouette. Listed as a natural monument, the thousand-year-old olive tree is a living witness to the history of the region and the importance of the olive tree in Mediterranean culture. Take a stroll through the park, and you'll discover other hundred-year-old olive trees, as well as plant species typical of the region.
2. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old village
Perched on a rocky spur, this picturesque district offers a picture-postcard backdrop of stone houses, cobbled streets and vaulted passageways. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you'll discover many architectural treasures, including the Saint-Sauveur chapel, the Grimaldi castle and the medieval tower. The old village is also a lively place, with artisan boutiques, art galleries and typical restaurants. Don't forget to stop off at Place des Deux Frères for a breathtaking view of the sea and coastline. An unforgettable stroll throughone of France's most beautiful medieval villages.
3. Visit Roquebrune-Cap-Martin castle
Built in the 10th century on a rocky promontory, this medieval castle was the residence of the Grimaldis for over five centuries. Today, it houses a museum retracing the history of the town and its lords, as well as temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. A tour of the castle takes in the great hall of the castle, the guards' hall, the food store, the prisons and the archers' dormitory. On the third floor, the seigneurial residence, the noble floor of the château, is also worth a visit. And don't miss a walk on the artillery platform , which offers an exceptional view of the sea and the surrounding mountains of the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region.
4. Sunbathing on Plage du Buse
If you're looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, Plage du Buse is the place for you. Located to the west of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, this pebble beach offers an idyllic setting with its crystal-clear waters and exceptional panorama over the Bay of Monaco. Plage du Buse is also renowned for its rich and varied seabed, making it a popular spot for scuba diving. At the end of the day, don't hesitate to linger on the beach to admire the sunset over the sea, a magical and unforgettable spectacle from one of the most beautiful beaches in France and on the Côte d'Azur.
5. See Le Corbusier's Cabanon, a UNESCO World Heritage site
For architecture and design enthusiasts, a visit to Le Corbusier's cabanon is a must in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Designed in 1952 by the famous Swiss architect and listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site, this small 15 m² cabanon is a veritable manifesto of minimalist architecture. Situated on the seafront, the cabanon served as a holiday home for Le Corbusier and his wife for over ten years. Today, you can visit this place steeped in history by booking a guided tour. Tours are organized four times a day in French or English and last around two hours.
6. Visit Fort du Cap Martin
Built in the 19th century to protect the coast from invasion, this military fort on the Maginot line was attacked during the war, and offers a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean. A titanic renovation project has already been completed. Today, 2 of the 3 blocks can be visited, thanks to enthusiastic volunteers who, dressed in period costume, organize exceptional guided tours to give you an insight into life in a bunker during the war. Filled with history and memories, this place is simply exceptional and helps us to remember our past.
Do you like history? Also discover the 15 most beautiful villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region
7. Stroll along the Promenade Le Corbusier
Cap Martin is home to an exceptional coastal path, also known as the Sentier des douaniers or the Promenade Le Corbusier. This 4.7-kilometer one-way hike links the Carnolès and Cabbé districts and is accessible to all, including families with children. It's an opportunity to admire the rich and varied Mediterranean flora and fauna, from pebble beaches to wild rocks and fragrant pine groves. The walk is pleasant in all seasons and offers spectacular coastal scenery, with turquoise waters and shady pine forests .
Discover our Top 11 hikes in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur.
8. Visit Villa E-1027 by Eileen Gray
This magnificent seaside residence, listed as a Monument Historique since 2000, is now open to the public. It is a modern icon in its own right, having belonged to decorator and architect Eileen Gray and Jean Badovici. Built in 1929, the building combines modernity with the science of climatic comfort. Its name is a code for its owners: E for Eileen, 10 for Jean's J, 2 for Badovici's B and 7 for Gray's G. The interior features superb frescoes by Le Corbusier. A must-see for lovers of architecture and history.
Where to stay in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin?
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are a few suggestions to help you choose the ideal place for your stay:
- For a luxurious stay, theHotel Monte-Carlo Beach is an excellent option. Located just a few minutes from Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, this 5-star hotel is a timeless landmark, offering spacious, elegant rooms, a private beach and a spa in the spirit of 1930s romance. Click here to book your stay!
- For a romantic getaway, Le Roquebrune hotel isthe ideal choice. Located in downtown Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, it offers comfortable rooms with breathtaking views and terraces facing the Mediterranean, which you can book right here.
Tempted? Take a look at our train ticket prices and book now!
