Nice and the Mountains: A Refreshing Escape
Nice is a beautiful and vibrant city; however, during the summer it can be packed with tourists from all over the world—especially in the busiest and hottest months of July and August. If you’re looking to relax and escape the heat, why not head to the mountains?
After a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Nice, you’ll arrive in the stunning French Alps. There’s also a bus from Nice if you don’t feel comfortable driving the winding mountain roads. Along the way, you’ll pass through several small villages, but my recent favorite is La Colmiane—a picturesque ski village that makes for a perfect weekend escape.
Don’t be fooled by its size; there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from in both summer and winter. In winter, of course, you’ll find skiing, snowboarding, and trails for cross-country skiing. But if you visit in summer, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Adrenaline Seekers
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, you’ve come to the right place. For incredible views, you can go paragliding from the mountaintops for a bird’s-eye view, or zipline above the trees. The La Colmiane Zipline is made up of two lines (2,667 m in total) where you can reach speeds of up to 130 km/h! You’ll be in a superman pose the entire time to reach optimum speed—and it’s one of the few ziplines that also runs in winter.
During the summer months, you can also try the summer toboggan, which feels more like a roller coaster with brakes. You take a chairlift to the top of the mountain, then ride down in a small car attached to a rail track. At 1,670 m long with a 400 m drop and 22 turns, you can reach speeds of up to 42 km/h—it’s quite the adrenaline rush!
Those looking to challenge themselves can take on the Via Ferrata mountain route. These trails are made up of ladders, cables, and bridges that take you on an adventurous journey through the forest, offering panoramic views and an unforgettable experience. This activity is perfect for those who enjoy climbing and hiking—and who don’t have a serious fear of heights.
Relaxing Activities
For more relaxing activities, you can explore the various hiking and mountain trails throughout the area, with beautiful lakes, wildlife, and stunning views along the way. These trails are great for all ages—just check the maps to find those suitable for your activity level.
Another great option is a guided horseback riding tour through the mountains. A short drive down the mountain brings you to La Ferme du Mercantour, where you can visit the animals and tour the farm. Depending on your skill level, you can book a full-day horse adventure or an hour-long ride. It’s also a great spot for kids, as they have ponies available for younger riders.
If you’d like to relax even more, head to Valdeblore Piscine, just a 20-minute drive from La Colmiane. Here you’ll find lap pools, a paddling pool, a sauna, and a solarium. Whether you’re looking for a family activity, a place to unwind, or something to do on a rainy day, this indoor pool is a great choice. There’s even a retractable roof for those beautiful sunny days.
Family Friendly
A mountain escape is a wonderful idea, especially if you’re traveling with kids. La Colmiane offers plenty of open space and activities to keep them busy. A classic family activity is mini-golf—an 18-hole outdoor course that will challenge all skill levels. Some holes can be quite tricky, but it’s always good fun and full of laughter.
Another great activity is the Treetop Adventure Course, where you move from tree to tree via ziplines, bridges, and other challenging obstacles. You’re securely attached to a cable system the entire time, and there are different courses based on age and difficulty level. Children aged 3–5 (at least 1 m tall) can take part with adult supervision.
What to Do Nearby
If you want to explore beyond La Colmiane, check out Alpha Park, just a 15-minute drive away. It’s the only animal park located within a national park, allowing visitors to observe wolves from a safe distance while learning more about these incredible animals along protected trails. Across from the park, you’ll find an outdoor climbing wall that’s fun for all ages—see if you can make it to the top!
Continue past Alpha Park and you’ll reach Restaurant L’Alpage, surrounded by beautiful mountains and hiking trails. The restaurant serves delicious, home-style food with incredible views. Be sure to book a table in advance—they often fill up quickly. If you wander a bit up the hill, you’ll come across a fromagerie selling fresh mountain cheeses—you might even meet the cows!
Surrounding Villages to Visit
As you drive through the mountains, you’ll come across various small villages—some with just a few buildings and others larger and more charming, like Saint-Martin-Vésubie. Unfortunately, in October 2020, the area suffered a major flash flood that destroyed many homes and roads. Since then, the town has worked tirelessly to rebuild and restore the area.
If you’re in the region, be sure to visit Saint-Martin-Vésubie, a colorful medieval village surrounded by picturesque mountains and tranquil lakes. In the town center, you’ll find charming shops, cafés, and bakeries to explore. For food lovers, don’t miss the local fromageries, where you can sample unique mountain cheeses rarely found in regular grocery stores.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to escape the summer heat of Nice or enjoy a weekend getaway, La Colmiane is a fantastic choice. Just a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Nice, you’ll be surrounded by nature and fresh mountain air.
With plenty of activities to choose from and countless trails to explore, there’s something for everyone—whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family trip, or simply a peaceful escape.