Beautiful nature and amazing hikes in South of France Mercantour National Park

Mercantour National Park is within an hour’s drive from French Riviera. Many tourists visit South France every year and mostly enjoy famous places such as Cannes, Antibes, Nice etc. However, many do not know they can escape the busy coast and enjoy the great nature in the nearby mountains.

Cote d’Azur official page has a lot of resources about the Mercantour National Park. This site is an excellent resource for all things to do and see in this Mediterranean region. You can read about hikes, refuges and wildlife in the park.

Checking the map before the hike is a good idea

Hiking is the main activity in this park. There are many trails for various travels. Here is a suggestion for one day or two-day trip, depending if you want to spend a night in the Mountains in the refuge.

Mountain landscape and lake Trecolpas in Mercantour National Park

First, drive to the village of Boreon – about 75km from Nice. Then drive along the main road Le Boreon in the direction of the restaurant L’alplage. You will find a gravel parking lot there to leave a vehicle.

The hiking trail map, and information are shown on a special stand. The hiking trail also starts there and is well-marked.

Refuge Cougourde – a place to stay in the Mercantour National Park

Steep hiking path to the twin lakes Bessons in French Alps

Mercantour National Park has many places to stay overnight called refuges. You can find references on Cote d’Azur website.

French Federation of Alpine Clubs also offers a list of shelters you can book. These hostels have limited facilities and bedrooms are shared. Usually, you can get meals and when the weather is warm, you can get a shower.

Rocky shores of the mountain lakes Bessons

Challenging climb at the hiking trail in Mercantour Park, France

What: Mountain hiking Where: Mercantour National Park When: Picture story was taken in September

Suggestions: 1. Take a paper map as mobile coverage is problematic. 2. Good footwear is essential because of the rough terrain and streams. 3. Use the mountain guide if you are not sure of your navigation skills.