Valley of the Roya
The train de merveilles from Nice is one of the most scenic railway routes in Europe. Everyday from 1 June to 30 September, and every weekend until the end of October, there is a professional guide on board. You can sit back and watch the amazing scenery as you listen all about the local history, the villages along the way and how this extraordinary railway line, including helicoidal tunnels, was built. Although you can stop off at any of the villages, it is probably worthwhile going all the way to Tende to hear the full commentary. In July and August there is a bus from Tende to Casterino, gateway to the Mercantour national park - famous for its Bronze Age rock drawings. At the Tende tourist office you can pick up information and enjoy your own tour of the town and stop off for lunch. Miramonti restaurant has a train de merveilles special - show your train ticket - for 17€. Don't forget to pop in to a local deli to buy a delicious cheese called tomme de Tende.
If on a day trip buy a carte Isabelle (1 June-30 September) for 12
€ at Cannes station and you can travel as far as Tende. It is best to book your seats as the train can get very busy in summer.
The 9.05am from Nice arrives 10.49am at Tende.
Do ensure when boarding the train in either direction that it does not go via Ventimiglia in Italy or you will have to change trains. Return trains leave at 5.22pm and 6.35pm. Do pick up a train timetable though!