A Journey Through Time: L’Escarène and Sospel

The day began with a gentle drive through the rolling hills of the French Riviera, a landscape that seemed to whisper secrets of the past. Our first stop was the quaint village of L’Escarène, a place where time appears to have paused, allowing the beauty of its history to linger in the air. As I sipped a perfectly brewed espresso at a local café, the view of the Viaduct, an architectural marvel from 1928, captured my imagination. The stone arches stood proudly against the azure sky, a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The journey continued through the serpentine roads of Col de Braus, a route that twisted and turned like a graceful dancer. Each bend revealed a new vista, a tapestry of lush greenery and rugged mountain peaks. Arriving in Sospel, I was greeted by the charming Old Bridge, a relic from 1823 that spans the gentle river below. The village itself, with its cobblestone streets and the Roman Catholic Saint Michel Cathedral, offered a serene escape from the modern world. Here, I felt the pulse of history in every stone, every shadow.

The Coastal Elegance of Menton

Leaving the mountains behind, we descended towards the coast, where the vibrant town of Menton awaited. Known as the pearl of France, Menton is a kaleidoscope of colors, with its pastel-hued buildings and fragrant lemon groves. As a lover of culinary delights, I was drawn to the local markets, where the scent of fresh produce mingled with the salty sea breeze. A leisurely lunch at a seaside bistro offered a taste of the region’s famed citrus, a burst of sunshine on the palate.

Menton’s charm lies not only in its beauty but in its ability to transport you to a simpler time. Wandering through its narrow streets, I discovered hidden gardens and quaint shops, each offering a glimpse into the soul of this enchanting town. The gentle lapping of the waves against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack to my exploration, a reminder of the timeless allure of the Mediterranean.

Eze: The Eagle’s Nest

The final leg of our journey took us to the medieval village of Eze, perched high above the sea like an eagle’s nest. The ascent to Eze was a journey in itself, with the Moyenne Corniche offering breathtaking views of the coastline, where the mountains meet the sea in a dramatic embrace. Eze is a place of wonder, with its narrow alleys and exotic gardens that seem to defy gravity.

At the top, the view of the Rade de Villefranche and Cap Ferrat was nothing short of spectacular. The azure waters stretched out before me, a canvas of endless possibilities. As I wandered through the village, I was captivated by the artistry of the local craftsmen, whose creations reflected the spirit of this magical place.

This full-day private tour was more than a journey through the French Riviera and Alps; it was a journey through the senses, a celebration of the beauty and history that define this remarkable region. Each moment was a reminder of why I am drawn to this part of the world, where every corner holds a story waiting to be told.