Leaving the coast and climbing into the hills reveals another side of the Menton area: narrow lanes, stone architecture, borderland history and views between sea and mountain.
MENTON · ALPES-MARITIMES · HINTERLANDAt around 780 metres above sea level, Sainte-Agnès is listed among the Plus Beaux Villages de France and is described as Europe’s highest coastal village. Its lanes lead to the castle remains and medieval garden; Fort de Sainte-Agnès, part of the Maginot Line, tells the story of the border’s military history.
Overlooked by Mont Agel, Gorbio has retained a compact old centre of stone houses and lanes. Its famous elm stands in the village square and has become one of its landmarks; Saint-Barthélemy church is known for its trompe-l’œil painted façade.
Perched on a rocky spur overlooking Menton and Garavan Bay, Castellar preserves narrow lanes, vaulted passages and yellow-orange façades. Once a fief of the Lascaris-Vintimille family, it offers views of the sea and of trails climbing into the hills.
