Most famous for the glitzy Côte d'Azur, the Alpes-Maritimes départment also boasts charming mountain villages and superb ski slopes. For those eager to immerse themselves in the tranquil majesty of the hills, our Gurus have put together a selection of off-the-beaten-track properties. If it’s hiking, cycling and skiing that you’re after, these really are the best places to stay in the Alpes-Maritimes.
Part of the Western Alps, this region has a long history — which includes being part of Italy. As a result, visitors can expect a warm and welcoming Italian influence when it comes to the culture, food and architecture of the area’s communities. The ski resorts of Isola 2000, Valberg and Auron are winter holiday favourites for active travellers of all ages, whilst the rocky, forested mountains offer superb biking, trekking, horse riding and rock climbing during the warmer months. Don't miss the Mercantour National Park if you're in the area!
For a flavour of both the mountains and the coast, consider staying somewhere to the south — like Saint-Paul-de-Vence or Le Bar-sur-Loup, close to the dramatic Loup Gorge. Although further from the coast, the best places to stay in the Alpes-Maritimes are perfect for outdoorsy types eager to soak up the magic of the mountains in a less-explored part of France.