Walks within reach of Nice - 1. Cap d'Antibes

A drive around the Cap d'Antibes provides wonderful views of the med and, on the eastern side, views of the ramparts of Antibes. However, the drive cuts across the apex of the cap and the rugged coast cannot be seen by car. Take the time to get out of your car and walk around the cap to be rewarded with beautiful views of the med and to get a better feel of the coast.

The walk starts at at plage de la homonyme where there is plenty of parking. The walk hugs the coast with the walls of the large villas on the one side and the water on the other. The path is well maintained and is easy, although be warned that the path follows the up and down of the rocks so there are many steps both up and down.

We did the walk on a sunny, calm November Sunday. The deep blue of the Mediterranean sea contrasted nicely with the white limestone rocks worn away by the force of the sea, although on this day it was hard to believe that the sea could be dangerous!

I would not recommend this when the mistral is blowing as the sea can be very rough and some of the path was very close to the water. Be sure to take some water on hot days as the walk takes about an hour and a half and there are no refreshements available.

November in Nice

November is the low season for holiday rentals in Nice. However, it is a good time to visit as the crowds are gone and you can still enjoy all the amenities that Nice has to offer as, unlike many holiday destinations, Nice stays open all year round. The heat is over, and although the nights are getting colder, the day time temperatures are still in the low 20s - which is great for walking around, having an alfreso lunch and exploring the area. Today has been 22oC and the forecast is the same for the next couple of days.

Now that the summer heat haze has disappeared, the days are brilliant and clear, giving good uninterrupted views of the cote d'zure or the hills that surround Nice.

I advise a trip up to the top of Mont Born where the panorama is breath taking. You will be able to see out to Cap d'Antibes on one side and over Cap Ferat towards Monaco on the other.

Access is easy, take the number 14 bus from the city centre to the terminus on Mont Boron. The ride gives you some breath taking views of the surrounding mountains that are already snow topped. There is an easy walk at the top with good view points all around. Oh! and don't forget your camera.