Along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline lies an array of scenic coastal hikes. Just outside Monaco, the trail between Carnolès Beach and the Monte-Carlo Country Club offers some of the most breathtaking sea views and unique perspectives of the Principality.
The hike is easily accessible for visitors and locals alike. My journey began in Carnolès, where it’s just a short walk from the train station to the beach. From there, I followed the coastline towards Monaco until reaching the clearly marked beginning of the trail.
From the outset, the hike offers uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean, with the path winding alongside the water. The first section is relatively flat, making for an enjoyable start that is suitable for families, casual hikers, and even dogs. Along the way, you’ll come across several small, secluded beaches, many of which are popular with locals looking to escape for a swim or simply relax by the sea.
Throughout the trail, you’ll also notice well-marked emergency posts displaying your location should you ever need assistance. They’re positioned at regular intervals along the route and provide an extra level of reassurance, particularly for those exploring the trail for the first time.
As the hike continues towards Monaco, the terrain gradually begins to change. The flat path shifts to more staircases and gentle inclines, but with each climb comes another beautiful viewpoint overlooking the sea. Despite the elevation, there are plenty of shaded sections beneath the trees, along with benches where you can stop, rest, and enjoy the scenery. During the summer months, however, the hike can become quite hot, so bringing plenty of water is essential.
One of the standout points along the trail is passing Villa Cypris, built in 1904. Although only visible from the outside, the historic villa is known for its Neo-Byzantine architecture, terraced gardens, and stunning views overlooking the Mediterranean.
Additionally, there are several opportunities to shorten the hike if needed. Roquebrune-Cap-Martin train station is located just a short distance from the trail, making it easy to end your walk early. There are also plenty of beaches along the way should you decide to stop for a swim before continuing.
As you begin to approach Monaco, you’ll cross two footbridges suspended above the sea. While they’re perfectly safe, they may feel a little intimidating for anyone with a fear of heights. Shortly afterwards, the trail reaches the Monte-Carlo Country Club, where it’s just a short walk into Monaco. From there, you can head to Larvotto Beach, grab a bite to eat, or stop for a coffee before making your way home.
Although this isn’t a particularly difficult hike, it’s worth being prepared for the number of stairs. Much of the route involves climbing before descending again, so the elevation can add up over the course of the walk. If you’re bringing your dog, it’s also important to keep the temperature in mind. The trail is popular with dog owners, but during the warmer months the pavement can become extremely hot, and there are a few sections lined with cacti and other plants that are worth watching out for. Dog boots may also be worth considering on especially hot days.
Having completed the route, it’s easy to see why this has become one of my favourite hikes on the French Riviera. Between the incredible coastal scenery, hidden beaches, and rewarding views along the way, it strikes the perfect balance of being challenging enough to feel accomplished without being overly strenuous. Whether you’re visiting Monaco or live nearby, it’s a hike well worth adding to your list.
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Photo credits: Kayla Sauceda / Monaco Life