This major 54.7 km journey through the heart of the French Riviera invites you on a spiritual immersion between sea and mountains, featuring 1,935m of ascent and 2,222m of descent. Leaving Cap-d'Ail, the path climbs steeply towards the balconies of the Mediterranean, offering breathtaking views from the Grande Corniche before descending into the historic streets of Èze and Nice. Pilgrims traverse the city of Nice to reach hills planted with vineyards and olive groves, passing sacred sites such as the Church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur. The route then winds through the Provençal countryside and the scents of the scrubland before reaching the glass-making village of Biot. This demanding three-day section combines the glamour of the Côte d'Azur with the serenity of ancient forest trails.
The effort is significant with nearly 2,000m of cumulative elevation gain, particularly when crossing the steep coastal ridges. The urban crossing of Nice can be tiring for the feet due to the asphalt, while the inland trails feature rocky and slippery areas in rainy weather.
Be sure to have your credential stamped at the Sainte-Réparate Cathedral in Nice, an essential stop on the path. Carry sufficient water for the climb to the Plateau de la Justice and prefer an early morning start to avoid the heat on the south-facing slopes.