This monumental 72.2 km journey connects the Riviera balconies to the pine forests of the Grasse region in approximately 20 hours of walking. Starting from the Sainte-Marguerite church in Roquebrune, the pilgrim ascends facing the sea before passing through La Turbie and its Trophy of Augustus, then descending into the medieval streets of Èze and the sacred heritage of Nice. The trail then winds through hills and olive groves, reaching perched villages like Saint-Paul-de-Vence before ending gently at the Valbonne Abbey. With an ascent of 2780m and a descent of 2772m, this route offers a spiritual immersion between Mediterranean azure and the scents of the garrigue.
This section is classified as difficult due to the cumulative 2780m of elevation gain and the length of the stages over three days. Technical descents on stony paths, particularly towards Èze, put significant strain on the knees, while sun exposure on the ridges requires excellent hydration management.
Don't forget to get your credential stamped at Saint-Jean-Baptiste church in Nice. Plan a stop at Valbonne Abbey at the end of the journey for a moment of reflection and take advantage of the many drinking water fountains in the hilltop villages.