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Nice Côte d'Azur isn't just about the sea... Did you know that the hinterland is packed with small mountain villages, at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park? Today, we're taking you to discover two of them (Saint Dalmas and La Colmiane) over two days, the perfect length of time to enjoy a breath of fresh air in the middle of summer, just a stone's throw from the sea! And what's more, you don't need a car. So follow the guide.
From the Nice Saint Augustin bus station, you can take the Vesubie summer bus organized by the Nice metropolitan authority. This shuttle runs from July 5 to August 31, as well as on the weekends of September 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21, 2025. In just two hours, it takes you into the hinterland of Nice, offering you a completely different backdrop along the way.
For this micro-adventure, you can stop at Saint-Dalmas, a small village in the Tinée valley, combining historical heritage, nature activities and breathtaking panoramas. Find out more about the Vésubie Summer Shuttle here.
When you arrive in Saint Dalmas, you can start right away with an activity that combines challenging yourself and meeting new people: a hike with Les Ânes de Blore. On site, you'll be welcomed by Indiana, who offers independent rides with one or more of his 21 donkeys. There are several possible durations, from 1h30 to several days.
Photo : Églantine, alias @_tinadventures_
You'll be able to take either a 1h30 or a 4h walk, the perfect length for a first approach to the donkey and to get used to it.
After this stroll, a little break is in order! And for that, we've found the perfect place for you: the Boulangerie du Terroir, located on the village's main square. It offers Niçoise specialities and delicious home-made viennoiseries.
Photo : Églantine, alias @_tinadventures_
In the afternoon, we offer you a unique exploration game to discover Saint Dalmas in a fun way. Armed with your My Adventure bag and your mobile phone, you'll set off to discover several of the village's key places, using puzzles and observation to learn more about its history and traditions.
Photo : Églantine, alias @_tinadventures_
After a busy day in Saint-Dalmas, you can take the Eté Vésubie bus in the opposite direction, this time stopping one stop further on at La Colmiane. It's here, at the foot of this winter and summer resort, that you'll spend the night.
We suggest you stay at the Green Ecolodge, a small hotel located at the foot of the chairlift. This hotel has preserved its mountain charm, while combining an eco-responsible dimension with recycled materials, solar energy and organic and local products.
Photo : Églantine, alias @_tinadventures_
In fact, you can dine directly at the hotel, enjoying delicious home-cooked meals.
On this second day, it's time to discover La Colmiane and its summer activities. Did you know that the village boasts the longest zip line in France? Yes, you did! By taking the chairlift just below the Green Ecolodge, you can try your hand at this famous zip line made up of two sections, both of which offer breathtaking views.
You can also try out the summer toboggan run, which is 1,670 metres long and has a 400-metre vertical drop. Thrills guaranteed!
Photo : Églantine, alias @_tinadventures_
Once you've had your fill of adrenalin, you can't say no to a comforting mountain meal. Visit Chez Frankie, where you'll find a wide selection of pizzas and tasty dishes.
And so, after this beautiful micro-adventure in the mountains of the Nice Côte d'Azur, it's time to head back down to Nice. You can take the same shuttle bus as on the outward journey (the Eté Vésubie shuttle in the opposite direction)!
So, would you like to give it a try? Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll with a donkey or the thrills of a zip-line, these two days in the hinterland of Nice promise you a breath of fresh air and some great discoveries. All less than two hours from the sea, and without a car! Just goes to show, you don't have to go far to enjoy a great getaway.
This article was written in partnership with Nice Côté d'Azur. To find out more, visit the official Toursit Office website!
Églantine est créatrice de contenu voyage depuis 3 ans sur Instagram et TikTok (@tinadventures). Passionnée par l'organisation de voyages et le tourisme durable, elle aime mêler les deux dans ses contenus et ses aventures. Partisane du slow travel, elle a un faible particulier pour les voyages itinérants en train.
