6 car-free hikes to discover around Nice

Written by Eglantine Chavanne

Published on July 29, 2025

When you think of Nice, the first things that come to mind are the sea, palm trees, and the famous Promenade des Anglais. But what many don’t know is that nature is just around the corner — and it’s totally possible to escape for a day or even half a day without a car. Here’s our selection of hikes accessible by bus or shuttle, so you can get a breath of fresh air while leaving your car keys at home!

1. Lou Camin Nissart: a walking tour of Nice

Want to explore all of Nice without ever getting bored? Lou Camin Nissart is a regional hiking trail (GR de Pays) that takes you through the hills, small villages, forests, and scenic viewpoints — always with the sea in the background.

Lou Camin Nissart - © Agence Media H265

The best part? You can walk just one stage or several in a row, and every section is accessible by public transport. It’s an urban yet nature-filled micro-adventure — the perfect way to get into hiking without leaving the city.

2. Baou des Blancs in Vence: guaranteed views

This is our top pick for a 360° view. The Baou des Blancs is a limestone peak just above Vence. In about two hours, you’ll reach the summit cross and discover a breathtaking view over the French Riviera, from the Estérel to Italy.
You can get there by taking bus line 9 from Nice to Vence.

Le Baou de Vence - © J.Kelagopian

3. La Gaude loop trail: Mediterranean vibes and scenic views

Less well-known, this trail starting from the village of La Gaude is perfect for an easy and accessible hike. You’ll wander through olive trees, Mediterranean scents, and stunning views over the Var Valley.
The trail forms a loop, with a few slightly technical sections — but nothing too challenging. Plan for about 2 hours in total. You can get there by taking bus line 55 from Nice.

4. Mont Chauve from Aspremont: for ridge lovers

Craving more elevation and exercise? Head up to Mont Chauve d’Aspremont! This panoramic hike starts in the perched village and gradually climbs toward a symbolic summit.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Bay of Nice, the hills, and the mountains. The round trip takes about 3 hours.
Get there by taking bus line 62 or 76 to Aspremont.

5. Fort de la Revère: walking between sky and sea

From the Plateau de la Grande Corniche above Èze, this loop around Fort de la Revère is a real breath of fresh air. The view is spectacular over the Mediterranean and the coastal cliffs.

View from Fort de la Revère - © P. Masson

The path is well-marked and accessible to all. The loop takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.Take bus line 82 to Plateau de la Justice to get there.

6. The great lakes of Mercantour: your high-altitude escape

Looking to go even further? Thanks to the summer shuttles, you can reach the Vésubie and Gordolasque valleys from Nice — no car needed.

Mercantour - © Zoom dans l'oeil de Fab

Here are a few must-do hikes in summer:

• Lac Nègre: a wild, mineral atmosphere (full hike details here)
• Lac de Trécolpas: dip your toes in crystal-clear water (full hike details here)
• Lac Autier or Lac Niré: in the pristine Gordolasque valley

This article was written in partnership with Nice Côté d'Azur. To find out more, visit the official Toursit Office website!