Menton

The morning starts sheltered within the grand Basilica and the Chapel, where baroque art provides a warm refuge from the rain. By midday, the Old Cemetery takes on a mystical atmosphere; the views are dramatic, but the wet stone steps require caution. Spend the afternoon indoors at the Jean Cocteau Museum, a perfect modern sanctuary filled with light and art. Evening concludes at the Palais de l'Europe, offering a dry and culturally rich environment to end the day.

The winter morning in Menton is mild and clear, perfect for climbing to the Basilica under the gentle January sun. At midday, the Old Cemetery offers a wide view of the snow-capped Maritime Alps in the background. In the afternoon, the Biovès Gardens glow with the yellow of lemons, while the Jean Cocteau Museum provides a warm escape. Evening arrives early with festive lights at the Palais de l'Europe and a crisp, refreshing sea breeze.

Menton is the city of gardens, and by bike, even the most distant oases are reachable. After the Biovès Gardens, we cycle along the sea to the Cocteau Museum and discover the botanical rarities of Val Rahmeh. The highlight is Serre de la Madone, where we can admire Lawrence Johnston's famous horticultural legacy.

The start at Biovès Gardens is damp, but the palm avenues offer some shelter during the first stop. By midday, we reach the Jean Cocteau Museum, where bikes can be securely parked while we take a dry break. The afternoon leads to Val Rahmeh, where the rain brings out an intense fragrance from the exotic plants. The tour ends at Serre de la Madone; the rainy ride through the hills is challenging, but the lush greenery compensates for the effort.

A clear winter day begins at Biovès Gardens, where the crisp air makes the ride refreshing. At midday, we pedal along the sea towards the Cocteau Museum, as the low winter sun makes the water sparkle. The afternoon climb to Val Rahmeh keeps us warm in the mild winter air. We finish at Serre de la Madone; the return ride takes place in the golden light of the early twilight.

By car, we comfortably explore the treasures in the higher parts of Menton. After the cemetery's panorama and the basilica's Baroque splendor, we head towards the Garavan district to visit Val Rahmeh. The afternoon is spent in the magical Serre de la Madone garden, slightly outside the town.

We start comfortably by car at the Old Cemetery, enjoying the view from the dry interior. At midday, we park close to the Basilica to quickly cover the short distance to the entrance. In the afternoon, we drive to Val Rahmeh; the wipers reveal the tropical splendor of the garden. The day ends relaxedly at Serre de la Madone; the winding roads require full concentration in the rain.

A sunny winter morning begins with the drive up to the Old Castle, with the heater ensuring comfort. At midday, we reach the Basilica; the low winter sun perfectly illuminates the baroque facade. In the afternoon, we head to Val Rahmeh; finding a parking spot is much more relaxed in winter than in summer. The day ends at Serre de la Madone; enjoy the return drive in the light of the blue hour along the coast.