Highlights of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

With a wealth of historic sites and natural beauty, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin offers something for every type of traveler.

Roquebrune Medieval Village

The heart of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is a medieval village located on Mont Angers. The winding narrow streets, colorful houses, and vaulted passageways are a joy to explore on foot. The village seems to have stood still in time, and one cannot help but be enchanted by its quiet beauty.

The most prominent feature of the village is the Château de Roquebrune. Built in the 10th century to defend against invaders, this medieval castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast. It is one of the oldest and most emblematic buildings in the region.

• Address: Roquebrune Castle, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
• Ticket price: Adults €5, children under 6 free

Sainte-Marguerite Church

Another must-see in the medieval village is the Church of Sainte-Marguerite (Église Sainte-Marguerite). This church dates back to the 12th century and has been renovated many times over the years, resulting in a magnificent baroque facade. The interior is decorated with beautiful paintings, and there is a frescoed ceiling above the altar; don’t miss the 19th-century copy of Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment”.

Old Olive Trees

For nature lovers, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is home to the oldest olive trees in France. Located just 300 meters from the village, the 2,000-year-old olive tree is a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage. The olive tree, 15 meters high and about 20 meters in circumference, is still vigorously producing olives.

Cap Martin and the Coastal Path

The Cap Martin peninsula is another beautiful part of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. You can stroll on foot along the Cap Martin coastal path, which offers peaceful views of the Mediterranean Sea and nearby Monaco. These peaceful walks are ideal for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

On the coastal walkway, be sure to visit Villa E-1027, a modernist villa designed by architect Irene Gray in the 1930s. Located on the eastern side of the peninsula, the villa is a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture.

What Not to Miss

• Stroll through the narrow streets of the village: The streets of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin are lined with colorful, restored medieval houses. Wander through charming alleys and discover hidden corners, such as the arched streets that seem like a step back in time.
• Tomb of Rumone: The Tomb of Rumone (Rumone’s Tomb) in Cap Martin is an ancient Roman burial site dating back to the 1st century BC. It’s an interesting place for history buffs to discover the influence of the Roman Empire in the region.
• Le Corbusier’s Hut: Another architectural highlight is the hut built by the famous architect Le Corbusier on the Cap Martin peninsula. This simple yet impressive building is a fine example of modernist design.
• Panoramic view: Whether you are in the castle, walking along the coastal path, or gazing out from the village square, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea from Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views.

Where to Stay

There are a variety of accommodations in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, from charming boutique hotels to luxurious villas.

• Hotel de Paris: A small, family-run hotel located in the heart of the village. Close to the medieval village, it is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the local atmosphere.
• Les Bastides Saint-Michel: Located near the coast, this boutique hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the Mediterranean Sea. Ideal for those looking for a quiet retreat.
• Villa Cap Martin: For those seeking luxury, Villa Cap Martin offers a stunning setting with sea views and modern amenities. Ideal for those looking for a more upscale experience.

Dining at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

After a day of sightseeing, enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. For authentic Provencal cuisine, try La Table de Roquebrune, which offers regional dishes made with the freshest ingredients from the region. If seafood is your thing, Le Buse near the beach is the place to go.

Useful Information for Tourists

• Best Season: The best time to visit Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is in the spring or early fall, when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. Summers can get hot, but are ideal for enjoying the beaches.
• Getting Around: The village is small but hilly. Wear comfortable walking shoes if you want to explore the medieval streets. Those with limited mobility may find it convenient to take a cab to the top of the village or use public transportation.
• Parking: Parking in the medieval village is difficult, so it is recommended to park near the train station and walk to the old town. Alternatively, find parking in the coastal resort area.

Getting to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is easily accessible from nearby cities, making it ideal for day trips or longer stays.

• By Train: Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is connected to the Côte d’Azur rail network. The Roquebrune-Cap-Martin train station is a major hub for travelers coming from Menton, Monaco, and Nice. From the station, the village center is a short walk away.
• By Car: The town can be reached via the scenic Moyenne Corniche road, which runs along the Mediterranean coastline. However, the village is located on a hill, making it difficult to navigate the narrow streets.
• By Bus: There are also public buses from Monaco and Menton to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, making it easy to reach from neighboring towns.

Overall, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is a charming town that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture.