Hilltop park with sweeping Nice views
There is no castle on Castle Hill – it was demolished in 1706 on the orders of Louis XIV, who didn’t want any local competition to his authority. But its absence barely matters.
What remains is a beautiful public park at the top of a rocky promontory, with views that stretch in every direction. The Baie des Anges to the west, the port and hills to the east, the orange rooftops of Vieux-Nice spread out below.
The gentlest climb takes about 15 minutes on foot, if you enter from the north, following a path up to the top. If that sounds like more than you’re in the mood for, there’s a lift on the west side near the port (Ascenseur du Château). It runs for limited hours so it’s best to check the times before you rely on it.
The waterfall near the summit is entirely artificial, built in the 19th century to add a little drama, and it absolutely works. Go in the late afternoon – the light on the bay at that hour is something else.
View French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)
