Hiking - Saorge

Having wandered past churches and convents through the labyrinth of the dark alleys of a stronghold which has overlooked the Roya road since time immemorial, this family walk will allow you to explore an area of medium-sized mountains where agricultural life remains active under the Mediterranean sun.
"The lofty position of the high houses which rise above each other... an impression of royalty, noble for too long to take the slightest notice of the scars of poverty." Jean Giono

As you enter the village, head up the climb on the left, going past the church of Saint-Sauveur. From the forecourt, an alley with steps rises all the way to the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs.
Subsequently, join the main street which goes past the Chapelle des Pénitents Noirs. At the foot of the rural staircase which leads to the Couvent des Franciscains, note the attractive pountin, a little stone bridge between a house and a street, above another street.
After visiting the convent, which today no longer hosts its worshippers, take the cobbled path which is bordered by small walls and which winds up the sunny slopes overlooking the Bendola Valley. It goes past the lodge, heading into the countryside. A sheltered fountain is a source of crystal clear water and then an attractive stone bridge shows the way across the Anguiron Valley.
Having crossed the following Coupéra Valley, the path reaches the Chapelle Sainte-Croix, with its elegant outline. On the flatter grassy section below the chapel, take the path which heads down along the gentle ridge. Further down, pick up a dirt track which can be used by vehicles.
Finally, take the left fork until you reach Chapelle Sainte-Anne.
Head back the way you came and follow the dirt track until you reach the tarmacked road. Head right towards Notre-Dame del Poggio.
Before going back to the carpark you left from, you may enjoy wandering round the village whose dark alleyways provide many arresting sights.