The Provence region of southeastern France is renowned for its luxurious destinations along the French Riviera. However, for those who crave outdoor adventures, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore nature in the region. One outstanding excursion that combines exceptional hiking with captivating archaeological history can be found in the southern Alps of Mercantour National Park, at the Vallée des Merveilles (“Valley of Wonders”). A two-day hike through this area unveils the valley’s hidden treasures.

The journey commences in the charming town of Tende, nestled at the foot of the Alps near the Italian border. Upon meeting your guide, you will set off into the park, passing through breathtaking mountain passes and verdant alpine forests. A delightful picnic lunch awaits on the shores of a glacial lake that leads into the Vallée des Merveilles.

After depositing your heavier belongings at a mountain refuge, you will proceed to the petroglyph zone. This remarkable site boasts approximately 40,000 stone engravings created by humans over 5,000 years ago during the late-Neolithic era. The engravings depict men, bulls, geometric shapes, as well as weapons like daggers and halberds. Your guide will assist in interpreting the images and provide insights into the archaeological history of the area.

Following the exploration of the petroglyphs, you will make your way back to the refuge. Overall, this medium-difficulty trek entails 5-6 hours of hiking. Immerse yourself in more active experiences in France.

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