Route Napoléon: History, Heritage and Legends 2025
- Cedric KTORZA
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
History and heritage: the Route Napoléon, a journey steeped in legends. Discover the mythical route that connects Golfe-Juan to Grenoble, between the epic events of 1815, charming villages, and Alpine panoramas. Whether you're planning a road trip, a motorcycle getaway, or a cultural stopover in 2025, here's everything you need to know to experience the Route Napoléon authentically, starting from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey and the Grasse region.
In short
From Golfe-Juan to Grenoble (RN85), a historical route following Napoleon's march in March 1815.
A living heritage: boundary markers with the imperial eagle, museums, commemorative plaques, hilltop villages.
Key stops around Grasse: Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Séranon, Castellane, gateway to the Pre-Alps and the Verdon.
2025 practical advice: favor spring and late season; caution in winter on mountain passes.
Ideal base on the route: Le Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, with rooms, restaurants and terraces.
The origins of a mythical journey (1815)
From the landing to the “Eagle's Flight”
On March 1, 1815, Napoleon landed at Golfe-Juan, determined to return to Paris without a fight. He chose an inland route, safe from royalist troops: Cannes, Grasse, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Castellane, Sisteron, Gap, and then Grenoble. This lightning march, which has become legendary, is extensively documented by historians and specialized institutions such as the Fondation Napoléon and the Musée de l'Armée .
The meeting with Laffrey and the entry into Grenoble
Near Laffrey, tradition recounts the episode where the soldiers sent to arrest him rallied to his side. A few days later, Napoleon entered Grenoble, a decisive stage in the Hundred Days. To delve deeper into the exact route and contemporary sources, consult the digitized collections of the National Archives and the BnF Gallica digital library.
From the imperial road to the tourist route
The RN85 largely follows the route taken in 1815. Throughout the 20th century, the name “Route Napoléon” became established, and the route is marked with milestones bearing the imperial eagle, stelae, and plaques. The dedicated pages on France.fr offer a good overview of the spirit of the journey: history, nature, and lifestyle.
Living heritage: milestones, villages and memories
Landmarks of the RN85
Milestones and eagle stelae: they mark the route and recall the key stages.
Local plaques: they indicate stops, bivouacs, supposed passages; a heritage often maintained by the municipalities.
Archives and inventories: the POP platform of the Ministry of Culture lists many remarkable items (POP – Ministry of Culture).
Iconic towns and villages
Grasse: world capital of perfume, expertise listed by UNESCO; 15 minutes from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey.
Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey: a peaceful town in the Pre-Alps, on the RN85, an ideal starting point for exploring the region.
Séranon and Escragnolles: open landscapes, memory of the Great Road.
Castellane: gateway to the Verdon, silhouette of the Roc and charm of the hinterland.
Further north: Sisteron, Gap, Laffrey, Grenoble — major stages of the epic.
To immerse yourself in the spirit of the place and local hospitality, discover the soul of the house at the Relais Impérial via the Family History page.
Legends, stories and symbols of the Route
The Route Napoléon is steeped in stories passed down through generations. They recount pivotal encounters, growing popular enthusiasm, and impromptu stops in villages. While some details are rooted in oral tradition, they contribute to the imagined journey.
It is said that the eagle markers guide not only travelers, but also the memory of a country that has witnessed history.
To separate fact from legend, cross-reference local accounts with records from the National Archives and information from the Fondation Napoléon .
Recommended routes from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey
Three ways to experience the Road in 2025
Half-day getaway
Grasse and its historic perfumeries, a stroll through the narrow streets, a panoramic view of the Estérel mountains.
Return via the RN85: photo stops between hills and Pre-Alps.
Full day in the Pre-Alps
Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey > Escragnolles > Séranon: open landscapes, commemorative markers.
Continue to Castellane: lunch and exploration of the town.
Weekend getaway
Day 1: Grasse region, local produce and museums.
Day 2: Drive to Castellane, scenic loops and lakes (depending on the season).
Must-see places around Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey (suggestions for 2025)
Stage RN85 | Distance from the hotel (approx.) | Recommended time | Sites and experiences | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Grasse | 15 km | 2–3 h | Perfume shops, cathedral, views of the Mediterranean | Culture, families |
Escargnolles | 16–20 km | 1–2 h | Viewpoints, Route markers | Photography, slow travel |
Seranon | ~25 km | 1–2 h | Plateau, open landscapes, Napoleonic memory | Motorcycle, moped, contemplative |
Castellane | 45–55 km | half day | Roc, village, gateway to the Verdon | Nature, heritage |
local loops | 0–30 km | Variable | Small roads, orientation tables | Relaxing road trip |
Note: distances and times are approximate to help you plan your route. Use official maps to refine your itinerary (see Géoportail – IGN ).
Practical tips for a stress-free trip in 2025
When to leave and road conditions
Best times: April-June and September-October for mild temperatures and superb light.
Summer: heavier traffic; leave early, take advantage of breaks and water points.
Winter: possible snowfall in the higher elevations; check road conditions and equipment before setting off.
Discovery methods
Car and motorcycle: the RN85 is a scenic road with bends and elevation changes; be careful when passing through villages.
Cycling: there are no continuous dedicated cycle paths; choose quieter sections, taking into account elevation changes and weather conditions. IGN maps on Géoportail can help with planning.
Respect for heritage
Do not move or damage the markers and stelae.
Stay on marked trails; find out locally about sensitive areas.
Where to stay on the Route: Le Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey
Ideally located between the sea and the mountains, Le Relais Impérial is a charming stopover in the heart of the RN85. Cozy rooms, some with terraces overlooking the Grasse hills, and beautiful bathrooms to relax in after a long drive: discover the different categories on the Rooms page.
On the dining front, the establishment offers two distinct atmospheres: a bistro-style restaurant featuring local flavors and a convivial wood-fired pizzeria. To plan your stay (parking, opening hours, breakfast, terraces), consult the Services section and book directly through the booking platform .
Are you organizing a motorcycle rally, a birthday party, or a seminar on the Route Napoléon? Flexible spaces and personalized support are available: discover our Events package. For a first glimpse of the venue and its atmosphere, visit the Homepage .
Reliable resources to go further
Fondation Napoléon: reference files, maps and biographies ( napoleon.org ).
Army Museum: context of the Hundred Days and major pieces ( musee-armee.fr ).
POP – Ministry of Culture: heritage inventories, monument notices (pop.culture.gouv.fr).
National Archives: documents on the period 1815 ( archives-nationales.culture.gouv.fr ).
France.fr: inspirations and practical information for the Route Napoléon ( france.fr ).
IGN – Géoportail: plans, altimetry and topographic maps ( geoportail.gouv.fr ).
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Route Napoléon
What is the precise historical route between Golfe-Juan and Grenoble?
The route followed in March 1815 passed through Cannes, Grasse, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Castellane, Sisteron, Gap, and Grenoble, with local variations depending on the condition of the roads at the time. The RN85 (National Route 85) reflects this route, though it is not an exact replica everywhere. To verify a stage or site, cross-reference the markers on the ground (milestones, plaques) with sources such as the Fondation Napoléon and the National Archives . This will help you distinguish between local memory and historical certainty.
How many days will it take to fully enjoy the Route in 2025?
It all depends on your pace. In 2–3 days, you can enjoy the Mediterranean section and the Pre-Alps (Grasse, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Castellane). Allow 4–6 days to travel north to Sisteron, Gap, and Grenoble, including visits to museums and walks. Add extra time in summer (traffic) and winter (weather). Tip: Choose a base like Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey for day trips, then alternate between day hikes and returning to your accommodation.
What are the must-see cultural sites along the RN85?
Around Grasse: perfume museums and the old town; in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey: the atmosphere of a Pre-Alpine village; in Castellane: heritage sites and gateway to the Verdon Gorge; further north: Sisteron (citadel), Laffrey (Prairie de la Rencontre meadow), Grenoble (museums). For verified information and descriptions, consult the POP – Culture database and the Army Museum , which provide context for the period.
Is the Route Napoléon suitable for motorcycles and families?
Yes, the RN85 is a delight for motorcyclists with its curves and panoramic views, but requires caution (appropriate speed, vigilance when passing through villages). For families, opt for shorter sections with regular stops (villages, viewpoints, museums). Spring and autumn offer ideal weather. Always check road conditions and equip yourself according to the season; consult IGN maps on Géoportail to anticipate elevation changes and travel times.
Where to stay and eat on the Route near Grasse?
Just 15 minutes from Grasse, Le Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey offers 28 stylish rooms, a bistro-style restaurant, and a wood-fired pizzeria with terraces. Its location is perfect for exploring Séranon or Castellane. Discover our rooms and services , and book directly through our reservation platform to guarantee the best availability.
Key points to remember
The RN85 follows the spirit of the 1815 march: a route of landscapes, memory and encounters.
Around Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, the route combines Grasse heritage and wild Pre-Alps.
The eagle markers and local plaques mark a living history.
2025: prefer spring and late season, prepare your stages and check the weather.
Base yourself at the Relais Impérial to explore from there, enjoying local cuisine and peaceful nights.
Ready to plan? Get inspired and book your stay on the Relais Impérial website.
