Why choose Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey for a nature weekend

A nature weekend between sea and mountains, why choose Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey: the perfect getaway in the heart of the Prealps of the French Riviera.

Just 15 minutes from Grasse and about 40 minutes from the French Riviera, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey has everything you need for a successful nature getaway: mountain panoramas, forests, caves, rivers, hilltop villages… all without the crowds of the coast, yet within easy reach of its beaches and museums. By choosing the Relais Impérial, an iconic hotel-restaurant on the Route Napoléon, you'll enjoy a welcoming base, a convivial dining experience, and a strategic location for exploring the region. This page will guide you in planning a rejuvenating, active, and gourmet weekend between the sea and the mountains.

In short

• Between the Mediterranean and the Pre-Alps: hiking, caves, rivers and exceptional villages in the immediate vicinity.

• Easy access: Route Napoléon, Grasse train station, Nice airport for a hassle-free getaway.

• Ideal base: Le Relais Impérial, a charming hotel with two restaurants and sunny terraces.

• Activities all year round: coolness in summer, colors of autumn, light of winter, blooms in spring.

• Culture and know-how: perfumes of Grasse, heritage, markets and local products.

Where is Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey located and why is it ideal?

Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is nestled on the legendary Route Napoléon, in the heart of the Grasse region, at the gateway to the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park. Here, you can breathe in the fresh mountain air while still having the Mediterranean within easy reach. This unique location allows you to combine forest trails, scenic drives, cultural visits, and, if you wish, a dip in the sea.

The mild climate of the hinterland, tempered by the altitude, makes hiking pleasant for much of the year. To prepare your outings and check conditions, consult the map and route descriptions of the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park or plan your routes with IGNrando .

Nature experiences between sea and mountains

Hiking and panoramic views for all levels

• The Prealps of the French Riviera offer a wide choice of forest loops and more exposed routes. The GR4 long-distance hiking trail crosses the area, linking diverse landscapes from karst plateaus to panoramic ridges. For information on specific sections and advice, consult the French Hiking Federation website .

• Nearby, the Caussols plateau, the Audibergue hill, and the ridges overlooking the Loup valley offer breathtaking views all the way to the sea on a clear day. Early mornings in spring or autumn are ideal for perfect lighting.

Tip: bring water, a windproof layer and suitable shoes; in the mountains, the weather changes quickly.

Caves, rivers and summer coolness

• The Baume Obscure Cave, located in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, offers a fun and educational underground tour for families to discover concretions and geology. Information and opening hours are available on the official Baume Obscure Cave website.

• The Gorges du Loup, a short distance away, offer spectacular pools and waterfalls, including the Saut du Loup. To plan your visit and respect sensitive areas, consult the dedicated page on the Côte d'Azur France website.

Cycling, gravel roads and legendary routes

• Road and gravel cyclists appreciate the quiet country roads, the Route Napoléon, and the trails of the Prealps. The gently rolling but challenging terrain allows for beautiful panoramic loops. Consult the official maps of the PNR des Préalpes d'Azur and IGNrando .

• By car, the Route Napoléon is a remarkable heritage and landscape route, perfect for alternating viewpoints and village stops.

Culture, perfumes and hilltop villages

Grasse, the world capital of perfume

Recognized by UNESCO in 2018 for its perfume-making expertise, Grasse captivates visitors with its workshops, gardens, and museums. Discover the history and exceptional techniques recognized by UNESCO , then visit the International Perfume Museum . Plan your visits through the Grasse Tourist Office.

Hinterland villages

Gourdon, one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the French Riviera, Cabris, Tourrettes-sur-Loup… So many villages to stroll through, with their narrow streets, artisan workshops, and sunny terraces. The panoramas are superb and perfectly complement your morning walks.

Riviera for the day

Craving the sea? Cannes, Antibes, or Juan-les-Pins are all within easy reach for a swim or a stroll along the seafront, before returning to the tranquility of the hills in the late afternoon. To choose a beach or a natural spot, consult the information on the official Côte d'Azur France website.

Where to sleep and eat well: Le Relais Impérial

A charming address nestled between the sea and the mountains, Le Relais Impérial is the perfect partner for your nature getaways. Its welcoming atmosphere and tranquility make it a welcome refuge after a day of exertion.

• Rooms and views: 28 rooms in 5 categories, some with terraces overlooking the hills, others with bathtubs for ultimate relaxation. Discover the categories on the Rooms page.

• Local Flavors: a bistro-style restaurant showcasing regional products and a wood-fired pizzeria for convivial moments on the terrace. The establishment's services are detailed here: Services .

• Events: seminars, intimate weddings, birthdays… Modular spaces and personalized support are available, see the Events section.

• Book your stay: check availability and offers on the booking platform or discover the spirit of the house on the homepage .

“People come here to recharge, enjoy delicious food and slow down.” Marion and Alice, the hostesses of the house, welcome you with kindness and sincere attention.

2-day itinerary ideas

Day 1 – Pre-Alps, cave and perfume

• Morning: nature loop starting from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, depending on your level (forest path or viewpoint). Orientation using the resources of the PNR des Préalpes d'Azur.

• Lunch: relaxed lunch at the wood-fired pizzeria of the Relais.

• Afternoon: Visit to the Baume Obscure Cave for the coolness and underground exploration. Relaxation at the end of the day on the terrace.

• Evening: bistronomic dinner at the Relais Impérial, local and creative cuisine.

Day 2 – Villages and sea (Riviera option) or wide open spaces

• Option 1: Hilltop villages (Gourdon, Cabris), viewpoints and crafts. End of the day by the sea on the Riviera.

• Option 2: Mountain immersion (plateaus, ridges, Loup valley) with a picnic break. Return to the Relais for a gourmet meal.

Practical advice

Best time and weather

Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant (flowers in bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds). In summer, opt for early departures and cooler locations (gorges, caves). In winter, enjoy beautiful light and clear air on the mountain ridges. Check the local weather forecast before setting off.

Access and mobility

• Train: Grasse station (TER) to reach the hinterland, timetables on the TER Sud website.

• Plane: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport then drive to Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey.

• Regional buses: ZOU! network from Grasse to the villages. A car remains a practical way to access the starting points of hikes.

Equipment and safety

• Appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, windbreaker.

• Respect local regulations (dogs, fires, bivouacking) and the signage of the Regional Natural Park. Find out about trails and sensitive areas via the Prealps of the French Riviera Regional Natural Park website.

Activity/Season Reference Table

Title: Nature activities and useful links according to the season

Season	Strengths	Similar ideas	Useful links
Spring	Flowering, mild temperatures	Scenic hikes, hilltop villages	PNR Préalpes d'Azur, FFRandonnée
Summer	Coolness at altitude and underground	Caves, gorges, forests	Baume Obscure , French Riviera
Autumn	Golden lights, reduced crowds	Ridges, GR4, markets	IGNrando , Pays de Grasse
Winter	Clear air, distant views	Sunny walks, culture	Route Napoléon , Museums of Grasse

FAQ

What is the best time for a nature weekend in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) combine pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers or golden hues, and quieter trails. Summer is perfect if you're looking for the cool shade of caves, gorges, and forests, with early morning starts. Winter offers superb light and clear views, ideal for scenic walks. Whatever the season, check the weather forecast the day before and the morning of your hike, and adapt your route to the group's fitness level.

Do you need a car to explore the Prealps of the French Riviera from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey?

The car remains the most flexible option for quickly reaching trailheads and making numerous scenic stops. However, you can combine TER trains to Grasse with ZOU! regional buses to access several villages. Plan your connections in advance (especially on weekends), prioritize routes departing from the village, and check the timetables on the TER Sud and ZOU! websites.

What "cool" activities are there to do in the summer around Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey?

To avoid the heat, opt for caves (Baume Obscure), gorges (Vallée du Loup), walks in the undergrowth, and the breezy heights of the Prealps. Alternate active mornings with afternoons spent exploring (museums in Grasse, hilltop villages). Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, and check the Prealps of the French Riviera Regional Natural Park website for information on restricted or sensitive areas.

Where to stay to best enjoy nature while maintaining comfort?

The Relais Impérial, in the heart of Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, offers the ideal compromise: comfortable rooms, terraces, a bistro-style restaurant and wood-fired pizzeria, plus a strategic location for exploring Grasse, the gorges, and the mountain ridges. View Rooms , Services , and book easily via the booking platform .

Key points to remember

• A prime location between sea and mountains for a weekend 100% nature and culture.

• Great walks, caves and gorges nearby, four seasons of interest.

• Grasse and its perfume expertise perfectly complement the journey.

• The Relais Impérial: comfort, conviviality and two tables to enjoy a delicious meal.

• Easy access via the Route Napoléon, TER train to Grasse and Nice airport.

• Ready to get away? Discover the spirit of the house on the homepage or contact the team to refine your stay via the Contact page.