While visiting French Riviera in Nice, we should not miss these two attractions, the Castle Hill in Nice and the Promenade des Anglais.
1) The Castle Hill in Nice: From Nice Cote d’Azur Airport, we can reach the castle hill conveniently by tram which stop at Port Lymphia. But, if you want to walk in the Promenade and climb the hill, just get off in the Magnan tram station and then walk towards sea and take a step towards the hill. From Magnan promenade, you will reach the entrance of the hill in around 10 minutes.
Map showing distance between Nice Airport and castle of Nice
About the Castle Hill
The Castle Hill in Nice, (in French, Nice le Chateau) is located 92 metres above the sea level.
This hill was captured and colonized several times and by different parties. This hill was very important during early times because of its strategic location. This hill had a grand Cathedral Chateau built in 11th century. This grand chateau was encircled by a massive wall. The castle was destroyed in 1706 during the conquer of the hill by France. From this date, the hill belongs to France. The walls of the hill was dismantled on the order of King of France, Louis IV and the stones of the wall was used to pave the Promenade des Anglais. At present we can see the ruins of the cathedral.
How to reach the top of the Castle Hill?
Firstly by taking stairs by foot from the side of Promenade des Anglais.
Secondly by elevator (ascenseur) located at Rue des Ponchettes in Promenade des Anglais. This elevator was built on the rock. While waiting for your turn to get into the Ascenseur you can see German built escape tunnel. We can use elevator for free but we need to check the time of its operation.
Also we can get up the hill from the side of Port Lymphia,
While climbing the hill from the old town, we can see the Tour Bellanda( Bellanda Tower). From this tower, we can see the clear view of promenade des Anglais. It is the only remaining piece from the defense structure of the hill of the castle
The Monumental Cemetary
The cemetary has three sections: Jewish, Protestant and Catholic.
From the top of the hill from all side, we can see stunning views. It is worth seeing the artificial waterfall that was built at the end of the 19th century. I climbed this hill several times and I have also spotted this artificial waterfall when it had no water. After climbing the hill, this water spring makes us feel cool.
The same spring without water
The panorama of old town Nice from the observation desk in front of the waterfall
In the center of the hill, we can see the ruins of the original cathedral, picnic spot, public garden(this site in the castle hill was converted into public gardens from 1828 on under the Sardinian restoration.
In the center of the hill of the castle, there is playground.
The view of the Port Lymphia and the hill in distant from the top of the Castle Hill.
The top of the hill is also perfect to spend family time during weekends as there are picnic spots, large play ground, ground with grasses, playground for children .There is a water pump which draws fresh water to drink. On the top of the hill, there is a toilet facility where you require to pay few cents like 0.50 so it is better if you carry coins with you. The place is perfect for sun lovers. We can enjoy sun bath being at the top of the hill. Nice city is sunny around 300 days a year.
We can get down from the hill by the use of ascenseur or walk down the stairs. You can also enjoy the view by climbing hill up from the side of promenade des Anglais and climbing down the hill from the other side to Port Lymphia.
Now let's talk about Promenade des Anglais. Promenade des Anglais is famous for seaside leisure activities. It is a major tourist site in Nice. People are seen doing sporting activities such as running, riding bikes, roller blades on the promenade des anglais. There is a new casino: the Palais de la Méditerranée, Hotel Negresco, many shops etc which we can see from the Promenade des Anglais.
People enjoy sun bathing, swimming, walking along the beach that lies along the Promenade des Anglais.
Panoramic View of the Promenade des Anglais from the Castle Hill
So, if you are travelling to French Riviera don’t miss to visit this hill. If you have already made a tour of this place, please share in the comment about your experience and most liking part of the tour.
Thank you for reading this article.
Have a good time.
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