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The most "Italian"
of the towns on the French Riviera (logically, as it's the
last town before the border), Menton is a quiet city with
indisputable charm. Capital of the Lemon (Citrus Festival
held every year in February), the town is blessed by a particularly
mild and sunny climate. In the Old Town, narrow sloping streets
climb up to the Church of Saint Michel, while the mellow colors
of the façades and washing hung out to dry from one window
to the other reminds us that we're just a stone's throw from
Italy. The lower town is centered around its pedestrian area
and the covered hallways where the market opens every day.
In 1346, after belonging to Genoa for many long years, Menton
became part of the territory governed by the Principality
of Monaco. It was to stay "Monégasque" until the mid-19th
century. In 1860, after a 12-year period under the protection
of the Kingdom of Sardinia, Menton was annexed to France,
along with the rest of the County of Nice. It was again an
Englishman, Mr. Henry Bennett who, at the beginning of this
century, launched Menton and its sun-blessed bathing resort
onto the tourist scene. West of Menton, the ancient village
of Roque-brune looks down at the shoreline, giving a superb
view of the Principality of Monaco. This medieval village
is built on a gigantic landslide which stopped halfway down
the hill, which explains the presence of huge rocks scattered
throughout the village and towering above certain houses.
The Castle, dating back to 970, stands over the village and
overlooks the whole coastline. It is one of the few Carolinian
castles in France that has remained intact: you can still
see the drawbridge, the great hall, the prison, the guardroom,
the kitchens, the dining room and the dungeon which has been
restored and which affords a view over the whole village.
Surveying Menton, Cap Martin also offers lovely views of the
coast. Cap Martin, a beautifully preserved site, offers magnificent
viewpoints. On the eastern side, take the coast road and enjoy
the view over Menton and the Italian Riviera. To the West,
wander along the "Le Corbusier" path which will lead you to
Monte Carlo in a little under two hours. In 1952, Le Corbusier
designed, had built, then furnished an "artist's home" in
an exceptional position by the water's edge, according to
the theory of "modular habitats". Le Corbusier drowned in
the bay at the age of 78. Stop and pay homage to his talent
when you visit this enchanting site. ( Tanks to French Riviera
Chamber of Commerce ) Hotel Suggestion in Menton - Roquebrune
Cap Martin - Monaco Montecalo area :
Hotel Ambassador Monaco
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FRENCH
RIVIERA 
