Skip to content
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: The Côte d’Azur’s Best-Kept Secret
Right between the Riviera’s most popular destinations (Monaco Eze and Menton), you will find Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. The old town is located on top of a hill, like many villages on the French Riviera. While neighbouring Monaco and Èze often steal the limelight, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin is picturesque, relaxed and just as charming! It has cobbled medieval streets, a castle at the top with a view of turquoise water, modernist architecture in a different part of town and spectacular coastal walks. Plenty to enjoy, whether it’s a beach day, visiting some of its famous buildings or a learning about the history of the towns and it’s castle.
What to see and do in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin
Wander through the medieval village
Start in the old village of Roquebrune, where narrow, winding lanes lead between stone houses, arches and little squares. At the top sits the medieval castle, that dates back to the 10th century. From here, you’ll have an incredible panorama view, with Monaco on the coastline. If you take the train, keep in mind you’ll have to walk up a steep hill to get to the old center. In the summer heat that is not always pleasant, so consider coming early or later in the afternoon. The buses up are not frequent and also not hat reliable.
Visit The Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Chateau – Castle
Besides the epic views looking out over the mediterranean, this castle also has historical significance. It was built around 970 AD by Conrad I, Count of Ventimiglia, to defend against Saracen raids. It is one of the very few surviving examples of Carolingian military architecture in France. For centuries it was controlled by the Grimaldi family of Monaco starting in the 15th century. Later on, in the 20th century it was owned by Englishman Sir William Ingram, who gifted it to the town in 1921.- Admission: 5 euros for adults; free for children under six.
- Inside the castle: Explore the old guardroom, weapon room, reconstructed medieval kitchen, and the dungeon keep.
Find the wall of Ears
There is a wall in town, decorated by a local man with handcrafted ears. Some ceramic, some other material. We all must have heard the saying ‘the walls have ears’, and this is a fun play on that.
Saint-Martin-Saint-Laurent Church
This historic church at the heart of the old village dates back to the 11th century and features baroque frescoes, a striking altarpiece, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s not large, but it gives a sense of the town’s deep spiritual and cultural roots. Look out for concerts and classical performances held here in the summer months.
L’Olivier Millénaire (The Thousand-Year-Old Olive Tree)
Just outside the medieval village you’ll find a remarkable olive tree, that is believed to be over 1,000 years old. L’Olivier Millénaire is one of the oldest trees in France and a symbol of longevity and resilience. It sits quietly in a small garden, surrounded by olive groves and low stone wall. a peaceful place to reflect and take some photos.Plage du Buse
A hidden gem among Riviera beaches, Plage du Buse is a pebbled, relatively quiet beach nestled beneath the cliffs of Cap Martin. With clear water and generally fewer tourists than more famous beaches, The reason it might be quieter is that tou get there on foot via a steep staircase. Perfect if you’re seeking a more secluded spot. Bring water and supplies, as facilities are minimal. Ideal for a nice swim and relaxing.
Walk the Sentier Le Corbusier
One of highlights is the coastal trail Sentier Le Corbusier. This spectacular path follows the rocky coastline around Cap Martin. The combination of turquoise water, dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation makes this one of the most beautiful walks on this part of the Riviera. Make sure to wear proper shoes and bring enough water. (Especially during summer, when it’s hot)
Discover Eileen Gray and Le Corbusier
If you love architecture, you absolutely cannot miss Cap Moderne. This is home to Eileen Gray’s celebrated Villa E-1027 and Le Corbusier’s Cabanon. Gray’s minimalist modernist house was designed in the late 1920s as a seaside retreat, while Le Corbusier later built his tiny Cabanon nearby. You can only visit by guided tour, with advance booking required. Visiting times run from April 1 to October 31st.
The famed Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier built the minimalist seaside cabin on Cap Martin in the 1950s. He would use this as a retreat to paint, write, and swim. This small wooden structure, known as the Cabanon, is a UNESCO-listed site and an icon of modernist architecture. it’s a fascinating glimpse into Le Corbusier’s life and vision.
The best Restaurants in Roquebrune Cap Martin
Au Grand Inquisiteur: A timeless experience! The setting in this former vaulted sheepfold is simply magical and romantic. The cuisine is impeccable: homemade dishes with seasonal produce, prepared with refined finesse. The welcome is warm and professional. If you are looking for an authentic and memorable place to eat in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, this is the place. A special mention for the excellent wine recommendations
How to get to Roquebrune Cap Martin
By train: You can reach Roquebrune-Cap-Martin by train (Grasse – Ventimiglia via Nice and Monaco), but then you will have to wander up-hill to the Old Town. Which is beautiful, but advisable to do when it’s not too hot yet. There are buses that go up, but they are not frequent.
By car; Parking is limited in the medieval village, but you’ll find car parks:
- Parking on this street: Av. Raymond Poincaré. Near the village entrance
- Parking du Cap Martin: Near the coastal path and beach access.
- Station parking- Parking Cabbé: Available near the train stations and around Carnolès.
In peak season, parking fills quickly, so plan to arrive early if driving.
