Far from the
crowds and the glitter, Menton is the heart of a region apart, a
different Riviera which only unveils it's treasure to those who
come to genuinely seek them out. From the coast right to the highest
of the hilltop villages, each step of the way, the Mentonnaise country
reveals it's own specific art of living.
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, the Citrus Festival held every year
in February, the town is blessed by a particularly mild and sunny
climate.
Cool squares,
narrow little streets cascading toward the sea: the historical heart
of the city beats behind the ocre frontage of the houses. Sun light
filters through the shuttered houses preserving the intimacy of
the homes from the assalt of the sun. We are brought back in time
through the red-glazed rooftops of the bell-towers.
In Menton, Baroque
Art gave rise to an incredible duo - the majestic "Basilique
Saint-Michel" and a few steps higher "La Chapelle des
Pénitents Blancs" (White Sinnners Church). Directly
above, right at the top of the hill, the "Vieux Château"
cemetry can be located, Here, many Russian and British aristocracy
have found their final resting place and here one can observe an
unequalled view over the sea, Italy and the Mountains.
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.
It is practically
impossible to stay in Menton without strolling down the pedestrian
street. This central street is a must for all visitors to Menton
as it is packed with shops and restaurants and extends from the
sea front to the "Campanin" garden. The Municipal market
is located between the old port and the old city. Overflowing with
colours, exotic aromas and flowers from the South of France, look
out for Mentonnaise specialities such as lemons, spices and "barbbajuans"
(fried vegetables and rice).
Tourist Office
8, Avenue Boyer
Phone: +33(0)492 41 76 76
Fax: +33(0)492 41 76 78
