Andon: Trails, Nature and Medieval History

When choosing a stay in Andon, nature, trails and history go hand in hand. Forests, mountains and vast plateaus shape the landscape; in summer, you can hike across the plateaus. There is also a medieval archaeological site, a loop trail and opportunities for wildlife watching. The themes vary by activity and location: hiking on the plateaus, following a trail to ruins and watching wildlife are different ways to get to know the places you visit.

Landscape and Trails

The La Moulière–L’Audibergue Route No. 27 is an 8.5-kilometre loop starting at La Moulière. After the climb, it offers a beautiful view of the ridgelines. This combines a clearly defined route with a view that opens up after the climb. La Moulière is also known for mountain biking trails, which are often designed for experienced riders; hiking and trail running are also available there.

Castellaras and Saint-Hubert

The Castellaras de Thorenc in Andon is an archaeological site and a fortified medieval castle. Its main construction phases date from the 13th and 14th centuries. From the site, the view extends across the Andon plain and the rugged landscape of the Haut Pays. The trail to the ruins begins at the car park at Col du Castellaras in Andon. It is a very easy, 2.5-kilometre out-and-back hike. Thus, a shorter out-and-back route and a longer loop offer two different types of trail.

The Saint-Hubert Chapel is in the centre of Canaux. It is associated with the blessing of animals during the Saint-Hubert celebration. This cultural connection differs from the medieval Castellaras: here, the focus is on a celebratory tradition, not the construction history of a fortified castle.

Other Sports

The L’Audibergue resort offers downhill skiing and cross-country skiing. At La Moulière, hiking and trail running are also options for outdoor plans, alongside mountain biking. The mountain biking trails there are often designed for experienced riders; this description applies to the trails at La Moulière.

Wildlife Watching in Thorenc

The Réserve Biologique des Monts d’Azur is a 700-hectare nature reserve for wildlife in Thorenc, in the Alpes-Maritimes department. European bison and Przewalski’s horses live there and can be observed. The reserve offers guided safaris on foot, by horse-drawn carriage, on snowshoes and by sled. The options differ in how you get around; check which ones are available on your visit date.

Visit to Ferme de l’Escaillon

Ferme de l’Escaillon is located in Thorenc, within the municipality of Andon. Visits are possible; the farm operates exclusively through direct sales. For visitors interested in farms, it combines the opportunity to visit with a direct-sales model.

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Back to the regional travel overview: Alpes-Maritimes.