Discover Clans

Clans combines a townscape that has retained its medieval character with historic buildings and outdoor activities. When planning your trip, you can choose between architecture and local history, trails leading toward the forest, and seasonal activities. The month of your stay also matters: the market and the swimming lake follow different schedules.

Churches, Chapels and a Mill

The present-day Église Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité is listed as a historic monument and was built from 1680 onward. Its façade is designed in the neoclassical style. The Chapelle Saint-Jean is entirely decorated with works by the artist Moya; the Chapelle Saint-Antoine is listed as a historic building. A 16th-century grain mill adds another chapter of architectural history to the churches and chapels. It predates the Église, whose construction began in 1680; the chapels, meanwhile, stand out for Moya’s artwork and their listing as a historic building. Together, they offer a range of historical and architectural points of interest, from mill construction to a neoclassical church façade.

Trails and a Mountain Bike Route

The hiking trails in Clans lead to one of the department’s most beautiful forests and can be reached on foot or by electric bike; access to individual trails may change. The forest gives these trails a specific destination for planning your outings. Access to individual trails may change, so check the conditions for your chosen trail before setting out. Another route is the Traversée du Valdeblore mountain bike route. It runs from La Colmiane at an altitude of 1,500 metres to Pont de Clans at 300 metres. Along its full route, it passes through eight villages, including Clans. The stated elevations of the two endpoints differ by 1,200 metres. When choosing a route, the difference lies in the destination and course: the hiking trails in Clans lead to the forest, while the Traversée passes through eight villages from La Colmiane to Pont de Clans. Check current conditions and possible closures before riding the Traversée.

Market and Seasonal Swimming

From April to December, a market featuring local producers and artisans is held in Clans on the first Saturday of each month. Check the specific date before your trip if the market is part of your firm plans. There is also a natural swimming lake, unique in the valley; its opening schedule may vary by season. Check current conditions before visiting. The market and swimming lake offer different clues when planning your travel dates: the market follows a monthly schedule, while the lake’s operation is seasonal.

Getting to Pont de Clans

Pont de Clans is 68 kilometres from Nice Airport. The route follows the RM 6202 through the Var Valley, then the RM 2205 through the Tinée Valley. Road conditions may change, so check the route for your travel date before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Bairols, Levens, Aspremont, La Tour, Cap-D'ail, Saint-Auban, Châteauneuf-Grasse, Coursegoules.

For the regional travel guide: Alpes-Maritimes.