Courmes: Hiking, History and Dry-Stone Architecture

In Courmes, hiking, historic traces and dry-stone architecture go hand in hand. When planning your trip, you can consider whether you mainly want to explore on foot or learn more about the history and building traditions of the village. There are specific points of interest for both: from the GR51 long-distance hiking trail to a hike focused on the rural dry-stone architecture of the Préalpes d’Azur.

Hiking and Dry-Stone Architecture

On the “Randonnée pierre sèche avec Cap Azur” activity, Jean Capitant accompanies hikers on a walk to discover the rural dry-stone architecture typical of the Préalpes d’Azur. Dry-stone construction means fitting stones together without mortar; the activity’s name points to its specific subject. The GR51 long-distance hiking trail passes through Courmes. Check the route before setting out.

Courmes is also a starting point for hikes to the Plateau de Saint-Barnabé. The hike from Courmes to Puy de Tourrettes leads to this plateau, a viewpoint with views stretching from the mountain peaks to the coast. The two route descriptions emphasize different things: the GR51 is noted for passing through Courmes, while the hike to Puy de Tourrettes is described by its destination at the plateau. Conditions on the trails to the plateau can vary depending on the season.

Historic Traces in Courmes

The medieval village of Courmes was formerly located north of the present-day settlement, at Les Combes, where ruins remain. A fortified settlement called Courmes is mentioned in the first half of the 13th century. Together, these details point to two specific aspects of the village’s history: the former location of the village and the mention of a fortified settlement during that period.

The Church of Sainte-Madeleine dates from the 17th century and has been very well restored. Access may vary if you would like to see the interior. This distinguishes the church as a historic site from the hiking destinations described here: the focus is on its architectural history and state of preservation, while the routes are defined by their course, destination and views.

Gorges du Loup and Viewpoints

The Gorges du Loup, which run below Courmes, provide a refuge for numerous animal and plant species. Fifteen percent of the area is included in the Natura 2000 inventory, and 66 percent in the ecological ZNIEFF inventory. They offer another perspective on the landscape around Courmes, while the named hikes focus on specific destinations and views.

The hike to Pic de Courmettes offers panoramic views over the Préalpes and the Mediterranean coast. Another named natural feature is the Cascade de Courmes, which is 20 metres high. The village description thus brings together different natural features: a refuge for animal and plant species, a waterfall with a stated height, and viewpoints described in connection with hikes.

Discover more destinations: Fontan, Tourrette-Levens, Vence, Bézaudun-Les-Alpes, Castagniers, Aspremont, Saint-Laurent-Du-Var, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.

For the main travel overview: Alpes-Maritimes.