Discover Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage

Hiking routes, protected nature and mountain history reveal different sides of Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage. The village is a stage on the GR5 and the Grande Traversée du Mercantour; at the same time, its attractions range from a summer route to military structures and a chapel that can only be visited on a guided tour. When planning your trip, you can weigh up whether you want to focus on getting out into the landscape, observing nature or exploring the heritage.

Hiking trails and climbing spots

Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage is a stage on the GR5 and the Grande Traversée du Mercantour. Numerous hikes start in Bousièyas, several of them following the GR5 and GR56. For planning your walks, these offer two distinct reference points: a long-distance hiking stage and several hikes starting in Bousièyas. The Tour du Bois de Ville is also one of the summer routes in Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage. Check the conditions on your chosen route before setting off.

At Rocher de Junic, there are around 100 equipped climbing routes. A 15- to 20-minute walk leads to the base of the routes. The Vallon de Gialorgues is home to icefalls considered among the region’s most beautiful; whether they are accessible depends on winter conditions.

Protected nature and the seasons

The Adret de Pra Gazé, designated a Natura 2000 site, lies within the commune and covers around 100 hectares. The Chauves-souris de la Haute-Tinée site covers 1,787 hectares in Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage and Saint-Etienne-de-Tinée; 14 different bat species are found there.

One seasonal natural attraction is a plant known as “Tête de dragon.” It flowers just above the village at the start of summer; the exact flowering time may vary.

Buildings and history

The Saint Dalmas parish church dates from the early 18th century; its Romanesque-style bell tower is dated 1718. The Chapelle Sainte Marguerite is a 15th-century chapel. Its frescoes are attributed to Baleison and are thought to date from around 1480. The chapel can only be visited on a guided tour, with advance booking required.

The Avant-poste de Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage is a military fortification on the Maginot Line. Le Camp des Fourches offers another perspective on military history: construction of this high-altitude barracks began in 1888. Its restored ruins can be visited individually, although weather and the season may affect visits. Le Camp des Fourches is on the Route du Col de la Bonette between the Alpes-Maritimes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments; road access is seasonal under alpine conditions.

Visitor information

The Maison de Pays houses the information office of the metropolitan tourism authority. There you can get information about accommodation, shops and activities in the commune. Advice covers summer and winter hiking, activities in Auron and Isola 2000, the Parc national du Mercantour and transport options.

Discover more destinations: Coursegoules, La Trinité, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Breil-Sur-Roya, Saint-Blaise, Sallagriffon, Peymeinade, Cannes.

For the broader travel guide: Alpes-Maritimes.