Leaving the bustle of the Côte d’Azur behind to venture into the Niçois hinterland is a unique experience—and there’s nothing more picturesque than doing so aboard the Train des Pignes. This charming narrow‑gauge railway, operated by the Chemins de Fer de Provence, runs from Nice to Digne‑les‑Bains. Onboard, time seems to slow down: the train winds through verdant valleys, olive groves, and breathtaking gorges. The journey itself feels like a timeless interlude.

The nickname “Train des Pignes” is said to originate from the days when the train was so slow that passengers could step off to pick up pine cones (“pignes”) and then reboard! Even today, its leisurely pace allows travelers to admire every panorama and the perched villages clinging to the hills. For heritage lovers, it’s a gentle immersion into the authentic and serene Provençal hinterland.

After about an hour and a half of travel, the train arrives in Entrevaux, a small medieval gem officially classified among the “Villages de caractère.” As soon as you exit the station, the village reveals itself, nestled in the mountains and protected by its fortified walls. Entry is granted via a drawbridge spanning the Var river—an entrance worthy of a medieval tale! Within the walls, cobbled lanes lead to shaded squares lined with colorful facades.

Perched above the village, the Vauban Citadel showcases exemplary military architecture. It can be reached via a zigzagging path—a roughly twenty‑minute climb well worth the effort. From the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over the Var valley and the clustered rooftops of Entrevaux.

To discover other heritage gems of the French Riviera, follow our guide Sandra Ottaviani, who takes you on excursions aboard two comfortable vehicles for guided tours through the Nice hinterland and even as far as Northern Italy.

Following the visit, nothing beats a meal in one of the village’s quaint inns. Here, Provençal cuisine takes center stage: fougasse, chard pie, mountain cheeses, and Secca d’Entrevaux, accompanied by a glass of wine. It’s the perfect way to extend the journey with an authentic taste of the region.

At Inspiring Côte d’Azur, we invite you to discover a hidden side of the French Riviera, far from the beaten paths. Our agency offers a selection of about fifteen itineraries, all led by a professional guide-lecturer who is deeply passionate about sharing the region she holds dear.