Seasons:
10 May – 16 October 2008
When to go
May & Jun: The flowers at the Col des Champs are superb, while snow lingers on Mont Pelat. One or two of the highest walks may not be accessible
July & Aug: As the wild lavender comes into flower, this is traditionally the best time for walking in the high mountains – and for counting butterflies!
September: The flocks are gradually moving down from the highest pastures; the early autumn temperature is perfect for walking.
October: The valley’s larch forests and turning and the stags are belling. Cooler weather brings clear views and perhaps a dusting of snow to the peaks.
2008 Prices - Land Only
Prices are per person, including car hire, based on sharing a double/twin room:
| 3 nights | £335.00 |
|---|---|
| 4 nights | £415.00 |
| 5 nights | £495.00 |
| 6 nights | £555.00 |
| 7 nights | £615.00 |
| Extra nights (per night) | £85.00 |
Single room suppl. (sharing car) = £8 /night
Children under 2 years old (infants)- Free
Children aged 2-11 years old – 25% discount
Parties/families of 6 or more (excl infants) = 1 person free (conditions apply)
Driving Time From Airports
- Nice = 2 hours
The Mercantour
Immediately inland of Nice and the Côte d’Azur rise France’s southernmost Alps. Deep valleys cut northwards into the mountains, so the transition from Mediterranean to Alpine, from olive and cistus to pine and gentian, can often be made in a few hours of walking. Our Upland Escape is located towards the western end of the Mercantour massif, on the borders of the Mercantour National Park, where populations of protected species including wolf, bouquetin (ibex) and chamois are carefully monitored. High meadows and turquoise lakes lie at the foot of the 3050m peak of Mont Pelat, rolling Alpine pastures are dotted with ancient hamlets and traditional farms, and mountain streams tumble down pine-cloaked gorges towards the coast. Traditional ways of life continue in the high valleys; in particular flocks of sheep graze free, often only accompanied by guardian dogs, having made the journey over intervening passes from winter pastures closer to the coast.
