Entrevaux

The forecast for Nice was cloudy and rainy today, so Gary and I toured through a 19th century Italian Villa this morning, then jumped on a train to get away from the rain and see the French countryside and Alps. The Chermin de Fer de Provence is a narrow gauge train that travels from Nice to Digne. It follows the white waters of Asse de Moriez and offers scenic views the entire way.

Self portrait on the train 😉

One of the train stops looking out the window

The river we followed…it had the most amazing blue, but it’s hard to see in this pic

Mountains and snow!!

We stopped about halfway to Digne at Entrevaux. It’s a “fairy tale” Medieval village with a citadel perched on top of a large rock outcropping. This place has charm and character. If you travel to the French Riviera, don’t miss it — it’s outstanding! What was even better was that we were the only tourists in the village (one of the advantages of traveling in the off season).

Entrevaux

Port Royale entrance

Entrevaux was fortified in 1690 and it became of the strongest military sites in the Franco-Savoy border. Even the 17th century cathedral was incorporated into the turreted ramparts. When you see the pictures, you’ll see why it was so hard to breach. The citadel sits 440 feet above the village and is only accessible via a very steep, zig zag path.

The citadel

It was a very long, steep climb to the top!!!

Taking a break from the climb

At the top

Gary in one of the prisons, giving his best prisoner impersonation

We had a great day again. For new pictures from yesterday and for pictures from today, check out the updated pictures in the Nice album and Entrevaux album.