10 day itinerary for Parc Mercantour

Itinerary

Parc Mercantour is a stunning destination in the French Alps, perfect for a 10-day adventure filled with hiking, kayaking, and some well-deserved rest. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that balances your love for the outdoors with some relaxation time. Buckle up, because this is going to be an exciting journey!

## Day 1: Arrival and Settle In

• Morning: Arrive at Parc Mercantour and set up your van at a designated camping area, like the one in Saint-Martin-Vésubie.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around the village to get your bearings. Enjoy a coffee at a local café and soak in the mountain views.
• Evening: Prepare a simple dinner in your van and relax. Maybe take a short evening walk to stretch your legs after the drive.

## Day 2: Hiking to the Lakes of Pélago

• Morning: After breakfast, head to the trailhead for the hike to the Lakes of Pélago. It’s a moderate hike, about 4-5 hours round trip.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic by the lakes. Take a dip if the weather permits!
• Evening: Return to your van, freshen up, and enjoy a hearty dinner. Perhaps try some local cheese and bread!

## Day 3: Kayaking on the Var River

• Morning: Drive to the Var River for a kayaking adventure. Rent a kayak and spend the morning paddling through the stunning scenery.
• Afternoon: Have lunch at a riverside spot. Afterward, you can either continue kayaking or take a short hike along the river.
• Evening: Head back to your van, relax, and enjoy a sunset dinner.

## Day 4: Rest Day in Saint-Martin-Vésubie

• All ## Day: Take a well-deserved rest day! Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, read a book, or take a short walk around the village.
• Afternoon: Treat yourself to a spa day or visit a local market to pick up some fresh produce and local delicacies.
• Evening: Cook a nice dinner and enjoy a movie night in your van.

## Day 5: Explore the Vallée des Merveilles

• Morning: Drive to the Vallée des Merveilles, famous for its prehistoric rock carvings. Start your hike early to explore the area.
• Afternoon: Pack a lunch and enjoy it amidst the stunning landscapes. Spend the afternoon hiking and taking photos.
• Evening: Return to your van and enjoy a simple dinner. Reflect on the day’s adventures!

## Day 6: Hiking to the Refuge de Nice

• Morning: Set off early for a hike to the Refuge de Nice. This is a longer hike (about 6-7 hours), so be prepared!
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at the refuge and take in the breathtaking views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike a bit further to explore the surrounding area.
• Evening: Spend the night at the refuge (if you choose to stay) or return to your van for a cozy dinner.

## Day 7: Kayaking at Lake Allos

• Morning: Drive to Lake Allos, one of the largest natural lakes in Europe. Rent a kayak and spend the morning paddling around the lake.
• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch by the lake. Afterward, take a short hike around the area to explore the beautiful landscapes.
• Evening: Head back to your van, enjoy a relaxing evening, and maybe stargaze if the sky is clear!

## Day 8: Rest Day and Local Culture

• All ## Day: Take another rest day! Explore local culture by visiting nearby villages like Tende or Sospel.
• Afternoon: Try some local cuisine at a restaurant or café.
• Evening: Return to your van, relax, and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

## Day 9: Hiking in the Mercantour National Park

• Morning: Choose a new hiking trail in the Mercantour National Park. The hike to the Col de la Moutière is a great option.
• Afternoon: Enjoy lunch on the trail and take in the stunning views. Spend the afternoon exploring the area.
• Evening: Return to your van, enjoy a nice dinner, and reflect on your hiking experiences.

## Day 10: Departure

• Morning: Pack up your van and enjoy a final breakfast in the beautiful surroundings.
• Afternoon: If time allows, take a short hike or visit a local market for some last-minute souvenirs.
• Evening: Head home, filled with memories of your incredible adventure in Parc Mercantour!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of hiking, kayaking, and relaxation in the breathtaking Parc Mercantour. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🌄🚐🏞️