Monaco is best known for sleek sports cars, high-stakes gambling and a harbour full of gleaming yachts. But if you step away from the glitz, lace up your walking shoes and head uphill, you’ll find another side to this tiny principality. It is surprisingly rugged, scenic and wild.
Where is Monaco?
Monaco is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera, in Western Europe on the Mediterranean. It is bordered by France to the north, east and west.
Tête de Chien and La Turbie from Beausoleil
Don’t let the name fool you (it translates to “Dog’s Head”), this limestone promontory offers some of the best views over Monaco and the surrounding coast.
There are a few ways up, but the Tête de Chien and La Turbie from Beausoleil route is a local favourite. At just under 9km, it’s a solid half-day hike that climbs through pine-scented woodland to reach a breezy summit at 550 metres.
It’s rated hard, and while the incline can be a challenge, the reward is a spectacular sweep of sea and sky, with caves and old military fortifications to explore along the way. Remember to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and be cautious of loose rocks on the trail.
Tête de Chien via Port de Cap d’Ail
If you’re after something a little longer with more variety, try the Tête de Chien via Port de Cap d’Ail route. This 11.7 m trail blends panoramic ridgeline walking with the easy-going Sentier Littoral along the water. You can mix and match, depending on time and stamina.
Either way, you’ll find yourself immersed in coastal beauty, far from the noise of Monte Carlo The best times to hike in Monaco are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.
It might feel odd to emerge from a hike into one of the most luxurious cityscapes in the world, but that’s exactly the charm.
Walking into a bit of indulgence
After a good leg stretch, why not embrace Monaco’s more indulgent side? The legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo is just a short walk from several trailheads and is worth a visit even if you’re not one to bet big. Step through its ornate doors and you’ll find rooms lined with gold trim, velvet chairs and games akin to what you’d find at any of the well known online casinos, though here, the stakes are higher and the setting infinitely more glamorous. And to be honest, any visit Monaco should include having a bet or two.
Monaco Loop
Back on the trails, another highlight is the Monaco Loop. At 6.9km, it’s a moderate walk that meanders through Monaco-Ville, the historic old town perched on the Rock, and past Port Hercule. This route offers a great intro to Monaco’s layered personality, mixing heritage, coastline and culture in one easy-to-navigate circuit. The Monaco Loop is particularly popular for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the opportunity to explore the historic old town.
On the Heights of Monaco
If you fancy pushing further, the On the Heights of Monaco trail clocks in at nearly 10km and starts right from Monaco’s train station. It snakes upward through La Turbie and eventually leads to the Trophée des Alpes, a towering Roman monument with commanding views.
The joy of walking in Monaco lies in the contrast. One moment, you’re deep in Mediterranean woodland; the next, you’re sipping espresso by the marina. It’s not the wilderness of the Highlands or the Dolomites, but it has its own unique rhythm, a balance of effort and indulgence that feels perfectly Riviera.
