This week, we are heading for the Valley of Roya, and more precisely, the unbelievable high-altitude village of Saorge. Its narrow shady lanes hide many attractions - just look up and you’ll be sure to spot them.

Saorge – an enchanting village

As you approach Saorge, you will see that looks like a giant amphitheatre built right into the rock – from inside, it feels like taking a journey back in time. Its shady and narrow lanes, churches, vaulted passages and Franciscan monastery all combine to give it a truly special feel.

In the past, the village enjoyed the protection of three strong châteaux. Several chapels, including the Chapel of Madonna Del Poggio, with its Lombard style bell tower, still remain.

Discovering the village

We have put together a 2-hour walking tour route that takes you passed Saorge’s main attractions, its most fascinating places of interest, and some of its hidden treasures.


First of all the route takes you past the Place de Ciapagne, whose name means ‘false stone’ in reference to the chalk stone that surrounds the village. Further along, go down rue de la Carera de l’Incisa, so named to commemorate the first piercing of the rock in 1436, which took place here. Until then, Saorge had been completely blocked off by rock on its northern side.


From there, take the steps on the right, which lead to a very pretty vantage point with views over the Valley of Roya and the whole village.

Turn around and retrace your steps back to the village as far as Ciassa soutana (lower Place) to enjoy more stunning views. To the north of the Place, take the steps up to the middle of the village and the small Place Chu ra porta. From there take the slightly steeper steps up to Saorge’s upper communal oven.


To the west, you will find the Baroque style Church of Saint-Saveur containing colourful paintings and 18th century master-alter. It really is worth taking a look inside.

From the church, take the steps located next to the church doors and climb to the upper village to enjoy yet more magnificent views.

For the return journey, head towards the Franciscan convent via the chemin de Repentia. Most of the monastery is open to visitors, such as the cloisters, vestry, chapel, refectory and convent garden.

Take the small path that follows the Convent promenade as far as the Church of Madonna del Poggio. From there, head back to the middle of the village.