Discover the Region
Airole lies in the Roya Valley, where Liguria borders France. A mountain village of 400 inhabitants, medieval alleys and views of the Maritime Alps.
The landscape drops from three-thousanders to the Mediterranean in just 50 kilometers. This shapes everything: the climate, the cuisine, the way of life. And it makes this area so diverse.
Airole - Arriving in the Mountain Village
The alleys are narrow and winding, the stairs steep, the houses built from the gray stone of the mountains. Airole is neither a museum nor a tourist resort. People live here - since the Middle Ages.
On the piazza people meet for espresso or aperitivo. The shop has everything for daily needs. The restaurants cook Ligurian, with what the area provides: rabbit in Rossese wine, Torta Verde, olive oil from the terraces next door.
The village sits on a rocky outcrop above the Roya River. In summer you can swim in the river below. In autumn it smells of freshly pressed olive oil - when the mills are running. In winter the fireplaces burn.
Mountains and Sea - Both Close
Hiking & Nature
The trails start at the village edge. No drive, no parking lot - just go.
Hiking trails from your doorstep. Monte Abellio with views to Corsica. Ancient salt trade paths to France. Mercantour National Park an hour away.
All Hiking Routes
Beaches & Swimming
The sea is 12 kilometers away. In fifteen minutes you're at the beach.
The sea is 12 kilometers away. Balzi Rossi at the French border. The Laghetti di Rocchetta - natural pools in the river. Cool water even in midsummer.
All Swimming SpotsExplore the Region
Mittelalterliche Dörfer, lokale Küche, Märkte und Sportmöglichkeiten - es gibt viel zu erkunden.
Villages & Culture
Dolceacqua with its bridge that Monet painted. Apricale, one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Monaco, Nice, San Remo - all within reach.
Food & Wine
Ligurian cuisine in Airole: rabbit in Rossese wine, Torta Verde, olive oil from next door. Three restaurants, two bars, one village shop.
Shopping & Markets
The Mercato Coperto in Ventimiglia: fish, cheese, fruit, vegetables - every day except Sunday. Fridays the big weekly market.
Sports & Adventure
Climbing in Finale Ligure, canyoning in the Roya Valley, mountain biking on old mule trails. In winter, skiing in Limone Piemonte.
Curious?
The region is not developed for mass tourism, perhaps that's what makes it interesting. Morning on the mountain, afternoon at the beach - both are possible, both are close.