Pearl of the Maritime Alps, Limone is a cozy, charming mountain village at 1000m of altitude, in the province of Cuneo, which overlooks the imposing peaks at the border with France. Strategic place from which to reach the Ligurian Coast, Monte Carlo and Nice, going through the tunnel of Colle di Tenda and the fascinating Valle Roya, Limone has always been a popular destination, offering both summer and winter many activities for unforgettable holidays, eco-friendly and without the car!
1. Limone, without the car
Limone is one of the 25 Pearls of the Alps, cities that have chosen to offer sustainable services for holidays in armony with the environment. Soft mobility, without car, is strongly encouraged in this small alpine corner! The railway arrived in late 1891, connects Limone to Cuneo, but also to the beautiful city of San Remo, Monte Carlo and Nice. The resort is easily accessible by public transport and then to move around, you will find efficient services. Many hotels are located directly on the ski slopes and the proposals for a walking and cycling holidays are many!
2. Walking in the Natural Park of the Maritime Alps
From spring to late autumn the valleys around Limone become a real paradise for hikers! Just open a map to realize how many paths, all well marked, pass through forests and valleys, until you reach the surrounding peaks, including the territory of large natural parks. From difficult routes, to those suitable for families with small children, the possibilities are many! And you can always rely on local mountain guides to walk safely or nature guides, who will tell you the secrets of plants and flowers that populate the landscape!
3. Mountain biking along the “Via del Sale”
The Maritime Alps are a perfect destination for all mountain bikers, who are looking for excitement, surrounded by cool green forests, on routes suitable for all levels. One of these that you cannot miss, is the Via del Sale, which connects Colle Tenda to Monesi (Liguria) following a dirt path of about 39km built at an altitude between 1800 and 2000m. In ancient times salt was carried by donkeys. Due to maintenance work done by soldiers during the First World War the path has remained in good condition until today: you can go through the alpine road by bike, on foot or on horseback and is part of a European project that aims to encourage mobility without car.
4. The Snow Queen in the Maritime Alps
Limone is one of the first Italian ski resorts, opened in 1937. The district, which opens on the surrounding peaks to the country, is very broad. The “Riserva Bianca” has about 80km of traks and the lifts come up to Monte Alpetta, with its 2.070m. If you like skiing is definitely a destination not to be missed, where you can get directly into the village with your skis on! There are also many paths that you can follow with snowshoes, safely, immersing himself in the silence of the surrounding woods. And there are Snowparks and Kinderpark for the entertainment of children! Ski schools and mountain guides are waiting to help guide you in this wonderful snow-covered valley!
5. Green stay in Limone Piemonte
Even your stay in this Pearl can be eco-friendly, if you choose the right accommodation, in places seeking to reduce their impact on the environment. I especially recommend these two!
The Artisin, a cozy B&B that offers eleven spacious rooms, including some Family Room, to travel with the whole family. Guests can relax in the spa or rent bikes for explorations! Located at a short walk from the center of Limone, but surrounded by greenery, the property is close to riding stables and and ski schools. it was built recently, in wood and natural materials, with green building techniques.
Bragard Hotel, an elegant hotel decorated in alpine style, which offers warm and cozy rooms, delicious breakfast prepared with local produce and a spa with sauna, turkish bath and whirlpool. The hotel offers shuttle service to the departure of the ski facilities … you can easily leave your car at home!
Cover image: limoneturismo.it