On the right bank of the Var, at the entrance to the Gorges de la Mescla, Malaussène lies between the river valley and the mountainous terrain of the commune. The village sits on a ridge on the northern slope of Mont Vial, 375 metres above sea level, overlooking the valley. If you are considering Malaussène as a getaway destination, two distinct themes can help you plan: walks in the surrounding area and historic buildings in the village. Options range from the short, very steep footpath to the old village ruins to the longer hike in the Serse Valley.
Location and Getting to Malaussène
Most of the commune consists of valleys and low limestone peaks. Its highest point is the 1,418-metre Col de Serse. The village setting on a ridge and the views over the valley thus meet the varied landscape of the commune.
The village is reached by a narrow, two-kilometre road with several bends. The Chemins de Fer de Provence serve Malaussène from Nice via the Malaussène stop. If you plan to travel by train, check the current timetable and service status before your trip.
Footpaths and Hiking: Two Different Time Budgets
A very steep footpath leads to Malaussène-d’en-Haut, and the walk is estimated to take about 15 minutes. The ruins of the original village and its castle remain there, including impressive Cyclopean walls. A viewpoint looks out over the valley. The estimated duration alone therefore does not describe the route: take its steepness into account when planning this detour, and bear in mind that trail conditions can vary.
For a longer hiking option, the Circuit du Serse starts in Malaussène at an altitude of 380 metres. The 2022 edition of the departmental hiking guide classifies it as a moderate hike lasting three hours and 30 minutes. The route passes through shady undergrowth and by rocks smoothed by erosion in the remote Serse Valley. When comparing the two outings, both the time estimate and their different characteristics are useful: the route to the ruins is short but very steep, while the Circuit is longer and described as moderate. Check trail conditions for the hike separately.
Chapels, Church and Water History
The Chapelle Saint-Joseph dates from the 17th century. It stands on a hilltop and offers views over the Var Valley. The Église Notre Dame de l’Assomption dates from 1639. Its exterior combines Romanesque and Gothic features, along with a square Lombard-style bell tower. The interior is decorated in the Baroque style.
Visits to the Église Notre Dame de l’Assomption are possible after contacting the town hall secretariat in advance and arranging an appointment during town hall opening hours. Check these visiting arrangements again before your visit.
The historic water supply is another notable part of the village’s story. The 40-metre-high Viaduc de la Ratte was built between 1770 and 1775 to carry water to the village of Malaussène. The canal built to supply the village is seven kilometres long; construction began in 1714 and lasted 60 years. Together with the church and the remains of the original village, these features give sightseeing a clear historical focus, while the hiking trails add a landscape perspective to your stay.
Discover more destinations: La Tour, Saint-Martin-Vésubie, La Trinité, Les Ferres, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Entraunes, Fontan, Aspremont
For the broader travel overview: Alpes-Maritimes.
