The incredible £2.4m plan for new road in Europe to link the Alps to the sea

Have you ever thought of a cycling route or hiking trail that not only goes through two countries, but also features through two very different landscapes with views of the sea and mountains?

An incredible new hiking and bicycle route is being created linking both Italy and France with incredible vistas of the Alps and the Mediterranean sea.

Launched in 2023, the Franco-Italian initiative, ALCOTRA RivierALP, is a cross-border project of about £2.4 million co-funded by the European Union which is set to be completed by 2026.

Marie Garcin Zaiter, director of the Menton tourism office, said: “Linking the sea and the mountains, Italy and France, in a single itinerary represents an important opportunity to promote our exceptional natural and cultural heritage.

“RivierALP is not just a tourism project, but a message of cooperation and sharing.”

The cross-border path, which starts at Limone Piemonte, splits into three main routes leading to Menton, Sanremo, and Imperia.

On the Italian side, the path is accessible through four main valleys: Gesso, Pesio, Ellero, and Tanaro.

The first phase of the project involves defining the route, installing signage, creating a tourist guide, and launching a website to promote the path.

The second phase will include cycling routes on gravel roads for outdoor enthusiasts.

The project is supported by nine cross-border partners from both countries, including municipalities, tourism offices, and natural parks.

The RivierAlp project is part of the European Interreg VI-A France-Italy Alcotra 2021-2027 programme, that aims to create a green station connecting various cross-border hiking, cycling, and walking routes to promote sustainable tourism in the area.

Outdoor enthusiasts treasure the discovery trails in both the upper region of the French Riviera and nearby Italian areas, including the hiking paths of the Mercantour National Park and the Haute Route du Sel.

The aim is to create an exceptional cross-border tourist experience by establishing a green tourism hub that links both territories.