Are you planning a holiday between the French Riviera and western Liguria and looking for a strategic place to stay?

Book directly through the official website and choose the apartment that best suits your stay.

The area between Nice, Menton, Ventimiglia, Bordighera, Sanremo and Imperia offers an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences: beaches, medieval villages, mountains, hiking trails, Ligurian cuisine, markets, history and nature.

But there is another side of Liguria waiting to be discovered: the countryside and mountains of the inland area.

Just a short distance from the coast lies the Nervia Valley, with charming villages such as Dolceacqua, Apricale, Pigna and Rocchetta Nervina.

And this is where Casa del Sole is located, in the heart of Rocchetta Nervina: an ideal base for travellers who want to combine a peaceful stay in nature with day trips to the Italian Riviera and the French Riviera.

In this guide, discover what to see between Nice and Imperia and why Rocchetta Nervina can be an excellent base for exploring this fascinating area.

A Holiday Between France and Liguria

One of the most interesting features of this part of the Mediterranean is the possibility of combining very different experiences during the same holiday.

In one trip, you can go from:

French Riviera → seaside towns → medieval villages → mountains → rivers → hiking → Ligurian cuisine

You can spend one day walking along the seafront in Menton, visit the historic centre of Ventimiglia the next day, and then enjoy the nature of the Nervia Valley.

This variety makes the area between France and the Province of Imperia particularly attractive for a holiday lasting several days.

What to See on the French Riviera

Nice

Nice is one of the main destinations on the French Riviera.

The Old Town, Promenade des Anglais, seafront, markets and characteristic neighbourhoods make it possible to spend a full day enjoying the sea, culture and Mediterranean atmosphere.

If you stay in the Rocchetta Nervina area, Nice can be included as part of a wider itinerary between France and Italy.

Tip: allow at least one full day to explore the city, especially if it is your first visit.

Menton

Located close to the Italian border, Menton is one of the most charming destinations on the French Riviera for travellers looking to combine beaches, a historic centre and a Mediterranean atmosphere.

Its colourful Old Town, gardens and seafront make Menton an enjoyable destination throughout much of the year.

Its location also makes it easy to include in an itinerary combining Ventimiglia and the Italian Riviera.

What to See in the Province of Imperia

Ventimiglia

Crossing the French border brings you to Ventimiglia, one of the main towns in the Province of Imperia.

The town combines beaches, history and culture.

Take time to explore the historic centre and discover the areas of natural and archaeological interest around the town.

Ventimiglia is also an important connection point between Liguria and the French Riviera.

Bordighera

Continuing along the Italian Riviera, you reach Bordighera, known for its seafront, historic centre and beautiful gardens.

Bordighera is ideal for travellers who want to combine a relaxing day by the sea with a walk through an historic Ligurian village.

It can easily be included in the same itinerary as Ventimiglia, Dolceacqua and the Nervia Valley.

Sanremo

Further east lies Sanremo, one of the best-known destinations on the Italian Riviera.

The city is famous for the Italian Song Festival, the Ariston Theatre, the Casino, the historic La Pigna district and its seafront.

Sanremo offers a livelier side of Liguria, very different from the peaceful atmosphere of the small inland villages.

Imperia

Continuing east along the coast, you reach Imperia, a city formed by the historic areas of Porto Maurizio and Oneglia.

The area offers beaches, coastal walks, historic districts, local food and traditions connected particularly to olive oil and fishing.

For travellers with several days available, Imperia can be included as one of the stops on a wider journey along the Italian Riviera.

The Inland Province of Imperia: the Nervia Valley

While the coast offers beaches and lively towns, the inland area reveals a completely different landscape.

The Nervia Valley is characterised by mountains, forests, streams and small medieval villages.

It is an ideal destination for those looking for:

• nature;
• hiking;
• canyoning;
• historic villages;
• local cuisine;
• peace and quiet;
• slow tourism.

And right in the heart of the Nervia Valley lies Rocchetta Nervina.

Rocchetta Nervina: An Ideal Base Between Liguria and the French Riviera

Book directly through the official website and choose the apartment that best suits your stay.

Rocchetta Nervina is a small village in the inland area of the Province of Imperia, best known for the Rio Barbaira, its natural pools and outdoor activities.

Its location makes it possible to enjoy a completely different experience from the busy coastal resorts.

Here you can start your day walking through the village's narrow streets, enjoy the surrounding nature and then organise a day trip to the coast or France.

The natural pools of the Rio Barbaira and the canyon are among the area's main natural attractions. Casa del Sole is located in the centre of Rocchetta Nervina, with the natural pools just a short walk from the property.

[INTERNAL LINK – insert here: “Laghetti di Rocchetta Nervina: complete guide”]

Dolceacqua: One of the Villages You Should Not Miss

From Rocchetta Nervina you can reach Dolceacqua, one of the best-known villages in western Liguria.

The village is famous for:

• its medieval bridge;
• Doria Castle;
• the historic centre;
• its narrow lanes;
• Rossese di Dolceacqua wine;
• panoramic views over the valley.

Dolceacqua is a perfect destination to combine with Rocchetta Nervina during a day dedicated to discovering Liguria's medieval villages.

[INTERNAL LINK – insert here: existing article about places to visit near Rocchetta Nervina]

Apricale and Pigna

The itinerary can continue towards other villages in the Nervia Valley.

Apricale

Apricale is a charming medieval village perched on the hills of inland Liguria.

Walking through its narrow streets and small squares allows you to discover a quieter and more authentic side of Liguria.

Pigna

Pigna offers a different atmosphere, with its historic centre, traditional architecture and surrounding mountain landscape.

It is an interesting destination for travellers who want to spend more time exploring the inland area.

From the Sea to the Mountains in One Holiday

One of the great advantages of staying in the Rocchetta Nervina area is the possibility of creating a varied holiday.

You can alternate:

A Day by the Sea

Ventimiglia, Bordighera or other destinations along the Italian Riviera.

A Day in France

Menton, or a longer day trip to Nice and the French Riviera.

A Day in Nature

Rocchetta Nervina, the Rio Barbaira, the natural pools and hiking trails in the Nervia Valley.

A Day Among Medieval Villages

Dolceacqua, Apricale, Pigna and other small inland villages.

This means you do not have to choose between the sea, mountains or the French Riviera: you can experience all three during the same holiday.

A Perfect 5-Day Itinerary

If you have five days available, you could organise your trip like this.

Day 1 – Rocchetta Nervina and the Nervia Valley

Arrive at Casa del Sole, settle into your apartment and explore the village.

In the afternoon, discover the Rio Barbaira and its natural pools, always checking local conditions and any access information before setting out.

[INTERNAL LINK – insert here: complete guide to the natural pools of Rocchetta Nervina]

Day 2 – Dolceacqua and Apricale

Spend the day exploring the medieval villages of the Nervia Valley.

Discover Dolceacqua and continue towards Apricale.

Day 3 – Ventimiglia and Menton

Plan a day between Italy and France.

Start in Ventimiglia and continue towards Menton, experiencing two different destinations that are geographically very close to each other.

Day 4 – Bordighera and the Italian Riviera

Spend the day on the coast.

Bordighera is a great choice for a relaxing walk, exploring the historic centre and enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere.

If you have enough time, continue towards Sanremo.

Day 5 – Sanremo or Nice

Depending on your interests, spend your final day in Sanremo or plan a longer trip towards Nice.

This itinerary allows you to discover a large part of the area between the French Riviera and the Province of Imperia.

Why Stay in Rocchetta Nervina?

Book directly through the official website and choose the apartment that best suits your stay.

Choosing a small inland village instead of a coastal resort allows you to enjoy a different pace of holiday.

In Rocchetta Nervina you can:

• stay in a peaceful environment;
• have nature right on your doorstep;
• reach the natural pools on foot;
• explore the villages of the Nervia Valley;
• visit the Italian Riviera;
• organise day trips to the French Riviera;
• combine the sea and the mountains.

Casa del Sole is located in the centre of Rocchetta Nervina, with the natural pools just a short walk away, while Dolceacqua and the Riviera can be reached by car.

Where to Stay Between the French Riviera and the Province of Imperia?

If you are looking for accommodation to explore western Liguria, the Nervia Valley and the French Riviera, Casa del Sole offers two independent apartments in Rocchetta Nervina.

Nido dei Laghetti

A cosy option for couples, ideal for a romantic stay surrounded by nature.

Rifugio del Sole

A larger apartment suitable for up to four guests, ideal for families or small groups.

The apartments include a private kitchen, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, heating and other comforts.

The central location in the village also means that restaurants and local services are within easy reach.

For direct bookings, Casa del Sole offers no advance payment and flexible 24-hour check-in.

Casa del Sole: A Base Between Imperia and the French Riviera

You do not necessarily need to stay directly on the coast to explore the Italian Riviera and the French Riviera.

By choosing Rocchetta Nervina, you can enjoy two different experiences during the same holiday:

authentic inland Liguria + day trips to the coast and France.

During the day, you can explore cities, villages and seaside resorts.

In the evening, you can return to the peace and quiet of the Nervia Valley.

This is particularly appealing for travellers who enjoy travelling by car and want to discover several destinations during the same stay.

FAQ – French Riviera, Imperia and Rocchetta Nervina

Is Casa del Sole close to the French Riviera?

Casa del Sole is located in Rocchetta Nervina, in the inland area of the Province of Imperia. Its location makes it possible to organise day trips to the Italian Riviera and the French Riviera.

Can I visit Menton while staying in Rocchetta Nervina?

Yes. Menton can easily be included in an itinerary combining the Nervia Valley, Ventimiglia and the French Riviera.

Can I visit Nice while staying at Casa del Sole?

Yes. If you have a car, Nice can be included as a day trip during a longer holiday in western Liguria and the French Riviera.

What can I visit in the Province of Imperia?

Some of the most interesting destinations include Rocchetta Nervina, Dolceacqua, Apricale, Pigna, Ventimiglia, Bordighera, Sanremo and Imperia.

Where should I stay to explore the Province of Imperia?

Rocchetta Nervina can be an interesting base for travellers who want to combine the inland area with the Italian Riviera. Casa del Sole offers two independent apartments in the centre of the village.

Where should I stay between Liguria and the French Riviera?

One option is to choose an inland location such as Rocchetta Nervina and use it as a base for day trips to the Italian coast and France.

Is it better to stay on the coast or inland?

It depends on the type of holiday you are looking for. The coast is ideal for those who mainly want beaches and lively towns, while the inland area is better suited to travellers looking for peace, nature and medieval villages, while still being able to organise trips to the Riviera and the French Riviera.

Discover Liguria and the French Riviera from Casa del Sole

From the French Riviera to the Province of Imperia, this area offers a unique combination of beaches, mountains, medieval villages, nature and local cuisine.

You can visit Nice and Menton, discover Ventimiglia and Bordighera, continue towards Sanremo and Imperia, and during the same holiday immerse yourself in the nature of the Nervia Valley.

And when you want to escape the busy coastal resorts, you can return to Rocchetta Nervina, in the heart of inland Liguria.

Casa del Sole is waiting for you to discover Liguria and the French Riviera from one peaceful and authentic base.

Book directly through the official website and choose the apartment that best suits your stay.