The Train des Merveilles departs again today

Starting today, December 15, the Train des Merveilles is back in service. After more than a year of closure, the historic railway line linking Nice to Tende reopens, giving travelers access to one of Europe’s most scenic routes and restoring a vital connection for the Roya Valley.

The renovation works, started after the suspension of service in September 2024, have ensured the safety of the infrastructure and secured continuity for residents, commuters, and sustainable tourism focused on slow, immersive travel.

The Train des Merveilles route crosses daring viaducts, deep gorges, and hilltop villages such as Sospel, Breil-sur-Roya, Fontan, Saorge, La Brigue, and Tende, opening access to the Mercantour National Park and continuing to Cuneo. In less than ninety minutes, the landscape transforms from the blue of the Mediterranean to the first snow-capped peaks of the high valleys, offering a particularly enchanting atmosphere in winter.

Winter experiences and highlights

From February 14 to March 1, 2026, the train departing Nice at 9:32 AM will feature an onboard guide-narrator, accompanying passengers through stories of local history, Alpine landscapes, and railway heritage, turning the journey into an immersive cultural experience.

This winter also introduces Castérino, accessible via shuttle from Breil-sur-Roya. The service runs on weekends from January 10 to March 15, 2026, and daily from February 14 to March 1. The combined train + shuttle ticket (€15 adults, €6.50 children) includes departure from Nice at 8:32 AM, a free day for snowshoeing and Nordic activities, and return at 7:03 PM.

Looking ahead to the next seasons

From April 4 to November 1, 2026, the Train des Merveilles will operate on weekends and public holidays in spring and autumn, and daily from June to September. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the Valley of Wonders, visit the Vallauria Mine, discover medieval villages, and enjoy the region’s traditional festivals.

Additionally, the Train des Neiges provides special connections to the upper valley on weekends and during school holidays, with free luggage storage on shuttles.

Finally, in Breil-sur-Roya, the Train Museum preserves archives, documents, and models telling the story of this unique railway, a natural bridge between the Mediterranean and the Alps.

A journey that starts again today, inviting travelers to rediscover the region slowly, marvel at its beauty, and experience it sustainably. 🚆🏔️