From the Peloponnese to Paris, 11,000 torchbearers will take turns to make the Olympic flame shine.
On June 18, 2024, the symbol of the Olympics will travel through the roads of the Alpes-Maritimes Department, passing through some of the most iconic locations in the area: Villefranche-sur-Mer, Grasse, Cannes, Valberg, Antibes Juan-les-Pins, La Colmiane Valdeblore, and Nice.
A historic moment begins in Villefranche-sur-Mer Known for its history of diving and freediving, Villefranche-sur-Mer will be the starting point of the Olympic flame’s journey in the Alpes-Maritimes on June 18 at exactly 8:05 AM. Alice Modolo, vice-world champion in freediving, will once again distinguish herself by bringing the flame out of the depths of the Riviera.
Destination Grasse for a fragrant journey In the enchanting setting of Grasse, a city recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO for its unique expertise in the perfume sector and its historic perfume houses such as Fragonard, Gallimard, and Molinard, fragrances intertwine with memories of past eras. The Olympic flame, a universal symbol of peace and excellence, will start at 9 AM from Place du Cours Honore-Cresp. This emblematic place, where history blends with modernity, will become the stage for a moment of rare intensity.
Red carpet in Cannes for the passage of the Olympic flame! In Cannes, the city of stars, the flame will majestically pass in front of the luxurious hotels along the Croisette, before heading to the foot of the Palais des Festivals.
A cycling relay for the flame’s passage in Valberg Valberg, much more than just a winter destination on the Côte d’Azur, invites its visitors to get lost in its green landscapes and winding hiking trails. Julia Pereira, Olympic bronze medalist, will be the ambassador of this stage, descending with the flame on a sled in Valberg.
A magnificent spectacle on the ramparts of Antibes In Antibes, the only French city twinned with the Greek city of Olympia, the Olympic flame will continue its journey, revealing the hidden treasures of the city. Alain Bernard, Olympic medalist in the 100 meters freestyle and ambassador of the Côte d’Azur, will take on the prestigious role of torchbearer.
Tyrolean torchlight procession in La Colmiane La Colmiane, a true oasis of peace for outdoor sports, will open the doors of the Mercantour National Park to the Olympic flame. Like a golden arrow shooting through the sky, the flame will take flight on the Colmiane zip line, the longest in France, zipping 2,663 meters at an impressive speed of over 120 kilometers per hour.
Lighting of the cauldron: a memorable finale in Nice The Olympic flame will conclude its journey through the Alpes-Maritimes with a final stage in Nice, a UNESCO World Heritage city. After a visit to the National Sports Museum, a true celebration of sports history and culture, its journey will start at 5:56 PM from the western part of the Promenade des Anglais. After passing through Place Garibaldi, it will head towards the Port of Nice, reaching its climax with the breathtaking view of the Bay of Angels from the castle hill, before concluding its journey with a grand celebration. At 7:20 PM, the last torchbearer, Sébastien Camus, will light the cauldron on the Promenade des Anglais amidst festivities and various activities.