Located at 60 km from Nice, Ascros is a perched village in the Alpes-Maritimes. This small village of less than 200 inhabitants comes alive in summer thanks to local festivals and outdoor activities. We have listed for you 5 good reasons to visit this authentic village.
Ascros is a small commune in the Alpes-Maritimes perched on a rocky peak in the Estéron valley. Since 2012, the village is part of the 47 communes of the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Nature Park
The village, located at an altitude of 1150 m, was built on high ground for defensive reasons and offers a magnificent panorama of the Mercantour and the Préalpes de Grasse.
It can be reached either by Puget-Théniers or by the D27 from Nice, passing through the villages of Gilette, Revest-les-Roches, Tourette-du-Château and Toudon.
This winding road, which crosses several state forests offers, already a glimpse of the magnificent surrounding mountain landscapes.
Copyright : Audrey Vautherot
Despite its modest appearance as a perched village nestled high in the mountain, Ascros has a long history dating back to the Bronze Age. Roman inscriptions have also been found here, testifying to the occupation of the place during antiquity.
The commune has preserved several testimonies dating from the Middle Ages, starting with the castle of Ascros, whose remains dominate the village.
Copyright: Audrey Vautherot
The history of this castle, which would have been built in the 11th century, is closely linked to the Grimaldi barony. This is why the village is now part of the Grimaldi historical sites of Monaco (see link below).
As for the village's well-preserved Romanesque church, it dates from the 12th century. Don't hesitate to take the Montée du Pourtaou to get a closer look at the church of Saint-Véran, which seems to be set in the rock.
You can then take the opportunity to contemplate the breathtaking view of the valley and to stroll through the narrow streets of the village.
As a tribute to its rich past, Ascros organizes in July a medieval festival. During the Médiévales 2022, the village had the honor of receiving the visit of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.
The village is usually very lively and animated in summer because of this medieval festival, but also during the patronal festival of Saint-Donat in early August.
The village organizes then competitions of bowls, aubades, several evenings of ball and various animations...
There is no restaurant in Ascros but a table d'hôtes in a farm inn.
La Table du Rousset features farm products and local specialties such as pissaladière, zucchini fritters, daube and ravioli.
It should be noted that the Table du Rousset obtained the Cuisine Nissarde label in 2022.
If you are looking for a quiet destination to recharge your batteries or an unspoiled place to enjoy the mountains, you will surely find your happiness in Ascros.
In this natural corner that has remained authentic, many hiking trails allow you to enjoy the surroundings. In particular, you will be able to climb the Mount Pella which is the highest point of the commune at 1383 m above sea level.
Copyright : Audrey Vautherot
You can also take the trail that starts from the hamlet of Crottes and leads to the Sainte-Baume chapel.
Lovers of wide open spaces and fresh air will be delighted because they can also practice cycling as well as mountain biking and horseback riding.
Author Audrey on 15 May 2024
Travel and Tourism : Stay
Author Audrey on 08 August 2022
Travel and Tourism : Stay