On the trail of the Route des Grandes Alpes – from Chamonix (Switzerland) to the Côte d’Azur (France)

Are you looking for information about driving tours in the Cote d’Azur region of the South of France?

Drive in motion offer driving tours in this area, which is famous for its scenic coastal roads, picturesque towns, and world-renowned events like the Cannes Film Festival. Some of these tours include breakfast and other amenities, while others are more focused on driving experiences and exploring the region’s famous routes, such as the Route Napoleon.

To participate in a driving tour, you will need to either rent a car from dim or bring your own vehicle. We offer a range of sports cars and super sports cars to suit different budgets and preferences.

During your driving holiday, you can explore the stunning coastal scenery, visit renowned artists’ studios, and take in some of the world-famous events that take place in the region, such as the Cannes Film Festival.

Whether you are a seasoned driver or just looking for a leisurely way to explore the Cote d’Azur, a driving tour can be a great way to experience the beauty and culture of this world-renowned region.

A road trip with cult status, 700 kilometers in length and a difference in altitude of 15,700 meters: this is the Route des Grandes Alpes, which runs from Martigny in Switzerland to Nice on the Côte d’Azur. The tour through the Alps is one of the most beautiful routes in the world. The route leads over 18 passes in the high Alps! Nine of these passes are above 2,000 meters, including the highest road pass in the Alps, the Col de l’Iseran, at 2,770 meters.

Day 1 - Individual arrival to Chamonix

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (usually simply: Chamonix) is a French holiday resort on the border with Switzerland and Italy. Chamonix is located at the foot of Mont Blanc (1035 metres above sea level), the highest mountain in the Alps, and is a well-known ski resort.

Cable cars run all year round to various peaks in the area. Panoramic views can be enjoyed from the Aiguille du Midi above the town. On the way to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian border, you cross huge glacier fields.

We will be happy to provide you with a sports car or super sports car for the tour. You can find an overview of our rental fleet here.

The sports car tour in the French Alps is a dream come true for any car enthusiast. The tour starts in Chamonix, a stunning mountain town at the foot of Mont Blanc. Our first overnight stay is in luxurious mountain chalets, where Kylie Minogue and Sophie Marceau have also stayed.

Personalised luxury: unusual, striking ... This is an exclusive hotel!

This series of sumptuous chalets nestled among fir trees on the mountainside brings the Savoy spirit to the height of charm and luxury: old wood, rare objects, fine details, in an almost baroque spirit with an always sure taste ... Intoxicating! The chef delights guests with contemporary creations: the highlight of an exceptional stay - Guide Michelin

All chalets are equipped with their own outdoor heated Jacuzzi. And a world of luxury opens up to you for your greater well-being…

Day 2 - Driving Tour along the famous alp passes

After brunch, you'll be able to take on some of the most famous alp passes in the world, including Col des Saisies and the Grandes Alpes Route. The Col du Méraillet and the Cormet de Roselend offer breathtaking views of the mountains and the valleys below, while the Col de l'Iseran and the Col de la Madeleine are renowned for their challenging roads and dramatic scenery. The Route de l'Iseran takes you through the heart of the French Alps and is one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

After a long day of driving, you'll spend the night at the Hotel Villa Morelia, a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Villa Morelia - Hotel Castle ****

Villa Morelia was built in the heart of an enclosed park of 1 hectare, with a 360° view of the surrounding mountains. At the gateway to the Mercantour National Park, this unique house is modern and at the same time very connected to its history.

Day 3 - Tour to Le Cantemerle Hotel, Restaurant & Spa

The next day, you'll continue your tour along the Col de la Cayolle, the Col de Valberg, and the Col de la Couillole to Hotel Cantemerle near Nizza.

The Hotel, Restaurant & Spa Le Cantemerle
is a true haven of peace surrounded by nature within a landscaped park of 2 hectares. The hotel offers you an intimate and friendly atmosphere to take full advantage of the leisure and wellness facilities which are available to you for your stay as a couple or with your family.
The hotel has 33 comfortable rooms which will welcome you with Provençal charm. The restaurant « La Table du Cantemerle » welcomes you for delicious « Locavore » gourmet moments: refined and local cuisine concocted by our Chef Benjamin Bourgoin.

Ideally located between Monaco and Cannes, in the hinterland of Nice, the « Evasion Nature » Spa is waiting for you for moments of wellness and relaxation.

Day 4 - The Grand Corniche road

The “Grand Corniche road” is one of the most famous scenic drives in the French Riviera. This beautiful road takes you along the coast, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains. You'll drive through charming towns and villages and experience the unique culture and ambiance of the French Riviera.

Starting from Hotel Cantemerle near Nice, you'll follow the road along the coast, passing through famous towns such as Villefranche-sur-Mer, Beaulieu-sur-Mer, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. You'll also drive through the heart of the stunning Esterel massif, with its rugged red rock formations and lush pine forests.

As you drive along the Grand Corniche road, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the mountains, and be able to stop at various lookout points to take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. You'll also have the opportunity to visit some of the most famous attractions in the region, including the famous Monte Carlo Formula 1 circuit in Monaco, and the luxurious La Croisette promenade in Cannes.

The Grand Corniche road is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the French Riviera. With its breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, this road trip is the perfect way to explore one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

Book now and get ready for an unforgettable journey along the Grand Corniche road.

Day 5 - Col Saint-Michel and medieval villages

Experience the thrill of driving a sports car along the stunning roads of the French countryside with a daily tour from Hotel Cantemerle towards Col Saint-Michel, a beautiful mountain pass with stunning views.

Continue your drive to the Citadelle d'Entrevaux, a historic fortress town that's worth exploring. From there, head towards Pont de la Mariée, a picturesque bridge that crosses the river. Next, drive to Castellet-lès-Sausses, a small medieval village perched on a hilltop. Stop for lunch at restaurant Auberge Quintessence, which is located in a beautiful setting with scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Next, drive to Castellet-lès-Sausses, a small medieval village perched on a hilltop.

From there, head to La Bollène-Vésubie, a picturesque village with a beautiful river and many hiking trails. Finally, drive back to Hotel Cantemerle for some rest and relaxation before dinner.

For dinner, head to Nice and explore the vibrant nightlife scene, which includes many great restaurants and nightclubs.

Book now and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Day 6 - Lugano and Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola

It sounds like a great plan to drive back via the scenic coastal road of the Côte d'Azur and have lunch on the coast. Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Enjoy breakfast at Hotel Cantemerle before setting off on your drive along the coastal road of the Côte d'Azur. Take in the beautiful views of the Mediterranean sea as you drive towards Genoa.

Stop for lunch at one of the many great restaurants on the coast, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other Mediterranean specialties.

After lunch, take the motorway towards Milan and Lugano.

Lugano
Lugano is a city in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino in the south of Switzerland. The Swiss-Mediterranean cultural mix is similar to that in Lombardy in northern Italy. The mix is evident in both the architecture and the cuisine. The city lies on the northern shore of Lake Lugano, a glacial lake surrounded by mountains. The central square Piazza della Riforma is lined with pastel-coloured classicist palazzi.

Late afternoon, arrive at the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola, a luxurious hotel located in Lugano.

Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola - Villa, Art & Gastronomy - Passionate about hospitality for 136 years

Set on the shores of Lake Lugano, this magnificent 5-star resort is a property of immense charm, nestled within a private, subtropical park. Once the home of a noble Russian family, the impressive mansion was transformed into a hotel in 1885.

At 7 pm, take a bus transfer to L'Amorosa, a winery located in the countryside.

The L'Amorosa Farm (Agriturismo)
L'Amorosa is located between the Municipality of Sementina and the Municipality of Gudo, it extends over a land of about 15 hectares, four of which are used for vineyards, two for olive groves, overlooked by the splendid terrace of the restaurant.

The Fattoria l'Amorosa also has 10 romantic rooms furnished with great taste, style and a "unique suite" of its kind, very accurate details, with recognition of "special hotel" by the Michelin guide. Our restaurant offers traditional cuisine with attention to the smallest details with fresh, top quality and seasonal products.

Enjoy an evening menu with wine tasting, where you can sample some of the region's finest wines and traditional Italian cuisine.

Day 7 - Back home via Lake Constance

After breakfast our tour ends and you start your individual journey home.

For those who would like to book an extra night at Lake Constance, we recommend the MentalSpa Resort Fritsch am Berg on the approach to the Pfänder.

We would be happy to book an extra night for you!

Additional services (optionally bookable!)

  • book your dream sports car with us (Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, etc.)
  • Helicopter sightseeing flight or helicopter shuttle (e.g. from Nice to Monaco)
  • Bus shuttle to Nice, Cannes, St. Tropez or Monaco/Monte Carlo
  • Boat tour on a luxury yacht or boat

We look forward to welcoming you and providing you with an unforgettable sports car experience on the Côte d’Azur.

Dream now – book now – drive now!

Images source(s): Hotel Cantemerle, Hotel Villa Morelia, drive in motion, Adobe Stock (Yacht, Champagne, Alpine view), pixabay.com, Hape Bolliger/pixelio.de (Corniche)