This is the secret medieval castle village built into a cliff face

Perched precariously between the dazzling blue of the Mediterranean and the colossal slopes of the coastal mountains lies a mysterious, dual-faced settlement that feels impossibly isolated.

High above, an ancient stone village clings to the cliff, utterly silent and fortified, while below, a chic resort wraps itself around the sun-drenched Cap.

The whole atmosphere is one of profound historical significance, like a forgotten fortress keeping watch over the entire Riviera.

Florian Pépellin, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The phenomenal hidden gem we are talking about is Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, a breathtaking location in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France.

This unique spot is actually two places: the medieval village (Roquebrune) high up on the mountain, and the stunning 1930s resort (Cap-Martin) on the peninsula below.

It offers an incredible holiday for keen walkers seeking a mix of ancient history and coastal luxury.

The village’s enduring secret is its mighty, untouched castle, built in the 10th century and considered the oldest keep in France.

Gilbert Bochenek, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

This fortress, now the Château de Roquebrune, was carved directly into the bedrock of the mountain and offers eerie glimpses into medieval life and defence strategies.

Furthermore, the village is also famous for its ancient, thousand-year-old olive tree, a magnificent, living relic of a truly bygone era.

For practical travellers, be aware that visiting the high village requires some planning, as the streets are steep, winding, and completely pedestrianised, so sturdy boots are essential.

There is a convenient, if small, car park near the entrance to the ancient village, but it fills up fast.

Down on the Cap, facilities are plentiful, but ensure you pack water in your boot before ascending to explore the untouched fortress.

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