Train des Pignes (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Train des Pignes?
What makes it 58% Baby-Friendly: Infants travel free and strollers are allowed, but trains lack changing tables, most rural stations have only basic toilets, and aisle space is narrow, so parents need extra planning.
Positives:
- Free baby passage: Children under 4 ride free on all regular and steam services when declared at purchase.
- Stroller-friendly: Modern trains and Annot’s old town have level aisles for smooth stroller access.
- Onboard audio guide: Download the free CP Zou! app for narrated route highlights.
Challenges:
- Limited baby facilities onboard: Only the steam service carriage 33 has a toilet; no changing tables on any train.
- Sparse amenities at small stations: Most stops lack restrooms or baby-care rooms—plan changes at Nice Ville or Digne-les-Bains.
- Summer heat: Trains can warm up by midday—bring sunshade for the stroller and extra water.
What is Train des Pignes?
- A historic narrow-gauge railway line that Chemins de Fer de Provence operates between Nice and Digne-les-Bains
- A 151-kilometer metre-gauge route inaugurated in 1891, featuring both steam locomotives and modern railcars
- A succession of stone viaducts, tunnels, and over seventy rural stations spanning Mediterranean olive groves and alpine gorges
What is so special about Train des Pignes for with baby?
- Scenic narrow-gauge ride from Nice to mountain towns
- Baby under 4 travels free and stroller use is smooth
- Annot offers wide, pram-friendly streets and family-ready cafés
- Historic steam segment adds nostalgic fun
- Free CP Zou! audio app guides you along the route
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time for a return train to Entrevaux, a stroll in Annot and a relaxed picnic with baby breaks.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Train des Pignes
Nice CP → Entrevaux scenic ride:
Board the modern DMU for coastal views, olive terraces and mountain passes.
Tip: Arrive 20 minutes before departure. Choose a window seat and bring snacks for your baby.
Stroll Annot old town:
Wander wide, stroller-friendly alleyways past cafes and sandstone buildings.
Tip: Stop at Café du Commerce for high chairs and easy baby meals around €10–15 each.
Steam train Puget-Théniers ↔ Annot:
Ride 1920s carriages on a historic locomotive through chestnut forests.
Tip: Fold and store your stroller in the service van. Book tickets early for best seats.
Spot lavender meadows:
Glance out at purple fields near Annot in late June and July.
Tip: Bring a lightweight blanket for a quick photo stop on station platforms.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Train des Pignes
- Pre-download CP Zou!: Install and test the free audio guide app before you travel.
- Use Nice Ville nursery: Visit the €1 baby-care room at Nice Ville station hall before boarding Nice CP.
- Book steam segment early: Reserve Puget-Théniers ↔ Annot seats at least two weeks ahead on weekends.
Reviews of Train des Pignes
More Gravel
A superb family experience on this historic train! The staff is dedicated and passionate. The train itself is extraordinary, making this journey an authentic and rejuvenating moment. Thank you.
Krzysztof Rejczak
About the train: The locomotive makes an incredible impression and is in amazing condition. The crew is friendly, and the carriages are in good condition. The only criticism is that the crew didn't wear uniforms, only some T-shirts with the company logo. A slight disappointment. About the route: Departures from the starting and ending stations were on time. However, according to the schedule, the...
Jordy van Tilburg
This is highly recommended! Especially for train enthusiasts. A beautiful locomotive and carriages, stunning views, an antique atmosphere, and wonderful, very friendly staff. They're happy to explain things and do so with passion. I thoroughly enjoyed it! They deserve these five stars!
SteveplusChris
A wonderful day out. Destination Annot is a very interesting place with a medieval centre and there are some good restaurants. Ride a very genuine train with wooden seats, drop down windows and little else, all part of the charm. Tickets can be confusing, we didn't realise we were allocated seats so after twice being asked to move we realised and found our seats that were occupied by two very rud...
Zhendong WU
Stream locomotive of a century still in action! Absolutely amazing to see this machine running just like old times.
When is the best time to visit Train des Pignes (Nice, France)?
Late spring to mid-summer brings lavender blooms and music trains. Summer weekends sell out—book early. In winter, pack layers; open carriages can be chilly.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult round-trip Nice↔Entrevaux tickets | EUR 48 |
| Lunch at Annot café (2 adults + baby) | EUR 30 |
| Nice Ville station nursery use | EUR 1 |
| Extra snacks & drinks | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 89 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Train des Pignes
Address: Groupe d'Etude pour les Chemins de fer de Provence Dépôt des Locomotives, 06260 Puget-Théniers, France
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