Train des Pignes (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Train des Pignes?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids pay child fares, love steam locomotives and themed trains, and can mix short walks or citadel visits, yet hard benches, long stretches and scarce toilets may tire under-12s.
Positives:
- Flexible stops: Families can hop off at small stations to explore villages or short trails.
- Interactive learning: Kids enjoy spotting birds, lavender fields and river canyons from the train.
- Family rate: The steam-train offers a special package for 2 adults and 2 children.
Challenges:
- Limited onboard facilities: Regular trains may lack toilets and changing tables; plan station stops.
- Sun exposure: Carriages have open windows; bring hats and sunscreen for kids.
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 kids?
- Historic steam locomotive ride across mountain gorges and lavender fields
- Child fares and family packages keep pricing simple
- Multiple hop-off points for short walks, picnics and chapel visits
- Free audio guide adds stories and facts to entertain kids
- Scenic loop from Côte d’Azur to the Haut Pays in a single day
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a round-trip, a village stop and a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Train des Pignes
Nice CP to Entrevaux train ride:
Ride from Nice CP through olive groves and mountain gorges to Entrevaux.
Tip: Buy tickets early and sit on the left side for the best canyon views.
Steam train at Puget-Théniers:
Switch to the historic steam locomotive with wooden benches for Annot.
Tip: Book the family package in advance to secure seats together.
Chapelle Saint-Jean family walk:
Follow a 1 hr gentle trail from Barrême to a hilltop chapel with valley views.
Tip: Bring plenty of water and let kids look for lizards along the path.
Belvédères de la Dindière picnic:
Walk from St-André-les-Alpes station to a panoramic terrace for lunch.
Tip: Pack simple sandwiches and juice; tables fill up quickly on sunny days.
CP Zou! audio guide:
Use the free app for narrated stories about villages and landscapes.
Tip: Download tracks before you board to avoid mobile data charges.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Train des Pignes
- Book early: Reserve steam-train family tickets weeks in advance to avoid sell-outs.
- Download CP Zou!: Install the app and download guides before your trip to engage kids.
- Seat selection: Choose seats on the left side when leaving Nice for the clearest views.
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)?
Summer days are hot: travel early and bring sun hats. Spring blooms of lavender appear near Puget-Théniers. In late October, book the Halloween train for onboard treats and costumes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Steam-train family package (2 adults + 2 children) | EUR 60 |
| Regular train return tickets: adults | EUR 48 |
| Regular train return tickets: children | EUR 36 |
| Picnic snacks | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 164 |
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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