Train des Pignes (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Train des Pignes?
What makes it 85% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can hop on and off easily, enjoy gorges, lavender fields and the free audio app, and fit hikes like Annot sandstone loop into the schedule, so independence and value are excellent.
Positives:
- Hop-on/hop-off freedom: You can disembark at any local stop to explore villages at your leisure.
- Panoramic views: The route offers uninterrupted scenery of gorges, olive groves and mountain ridges.
Challenges:
- Limited station services: Small stops often lack restrooms and shops; carry essentials before departure.
- No onboard refreshments: The train has no café car; bring snacks and water for longer journeys.
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 solo trip?
- Scenic narrow-gauge journey through Riviera gorges.
- Free CP Zou! app audio guide enriches the ride.
- Historic Entrevaux ramparts and cobbled lanes.
- Hike pink sandstone trails at Annot.
- Flexible hop-on/hop-off stops in countryside villages.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows a round-trip to Entrevaux with time to explore the village.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Train des Pignes
Narrow-gauge train ride Nice → Entrevaux:
Board at Nice CP for a 1h20m scenic ride through gorges, olive terraces and mountain peaks.
Tip: Buy tickets at least one day in advance to secure a window seat on the left side for canyon views.
Free CP Zou! audio guide:
Stream narration about villages and landmarks along the route via the CP Zou! app.
Tip: Download the app and maps before boarding; carry earphones and a power bank.
Explore Entrevaux medieval village:
Walk from Porte Royale along the 14th-century ramparts to the river loop and back through cobbled lanes.
Tip: Start at the train station and follow signs to the citadel; bring water for the uphill paths.
Hike Sentier des Grès d’Annot:
Take a 1–2h loop from Annot station across pink sandstone formations and thyme-scented hills.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection; follow the marked trail and check train times before you set off.
When is the best time to visit Train des Pignes (Nice, France)?
Visit in late June–July for lavender blooms near Puget-Théniers. In autumn, look for golden chestnut forests. In winter, snow-capped peaks rise above the Provence hills.
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Reviews of Train des Pignes (Nice)
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.
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| One-way train ticket (Nice→Entrevaux) | EUR 12 |
| Lunch in Entrevaux café | EUR 15 |
| Coffee and snack | EUR 3 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 30 |
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
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Train des Pignes
- Seat choice: Sit on the left side from Nice for best river canyon views.
- Advance tickets: Purchase tickets online or early at the station to avoid sold-out rides on weekends.
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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