Menton tourist information
The last French town before the Italian border, Menton is one of the jewels of the Riviera. Its important architectural heritage, its clear waters and planted gardens with various rare specimens are some of the treasures of this region that should not be missed. For a long time now, the town has enjoyed the title of "City of Art and History".
Menton's history started with the lemon. Each year the "Lemon Fest" with its parade of floats decorated with citrus fruits can be seen in winter. The legend claims that it was Eve who planted the first lemon tree on the shores of sunny Menton.
With its subtropical climate, some of the most rare essential oils, such as the mythical tree of the Easter Islands (Sophor Toromiro), is grown here. The many gardens and botanical parks preserves its freshness throughout the year. The greenhouse of the Madonna that has been classified as an historical monument must definetly be visited. This unique place is a garden-museum made up of terraces, pergolas, caves and ponds, which offers a bit of gentleness in a cruel world.
It is also a good idea to take a walk through the old town that is dominated by its bell-tower. The seafront does not have anything of interest to offer.
At the end of the walk, a splendid Belle Epoque residence, Baroque churches, the Palais Carnolès, a bastion of the 17th century of which the yellow tiles of the turrets glitter against the blue sky, can be found ... Menton is an open-air museum! So why not offer yourself a peaceful retreat close to Italy ...
