Parc Départemental de La Valmasque covers 561 hectares (1,386 acres) of parkland stretching from Valbonne to Mougins. You can spot wild boar or foxes as you walk and bike around the oak-pine forests and open prairies and admire the 5-hectare Font Merle lake where you'll find Europe's largest colony of lotus plants, including Nelumbo nucifera (sacred lotus). There are plenty of bird-watching hiding spots, picnic tables, and children's play areas. This nature reserve is easily accessible with car parks spread along the RD 35 Route de la Valmasque near Sophia Antipolis.
Nearby is the Parc Départemental de la Brague that follows the meandering River Brague between Valbonne and Biot. Listen to the warblers and fieldfares as you discover waterfalls and aromatic Mediterranean plants. Car parks and picnic tables are available along RD (minor roads) 604, 4, and 198. Avoid the lower part of the river near Sophia Antipolis, where detergents have begun polluting the water.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
