Lieuche
North East of Nice on the RN 202. 2 km after Touet sur Var, take the D28 on the right.
North East of Nice on the RN 202. 2 km after Touet sur Var, take the D28 on the right.
A tiny, narrow panoramic road takes you through wild landscapes of eroded black marl.
At the end of the world, perched on its promontory in the middle of a cirque of wooded mountains, stands the tiny village of Lieuche, as picturesque as you could wish for, with its very old, low, ochre and grey ashlar houses, covered with Roman tiles, and still (just a little) agricultural, as evidenced by its cultivated terraces.
Seigniory of the Faucon de Glandèves family in the 12th century, Lieuche has preserved from its past a large church, Notre Dame de la Nativité, in “rustic baroque” style (17th century), which conceals a rarity inside: one of Louis Bréa's finest works, the Annunciation, dated 1499. You can collect the key, which will open the doors of the church to allow you to admire this marvel, from the very welcoming town hall secretary, on Thursdays only.
The Gorges du Cians, just a few kilometers from Lieuche, are a paradise for hikers. Along the way, you'll discover a spectacular landscape: bright red cliffs sculpted by centuries of erosion, contrasting with the green of the pines and the blue of the water. Among the itineraries not to be missed, the Waterfall Trail is a must. This moderately-difficult route runs alongside the river and offers impressive views of the gorge.
If you're looking for a good place to chow down after a day's exploring around Lieuche, we heartily recommend the Auberge du Nid d'Aigle, in Puget-Théniers. Their wild boar daube is a real delight, simmered with local ingredients and a lot of know-how. For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss their homemade walnut tart, perfect for ending the meal on a sweet note.
You can use our map of Lieuche to find your way around the village. We've included all the village's points of interest (town hall, church, inn...) as well as our recommendations for accommodation in the village. We update this selection every year to offer you the best options.
Church, ND de la Nativite du XVIIth Century.
The Annunciation, painting of Brea.
Votive chapel of St Macaire-St Antoine (17th c),
Chapelle St Pons (1457m, 6 km from the village).
Ruins of the St Ferréol chapel (Benedictine priory).
Hiking: for example, towards Mont Lieuche to the northeast (1759 m)
or towards the Col de Saint-Pons, 1451 meters, where you will find a chapel and a refuge (12 places).
Village feast at the end of June.
Parish feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (first Sunday in October).
Patronal feast (January 14) and pilgrimage to St Macaire (January 15).
Charming inn with a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. Comfortable rooms, good restaurant, great welcome. You'll love your stay!
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Vacation rentals.
After writing this guide to the commune of Lieuche, you sent us several questions about this small village in the Alpes Maritimes department. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
The inhabitants of Lieuche are called “Lieuçois” and “Lieuçoises”. There are around forty permanent residents in the village. The number increases in summer with a few hikers who like to stay in the village.
The village of Lieuche lies at an altitude of 850 meters. The village rises to 1784 meters thanks to Mont Lieuche, which towers above the village. This altitude makes Lieuche a popular destination for hikers.
Rigaud (7 km), Touët sur Var (11 km) et Pierlas (15 km).