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Climbing up to Eze's Botanical Garden |
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Written by Alice Barker
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Tuesday, 15 January 2008 |
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Eze is a very picturesque and much visited village but its "pièce de résistance" is without doubt its botanical garden. To reach it requires further uphill walking but I can assure you that all your efforts will be rewarded. Yet, I must caution those of you who suffer from either hip or knee problems, are heavy smokers or suffer from asthma as you may find it very difficult due to the constant uphill walk - made a little more difficult with a few steps along the way. Taken slowly it's possible for almost anyone no matter what their state of health or fitness. In my view, it's the initial tarmac road leading up to the village that's difficult and tends to put off many people as it has a fairly steep incline. Once you've got past this and slowly wind yout way up the narrow streets you'll be too enchanted by the panoramic views and charming boutiques that are peppered along the way to remember the steep walk up! However, more caution should be mentioned about the path, trodden on by so many years of sight-seers; it can become extremely slippery in the event of rain or slight mist.It is therefore important to keep to the dark reddish central walkway that is slightly rougher and offers more foot grip. Hand rails, generally useful when going up, are a must to use when going back down in inclement weather! But, having said all that, do try and make the climb to the top as it is one of the most spectacular views on the whole French Riviera.
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