Marie: Vacation Apartments and Holiday Homes

Landscape

From the rocky spur of Marie, the viewpoints offer views of more than 180° across the valley – from the Gorges du Bancairon and Mont Vial to the peaks of the ski resorts and Mont Mounier.

Those planning a stay in Marie may wish to rent a vacation apartment there.

Culture

The Église Saint-Pons houses a 450 kg polychrome statue of the Virgin Mary carved from olive wood in Genoa, which arrived in Marie on April 16, 1777. Since 1780, it has been carried through the streets of Marie every year by eight men during the patronal festival. Based on its architectural features, the Église Saint-Pons is believed to have existed since at least the 14th century; it is also said to host church services, concerts, and visitors.

The castle of Marie was built in the 14th century by the GRIMALDI de Beuil counts and served more of a representative than a defensive function. The medieval gate of Marie with its pointed arch is believed to have been built at approximately the same time as the castle.

The Saint-Roch Chapel was built along the former royal road from Nice. It contains a painting dated 1637 depicting Saint Roch, Saint Pancras, and Saint Christopher.

Traditions

Marie’s traditional agropastoral economy was based on the use of chestnut groves, forests, and olive groves, as well as livestock farming and the cultivation of wheat and grapevines. Marie’s traditional oil mill is also part of the local history: a mill in the Genoese style that was later powered by water through a water wheel.

Marie’s communal bread oven is used every year during the Fête du four to bake bread and dishes prepared by the Mariols.

Getting Around

FFC gravel circuit no. 11, “Le Tour de Valdeblore,” passes through the village of Marie and over the Col de la Clamia. The Piste de la Clamia offers gravel and mountain bike riders a variety of routes.

Hiking trails in Marie pass through former agricultural areas, forests, and over mountain ridges, as well as leading to the Vacherie de Marie and its alpine pastures.

Other places: Gattiéres, Tournefort, Contes, Saint-Jeannet, Castagniers, Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, Magagnosc, Beausoleil

For the overview of the wider travel region: Alpes-Maritimes.