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From Montauroux, walk towards Pont des Tuves, also known as Pont des Gabres on the Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne bank. Built in 1802, this stone bridge crosses the Siagne and links the Var with the Alpes-Maritimes. In a wooded valley designated Natura 2000, the bridge overlooks a turquoise-tinted river beside a remarkable tufa waterfall.
Why this hike is worth the detour
Nature and heritage come together here: the historic bridge long provided an important link between Montauroux, Callian and Saint-Cézaire. Old mills and remains in the valley also recall the lives of charcoal burners and farmers who once frequented the gorges. On the other side of the bridge, you discover the waterfall and its limestone deposits.
How do you reach Pont des Tuves?
The official starting point is the car park at the Défens municipal stadium in Montauroux, chemin du Stade (starting-point GPS: 43.633227, 6.782144). The bridge itself lies lower down in the gorges: access by car is prohibited. Follow the path indicated by the Pays de Fayence tourist office, then climb back towards the stadium. The indicative duration is 2 hours 30 minutes for the route described by the office, with a steep, stony descent and climb back up. Walking boots and water are essential.
Before you visit
Take care near the water and waterfall, particularly after rain or a storm: the stones can be very slippery. In summer, check restrictions on access to forested areas due to wildfire risk, in accordance with the prefectural rules in force in 2026. Respect the paths and fragile natural environment.
The extra touch: crossing the bridge takes you into another department: Montauroux is in the Var and Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne in the Alpes-Maritimes.
