SIGHTSEEING
LA MALA
One of the prettiest and most popular walks is on the coastal pathway that envelops Cap d ’ Ail , starting from Plage Marquet at the border of Monaco all the way to Plage de La Mala , a popular summertime destination .
The walk is officially known as Le Sentier du Litoral and takes about 45 minutes to walk one way so an hour and a half in total . Thanks to its relatively easy terrain it is perfectly suited to even the youngest of hikers ! Although you might be asked for a piggyback ride up the few stairs that lead to the beach , it is the ideal way to get some fresh air and use up some of that surplus energy .
The trail starts at the Plage Marquet parking , where two hours will cost you around 3 €, and the well-paved entrance that marks the beginning of the coastal walk is impossible to miss . As soon as you turn the corner you see the splendid pathway stretched out in front of you , moving sinuously and harmoniously with the shape of the coastline . It is such a beautiful walk that you would like to visit it again and again and always be taken aback by the splendour of your surroundings .
Even in the winter months the trail is full of life , attracting locals looking for a quiet place to sit in the sun while they enjoy their books or fishing perched on the coastal rocks . The trail is also the perfect place to head for a picnic by the seaside . There are designated picnic areas with well-kept tables all year round , or for those wanting to make the most of the location , lay a blanket on the slanted rocks by the seashore for a more rustic experience . Just be ready for the occasional salty spray from the crashing waves !
As you make your way around the coast , there are informational plaques about the diverse flora and fauna that surround the colourful trail , describing the formation and use of the various Mediterranean plants that protect the coastline against wind and water erosion , including Tamarix shrubs and Cannes de Provence . You also learn about coastline creatures such as the European conger , a species of eel that lives deep in the rock formations , and lobsters that are hunted by these
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