Driving the Route Napoléon: A guide to the most historic road in France
The Route Napoléon is more than just a road; it’s a journey through history. Tracing the path of Napoléon Bonaparte’s triumphant return from exile in 1815, this 324km route winds its way from the sparkling French Riviera to the foothills of the Alps. For drivers, it’s a legendary road trip, combining sweeping mountain passes, incredible scenery, and a tangible sense of the past.
This guide covers everything you need to know to drive this iconic route.
The Route: From the Riviera to the Alps
The N85, as it’s officially known, starts in Golfe-Juan on the coast and finishes in Grenoble. It follows the very route Napoléon and his army took to avoid royalist forces in the Rhône valley. Today, the road is marked by statues of the French Imperial Eagle, guiding you along your journey.
While the entire route is a fantastic experience, the most exhilarating section for drivers is the southern stretch through the Alps Maritimes and Haute Provence. Here, the road scythes through dramatic gorges, climbs over high mountain passes, and navigates stunning plateaus, offering a perfect mix of technical corners and fast, flowing stretches.
Highlights of the Drive
The beauty of the Route Napoléon lies in its variety. One moment you’re cruising past the lavender fields of Provence, and the next you’re tackling a mountain pass with views for miles.
Key highlights include:
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Grasse: The perfume capital of the world is a fantastic starting point, with its historic old town and fragrant perfumeries.
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The Col de Valferrière (1,169m): This is one of the higher passes on the route, offering brilliant views and a series of tight, enjoyable hairpins.
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Sisteron: A stunning town marked by the huge Rocher de la Baume, which looks like it has been split in two. It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch and explore its medieval streets.
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The Plateau de Valensole: If you’re driving in early summer (June-July), you’ll be treated to the incredible sight and scent of vast lavender fields in full bloom.
Tips for Driving the Route Napoléon
Best Time to Go: The ideal time to drive the route is from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is best and all passes are guaranteed to be open.
Which Direction? Driving from south to north follows Napoléon’s historic journey and arguably saves the most dramatic Alpine scenery for the latter part of the drive.
Take Your Time: While you could technically drive the route in a single long day, it’s best enjoyed over two days. This allows for plenty of stops in the charming towns and at scenic viewpoints along the way.
Combine with Other Roads: The Route Napoléon is perfectly positioned to be combined with other legendary drives, such as the Gorges du Verdon, which is just a short and worthwhile detour.
Experience the Route Napoléon with Ultimate Drives
The Route Napoléon offers an unforgettable blend of driving pleasure, stunning landscapes, and rich history. It’s a road trip that should be on every enthusiast’s bucket list.
Ready to embark on this historic journey? The Route Napoléon is a star feature on our Mont Blanc to Monte Carlo Tour, which combines this incredible road with other local highlights for a truly memorable adventure.
Route Napoléon: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where does the Route Napoléon start and finish? A: The historic route starts in Golfe-Juan on the French Riviera and officially ends in Grenoble, covering a distance of 324km (201 miles).
Q: How long does it take to drive the Route Napoléon? A: To drive the full route comfortably and enjoy the sights, it is best to allow two days. It can be driven in one day, but it would be a very long day behind the wheel.
Q: Is the Route Napoléon difficult to drive? A: The road is generally well-maintained and wide enough for modern cars. It features mountain passes with hairpin bends that require concentration, but it is not considered an overly challenging or dangerous road for a competent driver.