Clue du Riolan is a balcony road in France

Clue du Riolan is one of France's most beautiful canyons. Located in the Alpes-Maritimes department of France, it’s one of the French balcony roads.

Clue du Riolan

Where is Clue du Riolan?

Carved by the Riolan River, the canyon is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, in the southeastern part of the country, within the Vallée de l'Esteron (Esteron River Valley). The Clue du Riolan is a stunning example of natural erosion, where water has slowly and beautifully carved deep into the white limestone.

Is the road through Clue du Riolan paved?

The canyon is traversed by the D17, a small, narrow paved road that enters the shaded trench of Clue du Riolan. It’s closed to vehicles taller than 3.5 meters. The road features drop-offs protected by a tiny wall and carries a risk of rock slides. It’s extremely narrow, making it impassable for two medium-sized cars at once. Drive carefully, and make use of the parking spaces provided, which also serve as passing places.

How long is the road through Clue du Riolan?

Carved into the sides of sheer cliffs, the road is 10.2 km (6.33 miles) long, running from the paved D2211A road near La Combe to Roquesteron. The road includes a few unlit, extremely narrow tunnels.

 

 

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