La Brigue
La Brigue is located in the Vallee de la Roya, which runs north from Ventimiglia into the Alps above Tende.
Due to its location in an east-west side valley, which follows the course of the River Levense, La Brigue is one of the sunniest villages in the area. It also avoids the traffic on the main road two kilometres away. It nevertheless has a bustling life of its own.
Place St Martin during Medieval Festival
La Brigue was Italian until local residents voted in a plebiscite to become French. Street names are Italian and local language and culture are French mixed with Italian.
The village has narrow streets that separate natural-stone buildings, some renovated with fresh pastel facades. Notable buildings include:
- the 18th C octagonal Chapelle Saint-Michel opposite the Apartments Les Alpes d’Azur
- the 13th-century St.Martin collegial church with 16th C fountains and 17th C organ
- the Chapelle de l'Annonciation with Renaissance facade and campanile/bell tower
- the ruined 14th C Chateau des Lascaris, which is being partially restored
Les Alpes d’Azur apartments are located in Place de Nice, a large square with interesting buildings including some with ‘trompe-l’oeil’ facades, and a shaded terrace café, the Café des Platanes.
There is a very nice 'epicerie' opposite Les Alpes d'Azur, run by Cedric, which sells just about everything including fresh bagettes and croissants. There is another grocer nearby, an excellent butcher (who will deliver and take advance orders), a post office and several restaurants in La Brigue, including the ever-popular 'Pizzeria Brigasques'.
One of La Brigue's many narrow streets
