Fall asleep under a myriad of stars, lulled by the song of the torrent, perhaps accompanied by the mysterious hooting of an owl... Rediscover the calm and tranquillity of a sleep close to the wilderness and far from the hustle and bustle of the city....
The Castel Tournou organic medicinal plant farm welcomes backpackers all year round in its large yurt, and from June to October on its camping site, in a wildly preserved natural setting at an altitude of 1,200m, for a complete change of scenery.
Access is by vehicle (30min on a track from the hamlet of Morignole) or on foot from the village of Tende, and takes 2-3 hours. You can save 45min by going to the very end of the Pia road and parking at the Pia barns. There's a 400m ascent, on a very well-marked trail.
Upon reservation, I can prepare your meals using mostly organic and local produce.
The setting
The yurt is located in a wild mountain forest setting, a stone's throw from the torrent and the forest. Perfect peace and quiet, brightened upė by the sound of waterfalls and birdsong.
The spots
The yurt is spacious and luminous, lovingly built with noble, eco-friendly materials such as sheep's wool insulation and mėlèze parquet flooring. It is situated on the edge of a shady undergrowth bordered by the river and its waterfalls. It offers views of the forest and surrounding mountains. Through its dome, you can contemplate the starry sky from your bed. It sleeps from one to 8 people. A spacious wooden terrace surrounds the yurt, so you can enjoy the sun and the forest.
The sanitary facilities
Dry toilets and outdoor solar showers are available, as well as a small washbasin. Hot water depends on sunshine.
There is also plenty of access to the river and its beautiful waterfalls and basins, for refreshing swims.
Non-organic hygiene products (soaps, shampoos, etc.) are strictly forbidden on the farm.
The amenities
An outdoor summer kitchen with gas stove and barbecue is at your disposal.
You can also recharge your batteries in my house.
It is possible to make a fire (except in dry periods).
Internet access (SFR and Bouygues).
The activities
I can show you around the farm and talk to you about medicinal plants and everyday life in a remote mountain setting.
Whether you're an occasional hiker or an experienced one, you can explore the many trails around the farm, which is an ideal stopping-off point: you can discover the picturesque hamlet of Refrei, climb Mont Bertrand (2,484m) and its breathtaking panorama, discover the dreamlike landscapes of the Marguareis karst massif in the company of chamois and marmots, or go for a swim under the tropical Roueou waterfall...
For canyoning enthusiasts, the river running alongside the farm is a beautiful route, with pretty waterfalls and a few abseils.
For anglers, the river alongside the farm, the Refrei, is open to no-kill fishing.
Mountain activities abound in the Roya valley: hiking, canyoning, paragliding, climbing, horseback riding, donkey rides...
The Merveilles archaeological site, overlooked by Mont Bégo, is also a must-see in the valley.
Other things
The site is isolated. Bring your own food, or remember to book your own meals, prepared mainly with local organic produce and wild plants (per person, excluding drinks: €20).