In this guide, I will take you along the Route Napoléon, which follows the route that Napoleon Bonaparte took when he returned from his exile on the island of Elba in 1815. The route begins in Golfe-Juan on the Mediterranean Sea and stretches all the way to Grenoble in the Alps. The Route Napoléon is a beautiful and varied route that goes through stunning landscapes. Along the way, you can enjoy impressive mountain passes, charming villages, and historical landmarks.

The route starts in the South of France. Of course, you can also drive it from North to South and take a different route back home. One of the other beautiful routes in the South of France is the route de Gorges du Verdon.

N85, but also other route numbers!

The Route Napoléon, also known as the N85, runs past the most beautiful places in Provence and the French Alps. The N85 starts as the D6285 in Cannes, then you head north on the D6185, the D2562, and the D6085. So be sure to pay attention to the road numbers as you drive the route and follow the signs! On the map, a part looks like a highway near Grenoble. This is deceptive. The road is designated as a highway but is a beautiful quiet route, especially in the pre- and post-season.