After fifteen months of work, the railway connection between Nice, Breil-sur-Roya, and Tende was inaugurated in grand style on Monday, December 15, 2025. This reopening marks the return of a structuring railway axis for the Roya Valley, neighboring areas, and the city of Nice. The line reopens with a secured, modernized infrastructure and an enhanced transport offering.
Rail traffic resumes in the Roya Valley. Closed since September 2024 to allow for extensive construction work, the Nice–Breil–Tende line reopens to the public this Monday, December 15, 2025. This reinstatement comes after fifteen months of work carried out along the entire route. The line is an essential axis for daily travel, economic activity, and tourist service in the area.
This reopening continues the actions undertaken after Storm Alex in October 2020. The climate event caused major damage to railway and road infrastructures in the valley. Emergency connections were restored as early as 2021. However, several areas remained fragile. Technical studies then led to a comprehensive modernization and securing program for the line.
The project required a complete closure to intervene in the most exposed sectors. The work focused on tunnels, bridges, viaducts, railway tracks, earthworks, and signaling. Fourteen kilometers of track were renewed. Twelve sensitive areas were secured. The signaling systems were made more reliable. Several stations were renovated, and Tende station was made accessible.
The operation represents a total investment of 74 million euros. The funding relies on a collective effort. The Sud Region is contributing 54.5 million euros, representing more than 70% of the project. The State is contributing 10.5 million euros. SNCF Réseau contributes 6.3 million euros. Other local authorities complete this funding. Fifty-eight companies were involved in the project.
Several institutional leaders emphasize the significance of this reopening. Philippe Tabarot, Minister of Transport present for the occasion, mentioned “the importance of investing in the modernization and regeneration of our railway network” and recalled that “the State reaffirms its support for essential small lines for regional development.”
Laurent Hottiaux, Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes, highlighted the public service dimension: “by reopening this iconic line, which connects our beautiful city of Nice to our beautiful valley of Roya, we honor this commitment.” The State representative also underscores the cooperation between public services, local authorities, and partners.
Renaud Muselier, President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region, recalled the role played by the train after Storm Alex. “For the Valley, this train is not just any line: it is truly a lifeline.” The regional leader confirms the continuation of regional financial commitment.
An enhanced transport offer from the time of reopening
The reopening is accompanied by a significant increase in the regional transport offer. As of this Monday, December 15, 2025, one train per hour runs between Nice and Breil-sur-Roya. The Nice–Drap section benefits from a train every thirty minutes, with 54 daily services on weekdays. The offer increases by more than 46% as of the service resumption.
Eight renovated AGC trainsets ensure the service. The renovation represents an investment of 24 million euros funded by the Sud Region. The changes concern interior comfort, passenger information, air conditioning, safety, and accessibility. The engines are compatible with biofuels and incorporate pollution-reducing devices.
Ticketing is also evolving. Onboard purchase remains possible without an extra charge. TER tickets are available in five post offices across the valley and the coast. This setup complements ticket machines and online sales.
Starting in 2026, a gradual increase is planned. The announced goal targets over fifty daily services, a more readable schedule, and an enhanced offer during peak hours and tourist periods.
Jean Castex, Chairman and CEO of the SNCF group, speaks of “a secured and sustainable infrastructure” and the possibility of deploying the full ZOU! regional offer on the Nice railway network. The reopening thus marks a new stage for rail mobility in the Roya Valley and adjacent areas.
