Before becoming a pebble beach popular all year round (and even featured in the movie Brice de Nice, how cool is that!), the Military Baths area was truly a piece of maritime life. The Vivier Véran was born here at the end of the 19th century, built on the remnants of the old Lazaret. Back then, two pools were dedicated to breeding fish and lobsters, contributing to the local economy and food supply. Over time, the site evolved. In the 1940s, one of the pools was incorporated into the neighboring water sports center. The other, however, took a more... delicious turn. In the 1960s, it was raised to make way for a fish restaurant, which today is closed and has been left abandoned for nearly ten years.
Why this demolition, and why only part of it?
-end="1875">It’s precisely this late extension, added in the 60s, that’s causing problems today. According to the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture, the advanced state of degradation of this part of the building poses a structural risk. The result: a partial demolition operation has been decided, confirmed by the state services and reported by Les Petites Affiches and France 3 Côte d’Azur.
No way we're going to tear it all down! The historic structure of the pool, built from stone...
It will be fully preserved. The authorities emphasize its heritage value, but also its very concrete role in the balance of the coastline. The Vivier Vénaran indeed contributes to the sedimentary stability of the pebble beach at the Bains Militaires. In other words, it helps keep the beach… a beach! And good news for regular visitors, access to the beach will be maintained throughout the duration of the construction work. The only small constraint to keep in mind is that the showers will be temporarily out of service.