Twelve years after it was first closed for construction, the Tende Tunnel linking south-east France to northern Italy will finally reopen on 27 June 2025. For residents and travellers, this marks the end of long detours and disrupted journeys. But if you’re considering buying property in this part of France, the reopening is more than just a transport upgrade – it could be the beginning of a serious opportunity.
The Tende Tunnel is a key connection between the Alpes-Maritimes region and Italy’s Piedmont. Since 2013, its closure has made accessing some of France’s most scenic, characterful locations far more complicated. Now, with that link restored, the Roya Valley and nearby mountain villages are becoming significantly easier to reach.
If you’re looking for an affordable French home in a peaceful, underexplored area – or considering a cross-border lifestyle – the timing couldn’t be better. This long-awaited infrastructure change may reshape your property search.
With the tunnel reopened, the drive between France and Italy is now significantly faster
A more accessible part of France
The Tende Tunnel is located in the Alpes-Maritimes, close to the village of Tende and the Italian border. Before its closure in 2013, it provided a vital link between the Côte d’Azur and the Italian region of Piedmont. Since then, drivers have had to follow a long detour that increased journey times by up to threefold.
With the tunnel’s reopening, that direct connection is restored. For you as a potential buyer, that means faster, more reliable access to some of France’s most scenic and historically rich regions. Whether you’re travelling from Italy or looking to explore property options on both sides of the border, the improved journey makes the area far more practical to view and enjoy.
If you’re unsure where to start, begin by asking: can you buy property in France? The answer is almost certainly yes, and our guide explains how to go about it with confidence.
What this means for you as a buyer
The south-east of France, especially the areas around Tende and the Roya Valley, is ideal if you want a property that offers both mountain living and access to the Mediterranean. Here, you’ll find peaceful villages, nature reserves, and a slower pace of life – all while still being within reach of Nice and the Riviera coastline.
Improved infrastructure often boosts local property demand. As travel becomes easier, villages that were previously overlooked start to attract attention. That can lead to better services, more renovation opportunities, and growing appeal for holiday lets or long-term investment.
If you’re thinking seriously about a move, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the French property buying process. Understanding how purchases are structured in France – especially the role of the notaire and the formal contract stages – will help you plan more effectively.
A positive step for environmentally aware buyers
The tunnel’s reopening also makes cross-border travel more efficient, reducing unnecessary detours and their environmental impact. If you’re planning a viewing trip or imagining a lifestyle that blends both French and Italian cultures, shorter journeys mean lower emissions – and a more sustainable move overall.
This improvement in transport is likely to enhance the area’s long-term property value, too. Our article on property investment in France explores how infrastructure, location, and timing all play a part in finding the right opportunity.
Planning your next steps
Now that the tunnel is due to reopen, the south-east deserves a closer look. Villages such as Saorge, La Brigue and Breil-sur-Roya offer characterful homes, mountain views and – thanks to this change – greater accessibility than they’ve had in over a decade.
If you’re ready to explore this part of France, speak to one of our property consultants. We’ll help you build a plan tailored to your budget, timeline and goals – connecting you with reliable estate agents, legal experts and currency specialists to guide you through every stage of your move.
