One of the most popular trains on the French Riviera is the Train des Pignes that takes passengers through the hills and mountains from Nice to Digne-les-Bains.  It’s a gorgeous trip but it looks as though the train has become a victim of its own popularity.

From June until mid-August the train carried over 130,000 passengers, far more than desirable for a vacation experience. There are only 96 seats which means that many summer trains carry plenty of standees.  Last week the overload was so great that some passengers had to be brought back to Nice in a bus.

The good news is that another train car is on order and should be delivered at the end of the summer with four more ready to roll next summer. Meanwhile, here’s a tip: avoid the early 8.50am departure which tends to be the most crowded.