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Gorges du Verdon
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Verdon Gorge is a breathtaking canyon in southeastern France, offering unparalleled beauty, dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Located between Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, this natural wonder of Provence is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by stunning scenery.
Access
The Gorges de Verdon are easily accessible from major cities in the south of France. It’s a scenic 2-hour drive from Nice and about 2.5 hours from Marseille. The most convenient way to explore the gorge is by car, allowing for stops at various viewpoints along the way.
There are two main routes into the canyon:
- Route des Crêtes (D23) on the right bank
- Corniche Sublime (D71) on the left bank
Both routes have numerous rest stops offering unique views of the valley and the Verdon River panorama. Be prepared for narrow roads and sharp curves along the way.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryMust-See Sights and Activities
Kayaking and Boating: One of the best ways to experience Verdon Gorge is from the water. Especially at Lac de Sainte-Croix, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats. You’ll have the chance to navigate turquoise waters at your own pace, taking in the stunning bluffs and tranquil atmosphere.
Hiking Trails: Hiking enthusiasts have plenty to explore, from leisurely walks to challenging trails.
- Sentier Blanc-Martel Trail: A popular 16-kilometer trail through the valley with spectacular views.
- Imbut Trail: Another trail that goes deeper into the canyon, ideal for experienced hikers.
Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires. Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation. During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp. Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation. Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.
Spectacular Viewpoints:
- Point Sublime: A must-see for beautiful photos of the canyon.
- Belvédère de L’Escalés and Belvédère de Mayreste: Two great vantage points overlooking the Verdon River.
- Pont de l’Artuby: Known for its breathtaking views and as a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Birdwatching and Wildlife: Verdon Gorge is a paradise for birdwatchers, with griffon vultures and golden eagles often gliding overhead. An early morning visit near the village of Lugon is ideal for spotting these majestic birds.
Climbing: For rock climbing enthusiasts, the limestone cliffs offer over 1,500 routes of varying difficulty. The cliffs near Cavalier and La Palou-sur-Verdon are particularly popular, attracting climbers from around the world.
Where to Stay
While a day trip to the Gorges du Verdon is possible, staying overnight enhances the experience. Options range from cozy bed and breakfasts to campgrounds:
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: This picturesque village is known for its narrow streets, artisan shops, and stunning mountain views.
- La Palou-sur-Verdon: Trails, climbing routes, and kayak rentals are readily available in this village.
- Campsites at Lac de Sainte-Croix: Ideal for families, campsites on the lake’s shores offer boating, swimming, and picnic facilities.
Planning a Visit: Tips and Recommendations
- Timing: Summer is peak tourist season. Arrive early in the morning (around 9:00 a.m.) to avoid crowds. September and October are cooler and less crowded, making them ideal months to visit.
- Safety Precautions: The roads around the canyon are narrow with sharp curves. Those prone to vertigo should be cautious on the Route des Crêtes. Check the weather before participating in activities, as boat rentals may be limited on windy days.
- Essentials: Bring cash, as some vendors and rental facilities do not accept cards. Carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and wear sturdy shoes for hiking.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: As part of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the area has rules to protect its natural beauty. Avoid littering, stay on marked trails, and keep noise to a minimum to protect wildlife.
Opening Hours: The canyon is open year-round. Activity hours (kayak rentals, etc.) vary with the season, typically 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from May to September.
Ticket Prices:
- Kayak/Canoe Rentals: €15 to €30 per hour, depending on the vendor.
- Guided Tours: Hiking and climbing guide fees range from €40 to €80 per person.
- Bungee Jumping: Generally €80-100 at the Artuby Bridge.
What we propose Emma Heidi Take all the stress out of planning your trip! With our experts, you can create the perfect itinerary for you – complete, comfortable, and tailored to all your dreams, wishes, and needs. We take care of every little detail, so you can simply focus on enjoying your journey. We’ve been designing personalized itineraries since 2015, and over the years we’ve created thousands of custom itineraries for happy clients. Save time, avoid confusion – we do the work for you. Our service saves you weeks of searching, reading, comparing, and complicated planning. Instead of wasting endless hours – you receive a ready-to-use, accurate and clear itinerary. A tailor-made itinerary – built just for you. Your itinerary is personally designed based on our experts’ real field experience and genuine feedback from hundreds of travelers – including hidden discoveries and insider tips that don’t appear in any travel guide. Smart accommodation selection – often saves you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. We help you choose verified and recommended places to stay, checking availability for your exact travel dates. Sometimes we suggest hotels not “in the center,” but in safe, convenient, and highly strategic locations – which can significantly reduce travel costs and save you even thousands of dollars. We’re by your side even during the trip. We stay with you throughout your vacation – providing professional help whenever needed. If the weather changes, there’s a strike, a local event, heavy crowds, or any unexpected situation – we are here to update, guide, and adjust your itinerary in real time. Easy-to-use itinerary – with direct navigation links. Your itinerary includes direct Waze / Google Maps links – no need to search for parking addresses, no stress, no mistakes. Just tap – and go. Want to know if it’s really worth it? Take a look at the experiences of travelers who built their personal itinerary with us. Click here and let’s start building the itinerary that will save you time, money, and stress – and turn your vacation into perfection. Of course, your first inquiry is completely free – with no commitment whatsoever. How it works
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