One of France‘s most stunning natural areas is the Gorge du Verdon! Get on a kayak and paddle up the river’s turquoise water while admiring the massive limestone cliffs above you and feeling the cool water on your fingers. You’ll witness people wading into the ocean, relaxing on the secluded beaches, and scaling the rocky gorge at every corner. You must see the Gorges du Verdon if you travel to France. Here, you can find all you need for a trip to this natural spot.
The history & Introduction of Gorge du Verdon
The Provence sunk and was submerged by the sea during the Triassic epoch, leaving behind vast layers of different limestone formations. The Jurassic epoch began a few million years later and brought a warm, shallow sea that allowed different coral species to flourish. The sea eventually reached the present-day site of the Alps, which were themselves built during the Tertiary period, while Basse Provence was uplifted during the Cretaceous period. Many of the Jurassic limestone deposits broke as a result of the extensive geological activity, creating relief with valleys and other characteristics. The Verdon Gorge’s beginnings can be found in this time period.
The road of Gorge du Verdon
The suggested Gorges du Verdon circuit begins at Moustiers Sainte Marie, a really charming small town that tends to become congested during the busiest travel times. Without pauses, the route from Trigance to the starting point is around 90 km long and takes just under two hours. Additionally, count for a longer period of time since you are probably going to stop frequently. The D71 and the D23 offer the best vistas of the gorge. Be aware that both of these roads have several hairpin curves and are somewhat small.
Vultures and Cliffs of Gorge du Verdon
The cliffs range in height from 250 to 700 meters, and many encounters have occurred there. Numerous birds, such as griffon and cinereous vultures, make their nests there, and in the morning, you can watch them soar above Rougon from the village as they warm their wings. Guaranteed thrills and excitement.
Verdon’s emerald green waters
There are many recreational options for safe, supervised white water sports, including canyoning, rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. Located at the end of the Gorges du Verdon, the lake of Sainte-Croix is the perfect place to round off your journey, take the family sailing or windsurfing, or relax.
Some activities you can do at the Gorge du Verdon
Travelers will find the Gorges du Verdon a paradise of themselves. You have the option of going easy or extreme. Road trips with breathtaking perspectives, journeys to tiny towns, hiking, rock climbing, lounging on the coast of Lac de Sainte-Croix, and various extreme and water activities are all possibilities.
Renting a paddleboard or kayak at Lac de Sainte-Croix will allow you to experience the Gorges du Verdon in a genuinely delightful and not overly taxing way. It’s quite an experience paddling through the emerald-green water and letting it run over your fingers. Bring your kayak close to the shore so you may admire the daring cliff jumpers. Given that this is a fairly popular activity, get there early in the day. On the Lac de Sainte shoreline, Croix’s enjoy a picnic and some downtime.
The view from the Galetas Bridge is incredible. Lac de Sainte-Croix may be seen from one side of the bridge, while the Gorges du Verdon can be seen from the other in a picture-perfect clarity. All of the kayaks and pedal boats may be seen moving up the river from this location. You may stand on the bridge and take in the view thanks to the parking.
With all this area’s paths and difficulties, hikers will be in hiking heaven. The Blanc-Martel Trail, a 7-hour climb with breathtaking vistas, is one well-known and well-liked hike. You can hire a guide for this hike to go with you and your group.
With 1,500 available routes, the Gorges du Verdon are also a rock climber’s paradise. There are also more extreme sports like bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, highlining, and paragliding. The Gorges du Verdon undoubtedly appeals to a wide audience.
Kayaking on the Verdon River
One of the most popular activities at Gorges du Verdon is kayaking or paddle boarding. Nothing compares to floating on the clear water and viewing the cliffs below. There are stunning views and numerous little beaches to unwind on around every corner. You can swim anywhere you want, so packing a waterproof backpack for your valuables is an intelligent idea.
The best time to visit the Gorge du Verdon
The best time to travel is during the summer, from June through August. The boat rentals will be available, and the weather will be consistently sunny. Travel during shoulder season to avoid crowds (May or September). Just be mindful that the rentals can be shut down.
Where to stay near the Gorge du Verdon
A day journey to the Gorges du Verdon is possible from various locations in the South of France. Most are a couple of hours’ drive away, so you might instead opt to spend a few days in a nearby town (like we did). Cotignac is the ideal town for an overnight stay because it is convenient for walking, has wonderful restaurants, and is only 35 minutes from the Gorges du Verdon by automobile.
Where to eat in the Gorges?
Castellane’s main square is home to many eateries with terraces. I particularly enjoy the delectable pizzas at the eatery/bar La Taverne (Place Marcel Sauvaire, 04120 Castellane). Head to La Voûte (3 Rue du Mitan, 04120 Castellane), located at the end of the short pedestrian-only street that begins near the square, for a special meal. The restaurant provides a warm welcome and highly affordable menu items. You can select from the cozy interior dining room or the little terrace.
How to get to the Gorge du Verdon
In the South of France, you can find the Gorges du Verdon. The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region especially crosses the departments of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Var.
France’s magnificent Gorges du Verdon is an easy day trip, whether traveling to Aix-en-Provence or the French Riviera. The Gorges du Verdon are about a two-hour drive northwest of the French Riviera. Another excellent option for a South of France itinerary is the Gorges du Verdon, which is home to hilltop towns and lavender farms.
Some tips
Bring an eco-friendly sunscreen that won’t destroy coral reefs against the sun, a hat, Snacks, watertight bag, and consuming water.
Please be aware that music is not permitted inside the canyon.
