Gorges du VerdonOne of France's most spectacular natural wonders
{{vm.getLabel('Global.Loading')}}
{{getLabel('Filters.Advanced')}}
{{vm.getAdvancedFilterTitle()}}
{{vm.getShowHideAdvancedFilterLabel()}}
{{vm.getShowHideAdvancedFilterLabel()}}
{{vm.getShowHideAdvancedFilterLabel()}}
Show more filters
Search vacation
Search vacation
Search vacation
Search vacation
Discover the Grand Canyon of EuropeOn the border between Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the more southerly department of Var, you'll find the breathtaking Grand Canyon du Verdon or Gorges du Verdon. The Verdon Gorge is one of Europe's greatest natural phenomena, created over millions of years by the erosive force of the Verdon River. The Gorges du Verdon is the most visited attraction in the south of France and can be seen both from the roads up the slopes and from the water. The gorge itself is 21 kilometres long and up to 700 metres deep. The width at its base varies from six metres at its narrowest point to 200 metres at its widest. Measured at the edges at the top, the same measurements are between 200 and 1500 metres. A day trip from the coastYou should set aside a full day to explore the area and more. The historic town of Castellanne, located at the eastern end, is the natural gateway to the area. From Castellane, continue westwards along the D952. Just after the ‘Clue de Chasteuil’ point, you'll come to a fork in the road that you need to take if you want to drive south of the gorge. It crosses a narrow, century-old bridge and is called D955. Continuing on the D952 takes you north of the canyon. Both routes have their own highlights. 
North of the canyonContinuing north of the canyon, you passPoint Sublime, which is one of the best viewpoints in the area. Here you get your first glimpse of the canyon and the viewing platform is aptly named. It is sublime. Signposted paths lead down into the canyon floor. If you follow the northern route, don't forget to loop round via the ‘Route-des-Crêtes’ road, which is absolutely beautiful. South of the gorgeIf you continue along the D955 instead, you'll arrive south of the gorge. After travelling a short distance, you'll come to a side road that is very winding and quite steep, especially on the last stretch to the D71. You will now reach a higher plateau that offers magnificent views of the area. The first stop you should make is at the viewpoint ‘Balcon de Mesclat’. Here you can get down on a small terrace and stare into the depths, well protected behind a railing. The road continues under the name ‘Corniche Sublime’ along the gorges and dizzying river valleys. The road drops suddenly again and offers the most amazing views of Lac de Ste-Croix. Swim in the lake and sail up the Verdon RiverLac de Ste-Croix is a dammed lake with a dam at the western end of the lake. Here, on the eastern shore, there is a bridge over the Verdon Gorge where the river flows into the lake. It's a popular seaside resort with several good child-friendly beaches, and a trip up the Verdon River is not to be missed. It's a fantastic experience. Canoes, kayaks, pedal boats and even battery-powered speedboats are available for hire in several places. Don't forget the sunscreen. The scorching sun and its reflections in the clear mountain water can toast any tourist in record time. Even if you're holidaying down on the coast, we'd definitely recommend spending a day driving up to the Gorges du Verdon. Leave early to make the most of the day and finish with dinner in a small mountain village on the way back. It's an amazing experience that shouldn't be missed. 
|