Gorges du Verdon
The Grand Canyon of Europe - a spectacular limestone gorge of turquoise water in Provence, for driving, hiking, kayaking and clifftop views.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
The Gorges du Verdon is one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in Europe, where the Verdon river has cut a gorge up to seven hundred metres deep through the limestone of inland Provence, its water an astonishing turquoise. Scenic roads run along both rims with dizzying viewpoints, while below, the river and the lake at its end draw kayakers, swimmers and hikers.
What you actually see
- The clifftop drives - the Route des Cretes and rim roads with dramatic viewpoints.
- The turquoise river - the Verdon's vivid water deep in the gorge.
- Lake Sainte-Croix - the turquoise lake at the gorge mouth, for kayaking and pedalos.
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie - the pretty perched village at the gorge's edge.
When to go
Late spring to early autumn for the river, kayaking and swimming; the drives are open in the warm months. Summer is busy, so early starts help on the narrow rim roads.
Honest expectations
It is deep in inland Provence, so a car is essential and the rim roads are narrow and winding. Summer brings crowds to the lake and viewpoints. The turquoise water is beautiful but the river cold and, in the gorge, for the experienced.
Nearby
The lavender plateau of Valensole and the perched villages of Provence spread around.
What to pack for Gorges du Verdon
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
