Exploring the Verdon Gorge: Adventure in the Heart of French Nature.

The Verdon Gorge is one of France’s most impressive natural wonders, a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes. During this trip, participants will have the opportunity to discover the extraordinary views and picturesque corners of this canyon, the second largest in Europe. The Plateau de Valensole, the largest lavender plantation in the world, adds charm to the landscape, especially during the flowering season when the entire field turns purple. The Verdon Gorge also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming in Lake Sainte-Croix or renting a kayak or pedal boat, allowing you to experience its beauty up close.

Travel

Traveling by Renault Grand Espace 2011, a 7-seater car, we invite you to a full-day adventure to the Verdon Gorge – the second deepest canyon in Europe. This full-day car escapade offers unforgettable experiences in the picturesque surroundings of Provence.

Itinerary

We start our journey between 6:00 and 7:00 in the morning to avoid traffic and reach the Verdon Gorge before 10:00. During the first part of the journey, we head west on the highway, then turn north, passing Grasse and reaching an altitude of 1000m above sea level, where we admire the panorama of the French Riviera. After an hour of driving, we plan a stop for coffee or a snack at the traditional Provencal bakery Le Merenda. Then we admire the views of the Gorge from the north bank, stopping for photos at viewpoints.

Around 9:40-9:50, we arrive at Lake Sainte-Croix, where you can rent pedal boats or kayaks to immerse yourself in the heart of the Verdon Gorge. The time for exploring the Gorge, swimming, and taking photos is about 2-2.5 hours. This concludes the “wet part.”

Next, we head to the charming town of Moustiers St. Marie, where we have a longer stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants, tasting local honey beer, artisanal ice cream, and visiting the town, including the option to climb (over 200 steps) to the 13th-century Chapel. Here you can buy interesting souvenirs related to both the Verdon Gorge and the nearby Lavender Fields.

Around 15:00, we start the return journey, this time admiring the Gorge from the south side, reaching the highest point of the trip – over 1000m above sea level. On the way back, three surprises await us, and there is also the opportunity for a short visit to the picturesque artists’ town of St. Paul de Vence.

It’s impossible to list all the attractions that will accompany us on the day of the trip. Beautiful views, wild animals, untamed nature, charming towns, and friendly people – could it be any better? Along a stretch of about 350km, we will see, among others, Grasse, Aiguines, Lake St. Croix, Verdon Gorge, Moustiers St. Marie, Route des Cretes, Monte d’Azur Nature Reserve, Greolieres, Cascades du Salt du Loup, and St. Paul de Vence.

Preparation

As with any trip, it’s worth remembering to dress appropriately for the weather, especially in the summer when swimming is planned. Additionally, a head covering, comfortable shoes, and optionally flip-flops or sandals for changing will be appreciated. The equipment should be finally consulted with the guide.

In summary

The Verdon Gorge guarantees unforgettable experiences, enriched by numerous additional attractions, such as picturesque towns, charming landscapes, and encounters with wildlife. Join our trip and experience a unique adventure in the heart of nature!

Key Information

• option for a small photo session at the Plateau de Valensole – the world’s largest lavender fields (between July 1 and July 15),
• full-day trip, by car Renault Grand Espace (2011, 7-seater),
• with a large group (5, 6 people), small luggage will fit in the trunk,
• from ~6.00 to ~21.00, total distance ~350km,
• participants are picked up from accommodations and dropped off there,
• minimum participant age is 4 years,
• meals / drinks on the participants’ side,
• additional costs such as rental of floating equipment – pedal boat 20€ / 1h (max. 5 people), kayak 15€ / 1h (max. 3 people).

The Verdon Gorge also offers numerous hiking trails for enthusiasts of walking tours, leading to hidden coves and viewpoints.

The Plateau de Valensole is not only a famous location for lavender fields but also offers a wealth of local products, such as lavender honey or handmade soaps and cosmetics.

Lake Sainte-Croix is an artificial reservoir, created in the 1960s as a result of the construction of a dam on the Verdon River.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is renowned for its unique tradition of ceramic production, which has its roots here since the 16th century.

St. Paul de Vence is a charming hilltop village, known for its artistic heritage and magnificent views of the French Riviera.