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Verdon Gorge: Cliffs, Canyons, and Crystal-Clear Waters

Benh LIEU SONG, Verdon Gorge Wikivoyage Banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Benh LIEU SONG, Verdon Gorge Wikivoyage Banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Verdon Gorge? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Verdon Gorge.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Verdon Gorge offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes while also experiencing the unique cultural tapestry of the region. The area is known for its picturesque villages, traditional crafts, and a history that reflects the diverse influences that have shaped its development over the centuries.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Castellane: ⭐ A picturesque old town known for its medieval architecture, including the iconic Roc Chapel perched high above, offering panoramic views and a rich history. Distance in km: 14.38
2. Lac de Sainte-Croix: A man-made lake at the mouth of the gorge, known for its vivid blue waters and leisure activities like swimming, sailing, and pedal boating. Distance in km: 15.24
3. Notre-Dame de Beauvoir: ⭐ ⭐ An ancient pilgrimage chapel dating back to the 12th century, nestled high above Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, offering serene views and a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. Distance in km: 15.74
4. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: ⭐ ⭐ Perched on a rocky cliff, this charming village is famous for its faience ceramics and the star suspended between two cliffs, offering a picturesque setting and artisan shops. Distance in km: 15.75
5. Riez Roman Ruins: ⭐ Explore the remnants of a Roman settlement, including a well-preserved colonnade, baths, and artifacts, offering a window into the ancient past of the region. Distance in km: 24.16
6. The Prehistoric Museum in Quinson: ⭐ This museum offers insights into the prehistoric inhabitants of the Verdon region, featuring interactive exhibits and reconstructions of ancient dwellings. Distance in km: 28.34
7. Lavender Fields of Valensole: Best visited in the summer months, the lavender fields of Valensole offer iconic views of Provence and a sensory experience with their vibrant colors and scents. Distance in km: 36.39
8. Villa et Jardins de la Villa Noailles: An early modernist house in Hyères, known for its architectural significance and beautiful gardens. Distance in km: 44.1
9. Musée International de la Parfumerie: Located in Grasse, this museum is dedicated to the history of perfume, showcasing its importance in the region's cultural heritage. Distance in km: 45.18
10. Grasse Perfumeries: ⭐ Grasse is considered the world's capital of perfume. Visitors can tour perfumeries like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. Distance in km: 45.23
11. Massif de l'Esterel: ⭐ A volcanic mountain range with dramatic landscapes, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Distance in km: 45.23

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Verdon Gorge offers a serene escape into nature with its stunning landscapes and tranquil environment. Visitors can expect to find a mix of lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and calming waters that provide an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The area is renowned for its natural beauty and offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations.

1. Gorges du Verdon: A stunning river canyon known as the 'Grand Canyon of Europe'.

The Gorges du Verdon is a breathtaking river canyon in southeastern France, renowned for its turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. Visitors can engage in various activities such as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and scenic drives along the rim. The area offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels, providing spectacular views of the gorge and the surrounding natural beauty.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
2. Lac de Sainte-Croix: A large artificial lake at the end of the Verdon Gorge.

Lac de Sainte-Croix is a picturesque reservoir that marks the end of the Verdon Gorge. It's a popular spot for swimming, sailing, and picnicking, with several beaches and water sports facilities. The lake is surrounded by charming villages and offers a peaceful environment for relaxation and enjoying the stunning natural scenery.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
3. Plateau de Valensole: A vast plateau known for its lavender fields.

The Plateau de Valensole is famous for its endless fields of lavender, especially stunning during the blooming season from late June to early August. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks among the fragrant fields, visit local distilleries and shops selling lavender products, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
4. Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon: A regional natural park encompassing the Verdon Gorge and surrounding areas.

Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon offers diverse landscapes, from deep gorges and cliffs to lush forests and plateaus. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring charming Provencal villages. It's a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Jardin Botanique des Cordeliers: A botanical garden in the nearby town of Digne-les-Bains.

The Jardin Botanique des Cordeliers is a small but charming botanical garden located in Digne-les-Bains, not far from the Verdon Gorge. It features a variety of plant species, including many native to the region. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden, learn about local flora, and relax in a serene setting.

Type: garden | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist Office of Aiguines

Tourist information center

Address: 1 Place de la Mairie, 83630 Aiguines, France
2. Verdon Tourisme - Accueil touristique de La Palud-sur-Verdon

Tourist information center

Address: Le Château, 04120 La Palud-sur-Verdon, France
3. Tourist Office of Salles sur Verdon

Tourist information center

Address: Place Font Freye, 83630 Les Salles-sur-Verdon, France
4. Office du Tourisme de Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Tourist information center

Address: Maison Lucie, 6 Place de l'Eglise, 04360 Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, France
5. Bureau d'information touristique de Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

Tourist information center

Address: Le Village, 04500 Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, France
6. Lacs et Gorges du Verdon Tourisme

Tourist information center

Address: 242 Av. Albert 1er, 83630 Aups, France
7. Point d'Information Touristique de Trigance

Tourist information center

Address: 1480 Rte de la Cornuelle, 83840 Trigance, France
8. Tourist Information Center

Tourist information center

Address: 2 Bd Saint-Michel, 04120 Castellane, France
9. Verdon Tourism - Tourist Home De Colmars-Les-Alpes

Tourist information center

Address: Ancienne Auberge Fleurie, 04370 Colmars, France
10. Office de tourisme de Bauduen

Tourist information center

Address: 60 Rue Grande, 83630 Bauduen, France
11. Verdon Tourisme - Accueil touristique d'Annot

Tourist information center

Address: 40 Pl. du Germe, 04240 Annot, France
12. Office de Tourisme de Régusse

Tourist information center

Address: 46 bis Cr Alexandre Gariel, 83630 Régusse, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Verdon Gorge?

Verdon Gorge offers a variety of ways to explore its stunning landscapes. Walking is a popular option for those who want to immerse themselves in nature, with numerous trails available for different skill levels. Public transportation is limited, so visitors often rely on personal vehicles or organized tours. Cycling is another great way to experience the area, with scenic routes available for both casual and experienced cyclists.

For those looking to explore on foot, the Sentier Blanc-Martel is a well-known hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the gorge. Public transportation options are sparse, but local buses can connect you to nearby towns like Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Ride-sharing services are not widely available, so planning ahead is advisable. Bike rentals are offered in nearby towns, providing a convenient way to explore the area at your own pace. It's important to carry water and snacks, as amenities can be limited in the more remote areas of the gorge. Additionally, checking the weather and trail conditions before setting out is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.