Discover the Gorge of Verdon in France

Originally, the gorge of Verdon was underwater. During the Triassic era, around 250 million years ago, the sea floor was compressed, forming limestone rock. Later, plate movements made the sea floor rise, forming the alps. The ice age followed, and the glaciers melted and wore away the soft limestone, creating the valleys that are today visible on the gorge’s landscape.

Styx du Verdon

The Sentier Martel, the Sentier du Verdon’s western end, was laid out in 1928 by the Touring Club de France. It is named after explorer Edouard-Alfred Martel (1859-1938), who first visited the Verdon region in 1905 as an employee of the Southeast Electricity Company. He carried out precise geological surveys of the Verdon River. Later, he led an expedition into the region, traveling by foot and boat, and eventually finding a narrow corridor that leads directly to the river.

Trans-Verdon MTB trail

The Trans-Verdon MTB trail in the Verdon gorge offers a wide range of cycling challenges. Starting from a friendly town in the South East of France, it takes you through the steep gorge and high mountain ranges before heading into the singletrack that can be very demanding. A classic Verdon MTB trail, La Descente des 70 Lacets, offers a steep climb and then a rewarding downhill ride through the pine forest.

Lac de Sainte-Croix

The lake is located near the hillside village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which gave its name to the region. This idyllic area is ideal for relaxing and rejuvenation. The surrounding gorges, including the mighty Verdon, provide breathtaking vistas and picturesque villages. You can walk, bike, or drive around the lake’s perimeter.

GR4

The GR4 gorge of Verdon is a renowned hiking trail in France that takes hikers through the beautiful countryside. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail winds through the Verdon Valley, one of the deepest limestone gorges in Europe. Hikers can enjoy both the natural beauty and friendly local villages along this trail. Whether you enjoy a challenging walk or simply taking in the view, the GR4 is a great place to do it.

GR49

Hiking the GR49 gorge of Verdon France is a great way to see the region’s stunning landscapes. This vast limestone plateau is home to many gorges and ravines, many of which are full of shallow green water. You will find a variety of hiking trails in this region, and the trail signs have been redesigned to help you navigate them easily. At the end of each stage, you will reach a village with accommodations, food, and activities. You should pack plenty of water and energy bars. You should also carry a whistle, flashlight, and a map of the area.

Driving to gorge of verdon france

If you’re driving to the Gorges du Verdon in France, you’re in for a treat. The 40-kilometer road that encircles the gorge is a sight to behold. It features breathtaking backdrops and imposing tarmac, and a few photo opportunities abound. If you’re traveling by car, consider parking at the nearby Pont de l’Artuby, which offers a panoramic view of the Gorge and lake.

 

7 Tips For Exploring the Gorges Du Verdon

When traveling to the Gorges du Verdon, there are many things you should know to get the most out of your trip. Here are some tips for traveling around the Gorges du Verdon, from Geography to Hiking and scenic walks. Listed below are 7 tips to help you make the most of your trip. Once you’ve read these tips, you’ll be well on your way to exploring the Gorges du Verdon!

Geography

If you’ve never been to the Gorges du Verdon, you’re in for a treat. This spectacular landscape is unlike anything else on earth. The Grand Canyon is 446km long and 29km wide at its deepest point, but the Gorges du Verdon are only about half as big. The Verdon itself is over 30,000 years old, but it’s only been a national park since 1997.

The impressive gorges were formed by erosion from the Verdon River on limestone plateaus. The canyon’s unique landscape has an alpine and Mediterranean climate, resulting in two different ecosystems within the region. The Verdon National Park is home to more than two thousand species of plants, including three that are endemic to the region. You can also spot several types of vultures in the Gorges, including the Egyptian vulture and Griffon vulture.

The Gorges du Verdon are located about two hours from Marseille and offer an extraordinary relief landscape. They are home to colourful traditional villages, and remarkable flora and fauna. Visiting the Gorges is possible through a number of activities and tours. Canyoning, for instance, can be a great way to experience the gorge’s wildest sections and natural attractions. In addition to hiking, rafting, and scuba diving, you can also take in the spectacular scenery by helicopter or seaplane.

Hiking and scenic walks

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting hike, you should consider hiking in the beautiful Gorges du Verdon. This stunning European river canyon offers several different hiking trails. You can start by walking the Blanc-Martel trail, which starts at chalet Maline and follows the torrent for 8 hours. The hike is not for the faint of heart, but it is a great way to explore the spectacular gorges and enjoy beautiful landscapes.

If you’re in search of a challenging hike, try the Basses Gorges du Verdon, which are located just 15 miles downstream of the Grand Canyon. These beautiful landscapes make for the perfect hiking and scenic walks. You can even try rock climbing or relax on the cliffs overlooking the gorge. There are also many places to visit along the trail, including historic sites and quaint villages.

If you’d like to go on a hiking and scenic walk in the stunning Gorges du Verdon, be sure to check the weather conditions. There is a risk of forest fires in the area, so you may want to check before heading out. The gorge itself is steep and slippery, and you should wear good walking shoes and have a strong head of heights to complete the hike.

Exploring the Gorges du Verdon

If you’re looking for a different type of holiday, you might want to explore the Gorges du Verdon. This mountain region is only 100 km from the Cote d’Azur but is a world apart. To make the most of your visit, you should go in the spring or autumn. The Gorges du Verdon are particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. If you’re thinking about spending the winter there, it’s best to come in summer. The Gorges are also very popular with skiers.

There are many ways to explore the Gorges du Verdon. The most obvious way is by car. You can get to Moustiers Sainte-Marie by car or cab. The road to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a one-way street, so it’s important to have a car that will fit your needs. Then, take the D71, D23, and pont de Sainte-Croix.

Surrounding towns

If you are planning a visit to the stunning Gorges du Verdon, there are many things you should know. The surrounding towns include Rougon and La Palud-sur-Verdon, which are popular with tourists. The Verdon Gorge itself is an exceptional sight, and you will want to take your time and enjoy it to the fullest. If you are unsure of where to stay, you can rent a car and travel to these towns to begin your adventure.

The main tourist attractions in the Gorges du Verdon are Moustiers-Sainte-Mairie and Castellane, which have been named France’s most beautiful villages. The picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Mairie is located on a hillside and is home to the ancient church of St. Marie, built by the monks in the fifth century. There are also ancient Roman ruins in the town of Rougon.

Lac de Sainte-Croix

The deepest gorge in France was carved by the Verdon river, creating a striking landscape with a turquoise-green lake and sheer limestone cliffs. The water’s green color is derived from limestone rock flour, a result of glacial erosion in the French alps, and it reflects the green-blue portion of the visible light spectrum. A visit to this stunning place offers many activities, including a road trip with spectacular views, hiking, rock climbing, and water sports.

Lac de Sainte-Croix is two million acres of emerald water in the heart of the Verdon gorges, nestled between the calcaire plateau of Plan de Canjuers and the mountain plateau of Valensole. Its stunning setting and pristine water make it a must-see. The area is also known for its many natural attractions, including the Sainte-Croix waterfall.

Visit Gorges du Verdon France

You can visit the gorges du Verdon if you are looking for a scenic drive. The Verdon river runs through the Gorges du Verdon, combining Mediterranean and Alpine ecosystems. The river’s canyon plunges over 700 metres/2300 feet into the gorge, and you can drive through it from the towns of Castellane and Moustiers Sainte Marie. There are two roads that take you through the gorges, making the drive an excellent day trip.

The Gorges du Verdon are a regional natural park in the southern part of France. This 21-kilometer-long, 700-meter-deep canyon was carved by the Verdon River thousands of years ago. You can explore the canyon walls by pedal boat or canoe, or you can go on a hike. Aside from hiking, you can also visit the Gorges du Verdon via a boat.

If you’re looking for an adventure, you can go canoeing or pedal boating across the Gorges. Hiking trails are accessible by foot or by bike, and they offer spectacular views of the Gorge and lake. To make the most of your day, you should plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid extreme heat. If you’re worried about narrow roads, you can take the anti-clockwise route around the Gorges du Verdon.

Bungee-jumping

Visiting Quebec’s picturesque Gorges du Verdon region is not a complete vacation without a little bit of adventure! This natural wonder is filled with thrilling activities, including bungee jumping. From the Pont de l’Artuby, which is the highest bridge in Europe, you can experience the thrill of flying 180 meters through the air! While you’re in the region, don’t miss out on a chance to spot several different species of vultures, including the Griffon vulture, black vulture, and Egyptian vulture.

The beautiful surroundings and scenery of the Gorges du Verdon make this activity an unforgettable experience. In addition to the bungee jump, you can take part in canyoning or hiking activities. In most cases, you’ll wear a wetsuit for safety and protection from scrapes from the rocks. The Haut Jabron canyon is only 15 kilometers from Castellane, so it’s perfect for beginners!

Bird watching

If you’ve never been bird watching, you should try it! The Gorges du Verdon, located in Quebec, offer breathtaking views of nature and birds. Several belvederes along the Route des cretes in Palud-sur-Verdon provide close-up views. You can also take a walk through the Verdon’s gorges. For bird watching, head to the rock opposite the village.

A reintroduction of vultures in 1999 has helped the area become a breeding site for the majestic birds. You may be lucky enough to spot a griffon vulture or a black vulture. Various large raptors nest in the gorge, including eagles, griffon vultures, and black vultures. Other birds you might spot in the Gorges du Verdon include a variety of waterfowl, ducks, and swans. You can also try your hand at kayaking or pedal boating in the area.

If you’re a birdwatcher, you should make sure you take a few hours to observe birds in the Gorges du Verdon. There are more than 200 species of birds in the Gorges, and you can spot them from the cliffs, streams, and riverbeds. Birds will also fly over the gorge, which offers a prime spot for fly-fishing.

 

Hiking and Walking Trails in the Gorge of Verdon in France

You can hike or walk in the gorge of Verdon to experience the beauty of this region. Several trails exist, including the Ii Routes Departmentales and L’Imbut – Baou Beni – Vidal trails. The Verdon River flows through this gorge, and you can watch it spout water and fall into the canyon below. Getting a great view of the Gorge of Verdon can be a challenging experience, but it’s worth it.

Around the Gorges du Verdon

Driving Around the Gorges du Verdon France is a great way to experience the area’s breathtaking vistas and untouched nature. Take the Route des Cretes, a 24-kilometer circuit around the canyon that passes through beautiful countryside, medieval towns and turquoise waters. Once you’ve completed this loop, you can hop in a taxi to head back to your car. While driving, remember to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and to follow road signs and markers.

If you’re a keen rafter, the Upper Verdon is perfect for you. This section of the Verdon river is accessible to rafters when the water levels are high, during the spring or fall months. It has a mountain feel and a series of fun rapids, so the water level is usually good during these seasons. It’s also possible to kayak through the lower section of the gorge.

Driving the Gorges du Verdon France circuit can be done in a day from the cities of Nice, Cannes and Antibes. In summer, the route can be very crowded, and long lines of vehicles snake around the gorge at a snail’s pace. To avoid the heat, start early and avoid peak tourist times. If you’re taking a car, make sure to rent it for the duration of your trip.

Ii Routes Departmentales

Ii Routes Departmentales in the Gordon de Verdon France offer a variety of scenic hikes, including one from the town of Aiguines to the lakeside resort of Sainte Croix. This circular trail winds its way through the gorges and stretches of the Verdon River. It is the largest artificial lake in France, and was created by a dam in 1974 to help with the water supply in Provence. The Estelline bus will take you there during the summer. The lakeside town of Les Salles sur Verdon was created after the original village was razed, and local people felt poorly compensated for the loss of their homes.

The route from the north to the south is the best way to see the Gorges du Verdon, although it is steeper and narrower. You’ll encounter many vertiginous drops and one-way roads. Locals say accidents on this route are uncommon, but it’s still best to start early in the morning so as not to be overwhelmed by the heat. If you’re driving on the narrow roads, take the anti-clockwise route.

Ii L’Imbut – Baou Beni – Vidal trails

If you want to get off the beaten path, the gorge of Verdon in France is a must-visit destination. You will find several hiking and walking trails that take you through the vertigo-inducing scenery. The first one, called the Imbut trail, begins in Artignosc-sur-Verdon. It winds through the gorge and on the river bed. This challenging hike will test your physical stamina and balance, with sections through rocky terrain. The hike should last between 5.5 and 6 hours.

The second trail is the Baou Beni trail, which starts at Les Cavaliers Hotel and goes all the way up to Chalet de la Maline. It is a challenging hike, so it is not recommended for beginners. After completing the trail, you will have to return down. The hike back to the top isn’t steep, but you must be prepared to do a lot of climbing. Eventually, you will reach the top and enjoy the dazzling views. Look for rest stops along the way to enjoy the view or to refresh your energy with a picnic lunch or snacks.

Several hiking and walking trails are available in the gorge of Verdon. You can either take a day trip or spend several days exploring the area. The Sentier Martel route and the Lower Verdon Gorge are suitable for both beginners and experts. You can also choose a challenging hike that requires climbing a vertical wall and walking short sections along its walls. The hike will take you through the gorge itself, but you should be prepared to work a bit to ensure your safety.

Iii Route des Crêtes

The Iii Route des Crêtes in Verdun France begins with a steep climb before descending a beautiful mountain stream. This road is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. It is a great way to get up close and personal with the stunning scenery in the Verdon Gorge. Once you reach the top, you can see the gorge and see vultures and warblers circling above you.

Depending on the time of year, you can also try a canoeing/hiking excursion along the scenic ridge. You can also take a walk through some of the caves and lakes. The route is quite steep, so don’t be alarmed if you have to stop for a quick break. A stop at the Sublime Point can be included in the circuit or you can set your GPS to get to the point on your own.

After you’ve had your fill of mountain biking, you can continue to enjoy your trip by hiking along the Route des Cretes. This 20-kilometer trail is a great way to see the incredible scenery in Verdon. This route has many lookouts that are high above the Verdon River. It’s perfectly safe, and it’s possible to walk most of the trail in an hour. You can also find plenty of restaurants and hotels to rest and relax before heading back down to your car.

Blanc – Martel Trail

Hiking the panoramic eight-mile Blanc – Martel Trail through the gorge of Verdon France is an exceptional experience. This beautiful trail winds through a river canyon with steep sections and tunnels. Hikers will be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A challenging section of the trail requires a strong incline. For the intrepid, there are also several shorter trails in the area.

The Blanc – Martel Trail is a one-way walking trail. From Chalet de la Maline, hikers can reach Point Sublime. During the summer, the lavender fields are filled with an aromatic haze. This plateau is also known as the granary of the region, primarily dedicated to growing grain and lavender. Hikers are encouraged to bring their own hiking boots, because this route is steep.

The Gorges are best accessed by car. The nearest large TGV high-speed train stations are in Avignon and Marseille. These cities have international airports and organized tours. If you’re driving yourself, you’ll need to stay off the main roads. However, there are smaller one-lane roads without dividers. If you’re driving, you’ll need to leave at least six hours ahead of time.

Other activities

The Gorges du Verdon are a spectacular river canyon located in South Eastern France. This natural wonder is famous for its cliffs and white-water rapids. Visitors come to this gorge for a number of different activities, such as hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and paragliding. The Gorges du Verdon also have a range of birdlife, including the vultures Griffon and Black.

Hike and bike through the Gorges du Verdon. You can take advantage of the 300 days of sunshine throughout the year to enjoy the beautiful landscape. If you prefer to spend a bit more time hiking, you can do so in one of the nearby towns, like Mezel, which features trails alongside the Gorges and high mountain terrain. You can also take a scenic flight over the Gorges with a paragliding company. There are supported multi-day tours that are particularly recommended.

For less extreme activities, check out the nearby lakes. Chaudanne and Castillon lakes offer canoe and pedalo rentals. The water temperature in these lakes is 27 degrees in the summer, and you can explore the shores by hiking. If you’re interested in Roman history, check out Greoux-les-Bains, an old town built by the Romans and still home to the mineral hot springs.

Canoeing and rafting

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, you’ll find it in the gorge of Verdon, France. This 80 km-long river connects the Southern Alps with the Middle Durance valley. While many people visit during the summer months, there are also plenty of opportunities for water sports such as canoeing and rafting. You’ll find a variety of rafting and kayaking companies in the area.

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, you can go kayaking or rafting in the Verdon. Several lakes have been created in the region. Lac de Castillon, near Castellane, and Lac de Sainte-Croix, in the western gorge, are two of the most popular and accessible. Visitors can use a canoe or kayak to cruise through the canyon, seeing waterfalls and limestone cliffs up close. To rent a boat, simply go to the Galetas bridge and contact one of the companies located there.

If you are new to the sport of rafting and canoeing, you’ll be happy to know that you can enjoy the Gorges du Verdon with a certified guide. You’ll be able to choose a family-friendly rafting tour, or an adrenaline-fueled adventure. Either way, you’ll be sure to have a fantastic time in the French Alps!