Gorges du Verdon, France. The breathtaking views, limestone cliffs, and turquoise water attract tourists and locals from every corner of Europe. In the heart of Natural Park, Verdon Gorge is a perfect destination for one-day tip.
While popular destinations have a reputation for disappointing, this place is a wonder. The color of water is just as, if not even more turquoise in real life.
Fun fact: The whole area used to be under the sea (around 250 million years ago)
When to visit:
You don’t have to experience Rome on a Saturday afternoon in August to know that choosing the right time to visit a popular destination is very important. We were incredibly happy with the time and day we chose to visit, which allowed us to enjoy this breathtaking place to the fullest.
Leaving Nice at 8.30 am, we arrived in Gorges du Verdon around 11 am. Right after, we rented boats for 2 hours with no queue. On our way back, there was already a line of people waiting for the boats, but don’t worry, there are many rental places to choose from. Even so, I would still highly recommend visiting Gorge du Verdon in the morning, and preferably during the weekdays.
What to do:
This region is great for hiking, kayaking, climbing, and even paragliding. For sport enthusiasts and nature lovers, there is something to do for everyone.
A paddle boat rental price was 40 euros for 2 hours, and you can take up to 5 people on one boat. You should rent the boat for at least 2 hours to have enough time to explore the canyon. Keep in mind that once you are in the canyon, you can’t swim, play music, or get off the boat. You are there to enjoy nature, views, company, and peacefulness. If you want to do a picnic on the beach and swim, you can do that on the other side of the lake. The reason for such rules is to preserve the area and turquoise milky water.
Where to arrive:
While the area of Natural Park is very vast, you probably want to head for the most famous view of the canyon. If so, set your destination to Pont du Galetas. You can find car parks before and after the bridge, then walk up to capture the most breathtaking view.
Unfortunately, there isn’t any direct public transport that can take you to this amazing place. A car is the best way to visit this area.
Explore the area:
If you are travelling to Gorges du Verdon in the first weeks of July, don’t forget to stop by the beautiful lavender fields of Provence.
Valensol, famous for its lavender and truffles, is the biggest area in France devoted to growing lavender. The blue, violet, and purple-coloured fields stretch as far as the eye can see, and it’s only a 30-minute extra drive from the Verdon Gorge.
Take a 10-minute drive from Gorge du Verdon to find the most beautiful little village with a waterfall running right through the town. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, or simply Moustiers, is considered to be one of the “most beautiful villages of France.”
You can buy local products, have lunch in a restaurant hanging above the waterfall, and wander through steep and beautiful alleys with a cute church overlooking the village. With only 706 residents, this little village becomes full of life with tourists.
What to bring:
The essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, a bikini, a hat, glasses, a power bank, water, and a snack. If you are planning to have a picnic after exploring the canyon, then, of course, you will need a beach blanket and a towel. You’ll have no problem paying with your credit card for water or boat rentals.
“Take only memories, leave only footprints.”
If you decide to visit Gorge du Verdon, respect the National Park. Collect your trash, comply with rules, and respect others.