Europe’s Grand Canyon Adventure

Spanning 90 km through Provence’s dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, the Gorges du Verdon is Europe’s deepest canyon (700m). This route offers dizzying viewpoints, medieval villages, and outdoor thrills.

Begin in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a cliffside village famed for its star suspended between two peaks. Fuel up and grab picnic supplies here.

Key Stops & Highlights

1. Aiguines & Lac de Sainte-Croix. Kayak the electric-blue Lac de Sainte-Croix and paddle into the canyon’s mouth.
2. Pont de l’Artuby. Europe’s highest bridge (182m). Bungee jump or photograph the canyon’s layers.
3. Balcons de la Mescla. A vertigo-inducing platform where the Verdon and Artuby Rivers collide.
4. Point Sublime. The canyon’s most iconic viewpoint. Peer 700m down to the Verdon River’s emerald twists.
5. La Palud-sur-Verdon. Base for hiking Sentier Martel, a 15-km trail through tunnels and along the river. Rent bikes or e-bikes here.
6. Route des Crêtes. A 23-km loop with jaw-dropping overlooks like la Maline and Pas de l’Escalès.

Finish in Castellane, a hiker’s hub dominated by the Roc de Castellane cliff. Climb to the 18th-century chapel for sunset views.

Tips for the Drive

• Road Conditions: Narrow, winding roads with sheer drops—avoid RVs and trailers.
• Season: April–June and September–October for fewer crowds; summer brings heat and congestion.
• Activities: Rock climbing, rafting (Class III–IV rapids), and paragliding.
• Fuel: Fill up in Moustiers or Castellane; stations are sparse en route.

For trail maps, rafting permits, and road alerts: www.verdontourisme.com/en/