Discover the Verdon gorges: a natural jewel at your fingertips
Published on 10/06/2025 by CAMPASUN
When was the last time you took a breath of pure air in the heart of a raw and spectacular nature? The Verdon gorges, located in Provence, between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Var, await you for an unforgettable adventure. And what better than a camping trip to fully enjoy this geological wonder? When you stay at our 3-star campsite Aigle, our 4-star campsite International d’Aups or our 4-star campsite Le Soleil, you are in the heart of a territory between cliffs, turquoise waters, perched villages and mythical trails. Book your stay, prepare your hiking shoes and open your eyes: the gorges of the Verdon await you.
The Gorges du Verdon: three ways to experience adventure
The gorges of the Verdon are discovered in many ways, each with its share of sensations. You are a fan of panoramic tours, passionate about water rides or lovers of hiking and wild trails? This natural jewel of France offers you unforgettable moments. It’s up to you how you live your adventure!
By car, complete freedom on the Crêtes route
You come by car? Good news: you keep the ideal freedom of movement to discover the most beautiful panoramas in the gorges of the Verdon. By driving at your own pace, you can stop as soon as a view calls you, take out the camera or simply enjoy a moment in peace. Do not miss the famous Crêtes road, on the right bank of the canyon: 14 viewpoints are waiting for you to observe the Verdon gorges from all angles. Some viewpoints, such as the Dent d’Aire or the Escalès, leave you speechless in front of the immensity of the landscape.
Canoe, as close to the cliffs
Want a unique point of view? Climb aboard a canoe and glide along the water. Paddling on the Verdon, it’s an experience apart, where the limestone cliffs seem to wrap you. From the Galetas bridge, you can rent canoes, pedal boats or electric boats. Once on the water, you enter the largest canyon in Europe: the Gorges du Verdon. Each stroke of the paddle takes you further into an unusual natural setting, in the heart of a soothing silence, punctuated only by the splashing of water against the hull.
On foot, on the paths of the Verdon between sky and river
Marcher dans les gorges du Verdon, c’est s’imprégner de la nature, prendre le temps de regarder, d’écouter, de respirer. Les sentiers de randonnée serpentent entre falaises et forêts, et vous mènent souvent loin de l’agitation des sites les plus fréquentés. Pour les plus sportifs, la randonnée du sentier Blanc Martel ou l’Imbut promettent des efforts bien récompensés. En famille, vous pouvez opter pour la randonnée du sentier du Lézard ou celui des Pêcheurs, plus accessibles mais tout aussi riches en sensations. Pensez à de bonnes chaussures, une gourde bien remplie et un sac prêt pour la randonnée. Avec des parois atteignant 700 mètres d’altitude, les gorges du Verdon sont aussi un terrain de jeu immense pour les passionnés d’escalade. Les falaises calcaires attirent chaque année des grimpeurs du monde entier.
Perched villages and Provencal treasures: a beautiful escape in the Verdon
Camping near the gorges of the Verdon is also going to meet villages where time seems to have stopped. These Provencal pearls, nestled between cliffs and lavender, add a touch of sweetness and history to your stay. After a hike or swim in the lake of Sainte-Croix, take time to stroll and discover this unique heritage.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
It is impossible to talk about the gorges of the Verdon without mentioning the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Nestled against the rock, this village is a true local icon. Its reputation for earthenware extends beyond the borders of Provence, as does its famous star suspended between two cliffs, visible from the chapel on the heights. The murmur of the small stream that crosses the heart of the village makes every walk even more pleasant.
Aiguines
Further south, Aiguines is a village that has a breathtaking view of the lake of Sainte-Croix. Its Renaissance castle, proudly perched at the top of the village, seems to watch over the turquoise waters below. Climb up to the top to enjoy a breathtaking scenery, a real privilege for lovers of photography or absolute calm.
Castellane, Rougon or La Palud-sur-Verdon: corners of France to discover
Further north, Castellane, dominated by its rock and chapel, immerses you in the history of the Verdon, between Provencal markets and lively alleys. For those who love large-scale landscapes, head to the village of Rougon or La Palud-sur-Verdon. From these sites, spectacular viewpoints — including the must-see Point Sublime — offer a sweeping view of the Verdon canyon. The kind of moment when you stop, gaping, facing the immensity of nature.
Quinson and the home of the Verdon regional natural park
Fancy a fun family visit near the gorges du Verdon? Head to the village of Quinson, to visit its museum of prehistory. Between reconstituted scenes of life and old objects, the youngest (and the big ones too) love this leap into the past. Also make a detour to the Domaine de Valx, home of the regional natural park of Verdon, to discover the environmental richness of the site and the actions taken to preserve it. Children love the educational exhibits that are available throughout the year.
Gréoux-les-Bains
And for relaxation lovers, why not take a wellness break in Gréoux-les-Bains? This renowned spa is ideal after a few days of hiking. The perfect opportunity to relax your muscles in a naturally warm water, while continuing to enjoy the Provencal way of life.
Dive in the Verdon: the most beautiful spots for an unforgettable swim
In the gorges of the Verdon, the water takes on a turquoise hue so clear that one would almost think it was an illusion. It attracts irresistibly, especially in summer, when the heat is felt and the desire to bite a head becomes irresistible. But beware: if the gorges of the Verdon promise a grandiose spectacle, their current can be powerful, especially in the canyon. For a safe swim, it is better to turn to the many lakes in the region, true havens of freshness.
These bodies of water are perfect to cool off, play or try out various nautical activities, from paddle to pedal boat. The atmosphere is friendly, the scenery spectacular, and everyone will find their own, small as well as large. Here are some of the most beautiful places to put your towel… and dive without hesitation.
- Lake Castillon: a haven of unspoilt nature stretching over 8 kilometres, this lake is distinguished by its wild and authentic character. Along its banks, small coves intimistes invite moments of peaceful bathing, away from the crowd. Thrill-seekers will find their happiness thanks to a complete nautical base offering canoeing, kayaking, paddle and pedal boats.
- The Lac de Sainte-Croix, the largest and probably the most emblematic lake, is a must see. This lake is located less than half an hour by car from our 3-star campsite Aigle and our 4-star campsite International d’Aups. All around the lake, peaceful beaches reach out to you.
- The lake of Esparron: less known but equally charming, seduced by its peaceful atmosphere and its coves accessible by boat or paddle. A dream place to relax in peace, in the middle of nature. This lake is accessible in 10 minutes by car from our campsite Le Soleil 4 stars.
- Lake Quinson completes this idyllic picture. It is a quiet little gem, perfect for a picnic by the water and a few lengths under the blue sky of the Verdon gorges.
In this unique setting, bathed in sun and turquoise water, each lake in the Gorges du Verdon is a promise of freshness, freedom and shared memories.
Whether it is an active weekend or a more quiet stay, the Verdon gorges have this little something unforgettable. Our campsites in the South of France offer you a strategic starting point to visit this region with its thousand faces. So, ready to pack your bags? The Gorges du Verdon, lakes and emblematic villages are waiting for you. Book your accommodation, and come live the adventure!
