The Verdon Gorges

A unique environment

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one of the gateways to the Gorges du Verdon. Located between the Alpes de Haute-Provence and Var departments, the “Grand Canyon of Europe” stretches for about 25 km. The cliffs can reach 700 meters in height.

The Gorges du Verdon are the result of a slow and powerful work of erosion. Over the millennia, the Verdon river has carved its bed into the limestone massif, from its source near the Col d’Allos, in the Massif des Trois-Evêchés. Although the geological formation of the canyon dates back to the secondary era, its tourist discovery is relatively recent. It was not until the beginning of the twentieth century that explorers and hikers began to reveal its wonders.

In terms of fauna, the site is known for its colony of griffon vultures, successfully reintroduced in the 1990s. It is not uncommon to see them flying majestically above the canyon. The Verdon is also home to chamois, golden eagles, bats, not to mention a multitude of fish, insects and amphibians that inhabit the river and its banks. The flora, on the other hand, mixes Mediterranean and mountain species. The unique colour of the Verdon water comes from micro-algae and fluoride that line the course of the river. It is probably the origin of its name, from the Latin viridum, which means “green place”.

Drive around the Gorges

The complete tour of the Gorges du Verdon by car is an essential route to discover one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe. This loop of about 130 km connects the villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, La Palud-sur-Verdon, Aiguines, Trigance and Castellane, alternating panoramic roads, cornice passages and breathtaking viewpoints. Belvederes on the Route des Crêtes or at the Point Sublime offer impressive views of the cliffs and the Verdon below. The circuit crosses grandiose landscapes where each village invites you to a gourmet or cultural stop. The road, sometimes narrow and winding, requires vigilance, but every turn holds a surprise. It is a magical day between sky, rock and river, ideal for taking the measure of the grandeur of the Verdon.

A sports canyon

The Gorges du Verdon are a real playground for sports enthusiasts. From Castellane, rafting allows descents in white water for thrills in a spectacular setting. At Lake Sainte-Croix, the calmer waters are ideal for family activities such as pedal boating. This boat is very popular for gently engaging in the beginning of the canyon. Finally, for the more sporty, guides will supervise you for canyoning or aqua-hiking in the narrow gorges, between waterfalls, natural basins and rocky slides.

In addition to water sports, the Gorges du Verdon also offer many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking is arguably one of the best ways to explore the gorge in depth. The Blanc-Martel trail, 15 km long, is the most emblematic. It follows the river between Point Sublime and Chalet de la Maline, offering spectacular panoramas, tunnels carved into the rock and vertiginous secure passages. With more than 900 equipped routes, the Gorges du Verdon is considered a real “cathedral” of climbing in Europe. The limestone walls offer a variety of routes, from beginners to experienced climbers, in an absolutely grandiose setting.

Protected fauna and flora

Between vertiginous cliffs, wild plateaus and celadon waters, the Verdon and the Alpes de Haute-Provence are home to an exceptionally rich fauna and flora. This protected territory, classified within the Verdon Regional Natural Park, is a real sanctuary for biodiversity.

At the crossroads of Mediterranean and mountain influences, the vegetation of the Verdon and the Alpes de Haute-Provence is of great diversity: Lavender and aromatic plants (thyme, rosemary, savory) perfume the hills and plateaus. Oak and pine forests dominate the landscapes, providing habitat for many species. The high cliffs and alpine meadows reveal rare plants, such as the Verdon saxifrage or the Venus’ slipper. The territory is a refuge for many animal species, some of which are
Emblematic: The griffon and monk vultures, majestic gliders, have been successfully reintroduced in the Verdon gorges. Chamois and marmots inhabit the areas
more mountainous. The ocellated lizard, the largest lizard in Europe, likes rocky terrain. In the waters of the Verdon, brown trout and other fish enjoy pure and preserved water.