Gorges du Verdon Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Gorges du Verdon. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Gorges du Verdon
Gorges du Verdon photo 2
Gorges du Verdon photo 3
All photos

Discover the awe-inspiring Gorges du Verdon, Europe's most beautiful river canyon, with its turquoise waters, towering cliffs, and endless outdoor adventures.

The Gorges du Verdon, often hailed as Europe's most stunning river canyon, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France, this breathtaking gorge stretches over 25 kilometers and plunges to depths of 700 meters. With its turquoise-blue waters and towering limestone cliffs, it offers a scenic escape that feels like another world.
Read more about Gorges du Verdon
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities here. From kayaking and canoeing in the clear waters of the Verdon River to hiking along the numerous trails that offer panoramic views of the canyon, there is something for everyone. The Sentier Blanc-Martel trail is particularly popular, providing a challenging yet rewarding journey through some of the most beautiful parts of the gorge.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, scenic drives along the rim of the gorge offer stunning viewpoints such as the Balcons de la Mescla and the Point Sublime. These vantage points provide unparalleled photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at the natural beauty without breaking a sweat. Additionally, charming villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane are nearby, offering quaint streets, local cuisine, and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

When is the best time to visit Gorges du Verdon?

Best: May, September–October · 23–28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1255
February1349
March1750
April2159
May (best)2666
June3060
July3340
August3343
September (best)2853
October (best)2369
November1675
December1363

Getting to and around Gorges du Verdon

How to get there

Gorges du Verdon is located in the southeastern part of France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The nearest major airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), which is around 120 kilometers away. From Nice, you can rent a car or take a train to reach the town of Castellane or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, both of which are popular starting points for exploring the Gorges. Alternatively, you can fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is about 150 kilometers away, and follow a similar route.

Transportation

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Gorges du Verdon, as it gives you the flexibility to visit various viewpoints and embark on hiking trails at your own pace. Public transportation options are limited but include regional buses that connect nearby towns. Cycling is also a popular option for those who enjoy outdoor activities. For water activities, you can rent kayaks, canoes, or pedal boats at the various points along the Verdon River.

Best attractions in Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Europe,' offers visitors a stunning natural wonder with its deep turquoise river, towering limestone cliffs, and picturesque villages perched on the edge of the gorge. Adventurous travelers can explore the area by hiking, rock climbing, or kayaking, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy panoramic views from scenic overlooks or take a leisurely boat ride on the emerald waters below. With its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for outdoor activities, Gorges du Verdon is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon offers visitors a breathtaking experience with its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and picturesque villages. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking along the rugged trails, kayaking or paddleboarding on the crystal-clear waters of the Verdon River, or simply relaxing and taking in the panoramic views from various viewpoints like Point Sublime and Balcons de la Mescla. The area is also rich in history, with ancient chapels, castles, and ruins scattered throughout the region, providing a glimpse into the past of this enchanting destination.

Show more landmarks

Explore Gorges du Verdon on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Gorges du Verdon

The dining scene of Gorges du Verdon offers a delightful mix of traditional Provençal cuisine and modern gastronomic experiences, set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. From charming local bistros serving up hearty dishes made with fresh, local ingredients to upscale restaurants offering innovative takes on classic French fare, visitors can expect a culinary journey that perfectly complements their exploration of the picturesque surroundings. Whether savoring a leisurely meal overlooking the turquoise waters of the Verdon River or indulging in a gourmet picnic amidst the breathtaking cliffs, the dining options in Gorges du Verdon are sure to tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Gorges du Verdon

While Gorges du Verdon may be known for its stunning natural beauty, the nightlife scene offers a pleasant surprise for visitors. From cozy wine bars tucked away in charming villages to lively nightclubs with DJ sets and live music, there is something for every taste. Enjoy sipping local wines on a terrace overlooking the cliffs, or dance the night away under the stars. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Verdon Gorge.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Gorges du Verdon

While Gorges du Verdon may be known for its stunning natural beauty, the nightlife scene offers a pleasant surprise for visitors. From cozy wine bars tucked away in charming villages to lively nightclubs with DJ sets and live music, there is something for every taste. Enjoy sipping local wines on a terrace overlooking the cliffs, or dance the night away under the stars. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Verdon Gorge.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Gorges du Verdon

Immerse yourself in the charming shopping scene of Gorges du Verdon, where local artisans showcase their craftsmanship through unique souvenirs and handcrafted items. From intricate pottery to traditional Provencal fabrics, visitors can browse through a variety of shops offering authentic products that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don't miss the bustling markets filled with fresh produce, aromatic herbs, and local delicacies, providing a true taste of Provence. Whether you're looking for a special memento or simply want to experience the vibrant local culture, the shopping scene of Gorges du Verdon is sure to enchant and delight.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Gorges du Verdon, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Gorges du Verdon essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops around Gorges du Verdon. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Safety
Gorges du Verdon is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables in your car and being cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant, especially when hiking or engaging in water activities. Ensure that you have a charged mobile phone and let someone know your plans if you're going on a long hike.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Local police stations and medical facilities are available in the nearby towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to hike. Don't wear flip-flops or open-toed shoes when hiking. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, though the area is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do be respectful to other passengers. Don't expect extensive public transportation options; renting a car is more practical. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour'. A handshake is common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Provençal cuisine and wines. Don't rush through your meals; dining is a leisurely activity in France.
Local Tips
To experience Gorges du Verdon like a local, visit the weekly markets in Castellane or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Sentier Blanc-Martel trail, which offers stunning views of the gorge. For a unique experience, try visiting during the off-peak seasons (spring or fall) to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more serene environment.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloBonjour[bohn-zhoor]
GoodbyeAu revoir[oh ruh-vwahr]
YesOui[wee]
NoNon[nohn]
Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien[seel voo pleh/dee ryen]
Thank youMerci[mehr-see]
Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé[ehk-skew-zay mwah/deh-zoh-lay]
How are you?Comment ça va?[koh-mohn sah vah]
Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?[byen. ay voo]
Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?[par-lay voo ahn-glay]
I don't understandJe ne comprends pas[zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît[zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande[zhuh nuh mahnzh pah duh vyand]
Cheers!Santé![sahn-tay]
I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît[zhuh voo-dray peh-yay, seel voo pleh]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Au secours![oh suh-koor]
Go away!Allez-vous en![ah-lay vooz ahn]
Call the Police!Appelez la police![ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin![ah-peh-lay uh meh-deh-sahn]
I'm lostJe suis perdu[zhuh swee pair-doo]
I'm illJe suis malade[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...[zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay]
I'm just lookingJe regarde juste[zhuh ruh-gahrd zhewst]
How much is it?Combien ça coûte?[kohm-byen sah koot]
That's too expensiveC'est trop cher[say troh shair]
Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?[poo-veh voo bess-ay luh pree]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?[kell ur ay eel]
It's one o'clockIl est une heure[eel ayz oon ur]
Half past (10)Dix et demi[dees ay dem-ee]
MorningMatin[mah-tahn]
AfternoonAprès-midi[ah-pray mee-dee]
EveningSoir[swahr]
YesterdayHier[yehr]
TodayAujourd'hui[oh-zhoor dewee]
TomorrowDemain[duh-mahn]
1Un[uhn]
2Deux[duh]
3Trois[trwah]
4Quatre[kah-truh]
5Cinq[sank]
6Six[sees]
7Sept[sept]
8Huit[weet]
9Neuf[nurf]
10Dix[dees]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Où est...[oo eh]
What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?[kell ay la-dress]
Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?[poo-veh voo muh mon-tray (soor lah kart)]
When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?[kahnd ay luh proh-shan (bus)]
A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)[uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Gorges du Verdon

Prehistoric Inhabitants

The Gorges du Verdon area has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Evidence of human presence dates back to the Paleolithic era, with numerous artifacts such as flint tools and cave paintings discovered in the region. These early inhabitants were hunter-gatherers who utilized the rich natural resources of the area.

Roman Influence

During the Roman era, the region around Gorges du Verdon was part of the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis. The Romans built roads and infrastructure, facilitating trade and movement. Remnants of Roman architecture, including bridges and roads, can still be found in the area, indicating the strategic importance of this region in ancient times.

Medieval Fortresses

In the Middle Ages, the Gorges du Verdon area was dotted with fortresses and castles. These structures served as defensive strongholds against invaders and as residences for local nobility. The Château d'Aiguines, perched above the gorge, is a prime example of medieval fortification that has withstood the test of time.

Provençal Culture

The culture of the Gorges du Verdon area is deeply rooted in Provençal traditions. This region is known for its unique language, cuisine, and festivals. Provençal, a Romance language, is still spoken by some locals. Traditional Provençal cuisine includes dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade, all of which reflect the Mediterranean influences.

Hydroelectric Development

In the 20th century, the Gorges du Verdon became a focal point for hydroelectric development. The construction of the Sainte-Croix Dam in the 1970s created the Lac de Sainte-Croix, a large reservoir that provides hydroelectric power and serves as a popular recreational area. This development marked a significant transformation of the natural landscape and contributed to the region's economic growth.

Tourism Emergence

The Gorges du Verdon began to attract tourists in the mid-20th century, drawn by its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and kayaking. The establishment of the Verdon Regional Natural Park in 1997 further boosted tourism by preserving the area's natural and cultural heritage. Today, the Gorges du Verdon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.

Gorges du Verdon in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Cities in Gorges du Verdon

The towns and cities of Gorges du Verdon, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Neighbouring destination travel guides

The closest destinations to Gorges du Verdon, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Provence
More of the region

Explore more of Provence

Discover the enchanting allure of Provence, France, where rolling lavender fields, historic towns, and Mediterranean coastline offer a perfect escape.

Explore Provence
France
More of the country

Explore more of France

Explore France: A land of romance, history, and unparalleled beauty, from the iconic streets of Paris to the serene landscapes of Provence and the luxury of the French Riviera.

Explore France
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Gorges du Verdon

Discover Gorges du Verdon with Evendo, the 100% free app-based travel guide covering all attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, and more.

  • Comprehensive information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Detailed maps, images, descriptions, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Planning a trip to Gorges du Verdon? Evendo is your free, all-in-one travel guide app. Get detailed info on attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more!

  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • Easy navigation and 'Near Me' feature
  • Travel essentials and history of Gorges du Verdon
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Imagine standing on the edge of the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, the 'Grand Canyon of Europe', and having all the essential information right at your fingertips. That's what Evendo offers. This 100% free app-based travel guide provides comprehensive details on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Gorges du Verdon.

With Evendo, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Pont du Galetas and the stunning Lac de Sainte-Croix, or enjoy thrilling activities such as kayaking and hiking in the Verdon Gorge. Discover hidden gems and local favorites with curated local tips that let you experience Gorges du Verdon like a true local.

Indulge in delectable Provençal cuisine at renowned restaurants like La Table de Paul and Le Mur d'Abeilles, or unwind at charming cafes and bars. Evendo also makes it easy to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, eliminating the hassle of planning and organizing.

The app's easy navigation and 'Near Me' feature ensure that you always know what's around you, no matter where you are. Plus, with detailed maps, images, descriptions, and contact details, Evendo is your ultimate companion for an unforgettable trip to Gorges du Verdon.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.