Why Visit the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte Croix

The Grand Canyon of France! A very beautiful place! Turquoise waters, impressive cliffs, and a beautiful lake for all kinds of water activities. If you are in the South of France, you should visit the Gorges du Verdon!

The most accessible part of the gorges on the water can be found at the Pont du Galetas near Salles-sur-Verdon, on the road leading to Moustiers Sainte-Marie. You will find rental spots for pedal boats, electric boats and kayaks on both sides of the river near the bridge.

Continue reading here to see Laura’s photos of the Lac de Sainte Croix and stunning Gorges de Verdon. In size, this gorge does not compare to the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. But then size isn’t everything! For beauty, the Gorges du Verdon is considered one of France’s most beautiful natural settings. The Verdon River carved a 25-kilometre track through sheer limestone cliffs that in some places reach 700m in height.

Lac de Sainte Croix is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground in this part of the Alpes de Haute Provence. Laura describes in her post that the water sports options include pedal boats, stand-up paddle boarding, and lake surfing. There are many hiking options, although many of the trails are for experienced hikers. For the risk takers, rock climbing is an option.

Or, if you prefer a simply tamer activity, stroll the streets of prefer Moustiers Saint-Marie. It’s a charming and popular village with a church high on a hill. A walk up to the chapel is an excellent way to work up an appetite. Discover the legend of the star that is suspended between two mountain peaks. The town is known for its pottery workshops and galleries where local artisans produce faïence ceramics.

The tourism website for the Gorges du Verdon includes information on places to stay, eat, activities and much more.