Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GORGES DU VERDON
Nicknamed the 'Grand Canyon of Europe', the plunging Gorges du Verdon slices a 25km
swathe through Haute-Provence's limestone plateau - foothills of the Alps. Under the pro-
tection of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon since 1997, the gorges create habitat for in-
credible birds, including the canyon's very own colony of reintroduced griffon vultures.
The spectacular main gorge begins at Rougon, near the confluence of the Verdon and
Jabron Rivers; the emerald-green waters wind westward toward Lac de Ste-Croix. The nar-
row canyon bottom is just 8m to 90m wide. Its walls rise a dizzying 250m to 700m - at
their highest, over twice the height of the Eiffel Tower (321m). Overhanging rims widen
from 200m to 1500m. See the gorges from above
and
below.
Two jumping-off points are Moustiers Ste-Marie, in the west, and Castellane, in the east.
The canyon floors are only accessible by foot or raft. Motorists, equestrians and cyclists
can take in staggering panoramas from two vertigo-inducing cliffside roads.
COFFEE IN RIEZ
If approaching Gorges du Verdon from the west, you'll pass tiny Riez - a village of red-tile roofs and a good stopover
for baguettes and coffee, especially on market days, Wednesday and Saturday.
Activities
Cycling & Driving
A complete circuit of the Gorges du Verdon from Moustiers Ste-Marie involves 140km of
relentless hairpin turns. Tourist offices provide itineraries. The only village en route is La
Palud-sur-Verdon (930m). Expect slow traffic in summer and icy or snowy roads in winter.
The rte des Crêtes closes 15 November to 15 March. Watch for falling rocks year-round,
and take it easy - opportunities to pass are rare.
