Gorges Du Verdon

Gorges Du Verdon Essential Questions

Visit Gorges du Verdon, the epitome of natural wonder. Picture this: colossal limestone walls reaching up to 2300 feet (700 meters), carving a 15-mile (25-kilometre) masterpiece along the meandering Verdon River. This geological marvel, often hailed as the European Grand Canyon, stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the raw beauty of Mother Nature.

Did you know that Gorges du Verdon is just under two hours away from the vibrant city of Nice on the French Riviera? It’s a fantastic day trip by car from Nice or Marseille. Ideally, it can be done in two days, especially if you want to take a car tour.

Furthermore, Marseille is not too far. This bustling city with a rich maritime history, is within a manageable distance. The proximity to these renowned tourist cities makes Gorges du Verdon an accessible and must-visit destination. Especially a splendid location for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Verdon River With Vacationers

Through my travels, I have become captivated by uncovering the undiscovered treasures of the world for my readers. While many incredible travel destinations are well-known and visited by everyone, there exist these hidden and rare gems that I have had the pleasure of discovering. These are places of exceptional natural beauty and cultural significance that often go unnoticed by most travellers. My passion for exploration has led me to witness some truly amazing sights, and I am constantly driven to seek out new and lesser-known destinations. I am thrilled to share my carefully curated content with you, in the hopes of igniting your sense of wanderlust and inspiring you to embark on your own extraordinary adventures.

Through my travels, I have become captivated by uncovering the undiscovered treasures of the world for my readers. While many incredible travel destinations are well-known and visited by everyone, there exist these hidden and rare gems that I have had the pleasure of discovering. These are places of exceptional natural beauty and cultural significance that often go unnoticed by most travellers. My passion for exploration has led me to witness some truly amazing sights, and I am constantly driven to seek out new and lesser-known destinations. I am thrilled to share my carefully curated content with you, in the hopes of igniting your sense of wanderlust and inspiring you to embark on your own extraordinary adventures.

How To Get To Gorges Du Verdon?

Have you decided to plan your journey to the awe-inspiring Gorges du Verdon? Let’s navigate the options together for a seamless adventure. If you travel by plane, two cities are the most practical destinations.  

Nice by plane

The first is Nice. This city has an airport and is the ideal starting location. Easy to reach from most major cities. Are you staying in Nice? A trip to Gorges Du Verdon is a fun day trip with a (rental) car. The distance is only 46 miles. 

Marseille by plane

The second city is Marseille. This large town is quite a bit further away. But you can also stay in the region to the east or north. It is approximately 96 miles from Marseille to Nice. If you rent a car, Castellane is your first destination to see the gorge.

Read here which car route through the gorge you can follow. 

Nice: Your Best Option By Train

Are you travelling by train? Then the recommendation is to travel to Nice. The InOui TGV has a good connection with this city. When in Nice you have three options to go to Castellane. The easiest is by bus, a drive from 3h brings travellers exactly to the village. The second option is the train & bus. This takes around 4 hours. From Nice you have to take the intercity or local train to Cagnes-sur-Mer. The name says it all. This is located by the sea. However, from Cagnes it is still more than two hours by bus before you get there. Another way is taking a slow but scenic stream train from Nice to Dignes-les-Bains. This quaint train ride stops in Saint André-les-Alps. From here it is a mere 4 h walk. Fortunately there is also a bus. It brings you in 20 minutes to your destination.

What Activities To Do In Gorges Du Verdon?

Explore the wonders of Gorges Du Verdon, where adventure awaits you. Below you will find three of the most popular activities to do here. 

Hiking Blanc-Martel Trail

Challenge yourself on the Blanc-Martel Trail, a 10-mile journey of breathtaking beauty. If you like you can start at the village of Point Sublime and finish at Chalet de la Maline. This ensures a varied and rewarding experience. It covers the entire trail. Plan for this for 5-7 hours. However your physical condition may influence the duration. A shuttle bus back is strongly recommended for convenience. The hike is indeed challenging. Fortunately there are alternative end-points available based on your stamina. Prepare to navigate through tunnels. Therefore, bring a torch for the dark passages. Keep in mind there are a few long stairs and steep narrow precipices. These precipices do not always have a fence along them. Sturdy shoes, a day’s worth of food, and ample water are essential. Along the way, relish the spectacular viewpoint at Point Sublime. 

Water Sports And Other Activities

Indulge in various water sports or other sports activities near Gorges du Verdon. Whether it’s swimming, kayaking, aqua trekking, rock climbing, mountain biking, or cycling. This is an excellent location for challenging sports. Keep in mind that the canyon does not everywhere allow for swimming due to the flow force of the river. Though, kayaks are possible to rent if you don’t have one yourself. It is also possible to go aqua trekking with a guide in a group. This is an activity where you partially swim, float, climb and walk through the white water of the river. There are also several mountain bike routes, though most are for experienced mountain bikers. If you prefer less risky cycling, there are wonderful roads for cycling enthusiasts.

kayaks in the verdon river

See Vultures in The Wild

Binoculars in hand, head to prime vulture-watching locations near Rougon. Luckily, Point Sublime, Belvedere de l’Escales, Belvedere de Mayreste, and other vantage points offer excellent opportunities. Especially with clear skies, your chances of spotting these majestic birds increase. Marvel at not only vultures but also ravens, golden eagles, and other unique bird species inhabiting the Gorges Du Verdon. Additionally there are deers, foxes and butterflies in this nature. Therefore, the area’s wildlife adds a touch of natural charm to your exploration.

As you immerse yourself in this breathtaking landscape, the Gorges Du Verdon becomes a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, promising a memorable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights and thrilling activities.

Griffon Vulture

Best Time to Visit Gorges du Verdon?

Discover the ideal time for your Gorges du Verdon adventure! July and August also offer vibrant landscapes. But these months are bustling and hot. If you like a more serene experience, consider going in spring or autumn. From April to June it is pleasant weather and nature already awakens. Enjoy the flowers and the sprouting twigs. In September and October the weather remains pleasant. During these months, you’ll relish the stunning landscape without the peak-season crowds. So, the mild temperatures and the tranquillity of the canyon provide an optimal backdrop for your journey. Plan your visit strategically to make the most of the bewildering Gorges du Verdon at its serene best.

Swimming in Verdon River?

Be aware when you dive into the Verdon River during spring and early summer. Of course, due to snow meltwater, you experience refreshing swims. However, be cautious— because the current can be surprisingly strong. For untrained swimmers, wearing life jackets is indeed recommended. Additionally, note the presence of hidden rocks underwater. Next to that, the weather plays a role too. Avoid swimming during thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. On the whole, despite the inviting waters, awareness of seasonal differences and local conditions is crucial. Enjoy your swim with these tips in mind!