Gorges du Verdon: a day trip from Lorgues

The route from Lorgues

Drive via Salernes or Villecroze to Aups and on to Aiguines or Les Salles-sur-Verdon on Lac de Sainte-Croix. Allow about an hour. On the way you pass oak forests, vineyards and olive groves.

From Aiguines, follow the Corniche Sublime along the southern rim of the gorge, with one viewpoint after another. The Route des Crêtes on the north side, from La Palud-sur-Verdon, is just as beautiful; combine both only if you want a long day.

Pedal boats and kayaks on the lake

Where the gorge meets Lac de Sainte-Croix, at the Pont du Galetas bridge, you can rent pedal boats, canoes and electric boats and paddle straight into the gorge between the cliffs. In July and August it is busy; go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

The lake itself has small beaches and quiet coves for swimming. Bring water shoes: the bottom is often stony.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

On the northwest side of the lake lies Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the officially most beautiful villages of France. It is famous for its faience pottery and for the golden star that hangs on a chain between two cliffs above the village. Climb to the chapel above the village for the view.

• Verdon Tourisme
• Verdon Regional Nature Park
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Hiking in the gorge

For experienced walkers the Sentier Blanc-Martel is a classic: a long trail along the bottom of the gorge, with tunnels for which you need a torch. Shorter walks start from the viewpoints along the Route des Crêtes.

Our tips

• Leave early: car parks at the lake and in Moustiers fill up in summer.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen and a picnic; there are few places to eat along the gorge.
• The river level can rise quickly due to water releases from the dams. Always follow the signs and do not swim in the riverbed itself.
• Want to see the lavender? Combine the trip with the Valensole plateau in late June or early July.