Verdon Gorges and Provence

Swap the coast for the mountains of High Provence. This private day takes you to turquoise water, huge limestone cliffs and air that smells of wild thyme and lavender.

Morning: Castellane

A premium, air-conditioned vehicle takes you along winding mountain roads to the village of Castellane, the gateway to the gorges.

• The village: medieval streets, or an espresso by the river.
• The market: on Wednesdays and Sundays, the local market is full of Provençal honey, cheeses and crafts.

The Verdon Gorges

Often called the « Grand Canyon of Europe », the gorges are up to 700 meters deep.

• Viewpoints: we stop at the most dramatic cliffs for postcard photos.
• The lake: down at the edge of the canyon, the Verdon River flows into the emerald-blue water of Sainte-Croix Lake.

Afternoon: your choice

The afternoon depends on the season and what you prefer:

• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: one of the « Most Beautiful Villages in France », tucked below a tall cliff. It is known for the 15th-century star hanging above the valley and for its faience pottery. A good place for lunch on a shady terrace.
• The lavender fields of Valensole (June and July only): the plateau turns into a sea of purple as far as you can see. Perfect for photos.
• Time by the lake: spend the afternoon at Sainte-Croix Lake. We can arrange a boat ride into the mouth of the canyon, or you can swim in the clear water.

Why this private tour

• The landscapes: the gorges and the lake, without the crowds.
• Real Provence: Moustiers and Castellane, away from the tourist path.
• Your pace: unlike a bus tour, we stay longer wherever you are enjoying yourself.
• The best of each season: lavender in bloom or a swim in the lake, we plan the day accordingly.

What to bring

• Layers: the mountains and gorges can be 5 to 8°C cooler than Nice. A light jacket or scarf is useful in the morning.
• Comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestones of Moustiers and the rocky viewpoints.
• Swimwear and a towel if you choose the lake option.
• Sun protection: the mountain sun is strong. Bring a hat, high-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses.
• A charged camera or phone: these are some of the most photographed landscapes in France.
• Motion sickness remedy if winding mountain roads bother you.

Ready to see the turquoise heart of Provence? Contact us to book your private vehicle and guide for a day in the Verdon Gorges.

Guy Alfonsi. Born in Nice, 20+ years of guiding. TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence since 2014.