It is often said that it is the largest canyon in Europe…But what we really experience in the Verdon Gorges goes beyond the numbers. This exceptional site reveals a spectacular landscape on its emerald green ribbon. Beyond this grandiose setting, it guarantees a sensory journey between hanging villages, forgotten trails and water sources. Experience an unforgettable foray into the heart of exceptional nature thanks to the many activities offered by the Verdon.

Verdon Gorges: birth of a legendary canyon

It's hard to imagine that this picture-postcard setting took millions of years to form. And yet, the Verdon Gorges are the result of nature's long work. canyon formation dates back more than 250 million years, when the sea still covered this part of Provence. Over time, the movements of tectonic plates and erosion caused by the river have sculpted these impressive cliffs that we know today.

The exploration of the Verdon as we know it today only really began at the beginning of the 20th century under the impetus of Édouard-Alfred Martel, legendary French speleologist, who led the first expedition to descend the gorge from end to end. A 15 km trail that runs along the river on the right bank from the start of the canyon towards the Chalet de la Maline was renamed in his honor.

Le Verdon Canyon owes its international fame to its narrowness and depth. In the riverbed, it is 6 to 100 meters wide and 250 to 700 meters deep. From one slope to the other at the top of the gorge, the width is 200 to 1500 meters.

The Verdon Gorges in hiking mode

La hiking in the Verdon Gorges is certainly one of the most unmissable activities. The Martel trail is the most famous. Developed in 1928, it extends over 15 km along the right bank from its entrance into the canyon to the Chalet de la Maline. It is possible to hike in both directions, but it is recommended to start from the Chalet de la Maline to take advantage of the best photos, among other things, due to the sunshine. To transport and then pick up hikers, vehicles ofEDEN CAB At their disposal are limousines Mercedes E-Class, S-Class and Maybach S-Class, Mercedes V-Class vans or luxury 30-seater minibuses.

Another well-known hiking trail is the Imbut trailTo get there, head to Aiguines via the D19, then take the D71 until you reach the Logis Hôtel du Grand Canyon. After 100 meters towards Aiguines, signs are available. The hike is 11 km long and takes 5 hours. Allow a maximum elevation gain of 930 meters and a minimum elevation gain of 500 meters.

If you are looking for a more tranquil, more wild Verdon experience, there are other equally impressive, but much less well-known, routes. Bastidon trail, for example, offers total immersion in nature, with plunging views of the gorges and an almost unreal silence. As for the Lizard trail, it offers a more accessible walk, perfect for families.

For a stress-free hike, it's best to set off early in the morning, wear good shoes, bring plenty of water, and check the weather forecast. The ideal time? May to June or September to October, when temperatures are mild and trails are less crowded.

Water side: kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming in a postcard setting

Verdon activities are countless, especially for water sports enthusiasts thanks to the lacs surrounding areas. Whether it's rafting, canoeing or kayaking, in Verdon, there is something for all tastes and desires. Lake Saint-Croix is the perfect place for windsurfing, especially when the mistral blows through the region. The less adventurous can simply indulge in the pleasures of lazing around. The villages of Salles-sur-Verdon, Sainte-Croix, and Bauden have developed beaches to allow visitors to dive into the clear waters. Pedal boat and electric boat rentals are also available on site.

Located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, Esparron-de-verdon also has a magnificent artificial lake that is perfect for cooling off in summer when the Provençal sun is at its zenith. Lifeguards provide supervision during the arrival of fine weather to ensure the safety of children. It is also possible to rent an electric boat to explore the lower Verdon Gorges and enjoy their magical spectacle.

Neighboring villages and Provençal atmosphere

In villages of Verdon, we find this typical charm that we often come looking for in Provence: narrow streets, colorful shutters, old fountains and the smell of warm bread in the morning. Clinging to the side of a cliff, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie offers a unique atmosphere. The sound of the water coming down from the mountain, the shops of artisan earthenware makers, the terraces in the shade of the plane trees: here, every detail breathes theVerdon art of living.

A little further, the Valensole plateau its lavender fields stretch as far as the eye can see (especially in June-July) for a breathtaking spectacle and local products to discover from the producers: essential oils, honey, soaps, small markets at the end of the day... Don't miss the Valensole lavender festival to discover blue gold in all its facets.

The spectacular views of the Gorges du Verdon

While the canyon is known for its breathtaking panoramas, it is entirely possible to enjoy the view without the crowd. Following the Crest road, between La Palud-sur-Verdon and the suspended belvederes, be amazed by a succession of breathtaking viewpoints of the Verdon Gorges. Among the most famous: the Balconies of the Mescla, Couloir Samson or Styx, a sort of hidden mini-canyon, dug into the limestone rock. These places offer impressive panoramas of the Verdon Gorges, but certain times allow you to enjoy them more peacefully.

For a magical experience, nothing beats a sunrise over the Trescaire belvedere or a blazing sunset from the Sublime pointA word of advice: leave early, during the week, and let yourself be guided by the secondary trails. This is where the most beautiful surprises are hidden, those that you don't necessarily find on postcards.

The teamEDEN CAB can take you to the most beautiful spots in the Verdon Gorge in complete comfort and tranquility. To book a limousine or a Mercedes van for your adventure, book here ou Contact us for more questions.