The Gorge Du Verdon is a spectacular canyon in France. When we visited, we had the whole place to ourselves and it was a peaceful paradise. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this must-visit spot in France.
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What Is Gorge Du Verdon?
The Gorge du Verdon is a canyon located in the south of France. The gorge is about 25 kilometers long and is up to 700 meters deep. It is considered one of the most beautiful canyons in Europe.
The canyon was created by the Verdon River, which flows through it. The river has carved out a deep and winding path through the limestone rock over the course of millions of years.
The gorge is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. There are several hiking trails that wind their way through the canyon, and there are also a few camping sites located along the river.
If you’re looking for an adventure in one of the most beautiful places in France, then the gorge du verdon is definitely worth a visit!
Where Is Gorge Du Verdon Located?
The Gorge Du Verdon is located in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region of south-eastern France. It is about a two-hour drive from Nice, and about a three-hour drive from Marseille.
What to See and Do at Gorge Du Verdon
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in the Gorge Du Verdon. Here are a few of the highlights:
– Hiking: There are several hiking trails that wind their way through the gorge. Whether you want a short hike or a multi-day trek, there is a trail for you.
– Rock climbing: The cliffs of the gorge du verdon are a mecca for rock climbers. There are routes for climbers of all levels of experience.
– Canoeing and kayaking: Paddle your way through the turquoise waters of the gorge. There are several rental companies that can provide you with all the gear you need.
– Canyoning: For a truly adventurous experience, try canyoning. This activity involves rappelling down waterfalls and sliding down natural waterslides.
How To Get to Gorge Du Verdon?
The Gorge Du Verdon is located in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region of France. The best way to get there is by car. If you are coming from Nice, take the A8 motorway east towards Italy. Take exit 40 for route napoleon and follow the signs for the Gorge Du Verdon. The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
If you are coming from other parts of France, the best way to get there is by train. There is a train station in the town of Saint-André-les-Alpes, which is about a 30-minute drive from the gorge. The train journey from Paris takes about 6 hours.
Is There Accessible Parking Available When Visiting Gorge Du Verdon?
There is accessible parking available. There are a few different parking areas near the Gorge Du Verdon, and they are all well-marked. There is also a shuttle bus that runs from the parking areas to the gorge. The shuttle bus is free for those with disabilities.
What Are the Different Trails Available at Gorge Du Verdon?
There are a few different trails available at Gorge Du Verdon. The most popular trail is the Sentier Martel, which is a 4.5 mile (7.2 km) hike that takes you through the gorge. There is also the Chemin des Crêtes, which is a 6.2 mile (10 km) hike that takes you along the rim of the gorge.
Can I Go Swimming in Gorge Du Verdon?
Yes, swimming is allowed. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk. The water is usually quite cold, so it is best to bring a wetsuit or other form of thermal protection.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Gorge Du Verdon?
The best time of year to visit gorge du verdon is from May to October. This is when the weather is warmest and the crowds are thinnest.
If you plan on swimming like we did then the summer is definitely the best time, we visited the gorge in March and while it was warm enough to be in shorts and tee shirts, the water was absolutely freezing!
But the plus side of this is we had the whole place to ourselves, this meant being on the kayak completely alone was amazing!
Is There an Entrance Fee for Gorge Du Verdon?
Yes, there is an entrance fee for gorge du verdon. However, this fee is generally very reasonable, and it covers the costs of maintaining the trails and ensuring the safety of visitors.
What Should I Bring with Me to Gorge Du Verdon?
When visiting gorge du verdon, it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The terrain can be quite rocky, so it is not recommended to wear heels or open-toed shoes. It is also a good idea to bring plenty of water, as there are no sources of potable water within the park. Finally, remember to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be quite intense during the summer months.
Do You Have to Hike to Reach Gorge Du Verdon?
No, you do not have to hike to reach gorge du verdon. There is a road that leads directly to the park, and there are several parking areas where you can leave your car. However, if you want to experience the true beauty of the gorge, it is recommended that you take at least one hike.
There are numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your abilities. In addition, the scenery is simply stunning, and you will get a much better appreciation for it if you are on foot.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a beautiful place to visit, you should definitely consider Gorge Du Verdon. This gorge is one of the most stunning places in all of France, and it is a great place to hike, swim, or just enjoy the scenery. Just be sure to plan your trip carefully so that you can make the most of your time here.
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I have always wanted to travel and luckily I always got to travel to some amazing countries while I was growing up with my family and this really encouraged me to continue this and get out into the world on my own when I was older.
My goal growing up was really to see as much of the world as I could, but then I started going to work and really concentrating on my career and travel took a back seat. I still tried to get away a few times a year but I always knew there was an end goal which was to travel as much as possible.
So I got my head down and worked as hard as I could as an e-commerce manager. I have always been techy, I love computers and websites, so that’s where it gave me the idea to start this blog and also have my own web design agency. If you want to check it out or need any help then please take a look rrwebdesign.co.uk (shameless plug there)
But after covid, we both knew this was now the right time to take the leap and go and see the world after being trapped inside our house and working from home for a couple of years. We realised more than ever that you only get one life and you really need to make the most of it and do what you love!
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