Located in Provence, throughout 30 kilometres between the Alpes de Haute-Provence and the Var, the Verdon Gorges are undoubtedly the most beautiful canyon in Europe.
To enjoy the most picturesque views from above the Sainte-Croix lake and biggest canyon in Europe, the best way is to drive through the sinuous Route des Crêtes all the way up until la Palud sur Verdon. Once you will arrive up there, you can watch the vautours flying over the canyon, while tasting a crêpe at the crêperie buvette des Abeilles.
Another highlight of the place : the lake’s turquoise water in which you can swim or where you can rent a kayak, boat or canoe.
My summer tip : head to the Gorges as early as you can, ideally around 9:30-10am to avoid the large crowds inside the canyon. You can then head back later towards the lake itself.
Charming villages of Provence
Moustiers-sainte-Marie is a charming village, sitting at the base of rocky cliffs. It is famous for its ceramics and worth a visit.
Some of the events you don’t want to miss in the area : the “floating” festival called “Un piano sur le lac”, which takes place every summer, and the jazz festival called Jazz en Verdon.
A few kilometres away, you can explore the fascinating provencal Colorado with its mesmerizing ochre colours, as well as the most picturesque villages of Luberon, such as Gordes, Bonnieux and Lourmarin.
In Lourmarin, don’t forget to try a calisson ice cream and a gibassier, a savoury galette made with anise and olive oil. Calisson is a traditional French candy made with candied fruit and ground almonds.
My addresses for a tasty meal – I highly recommend to book your table several days in advance during summertime :
Ferme Sainte-Cécile, route des Gorges du Verdon, 04360 Moustiers-sainte-Marie – Gastronomic restaurant
L’Escapade, 2 rue Pierre Blanche, 83630 Les Salles-sur-Verdon