The Gorges du Verdon lie in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, in southeastern France, close to the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The canyon is often called the "Grand Canyon of France" and is described as Europe's largest canyon. Its walls are limestone, and the river that cut them runs through water of a striking emerald green.
What the visit offers
The gorge suits visitors who like to be outdoors and moving. The facts point to several ways of exploring it:
- Hiking along the paths on and around the canyon
- Rock climbing on the limestone cliffs
- Kayaking on the green water
- Scenic drives along the spectacular rim roads, where the views open out over the canyon
Planning your trip
Many people combine the gorge with a stop in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the village nearest to it, and with the wider landscape of Provence around it. Because the activities range from gentle viewpoints to demanding climbs, it is worth choosing what suits your level before you set out. Whether you come for a slow drive with a view or a full day on foot or on the water, the canyon gives a clear sense of the scale and colour of this part of France.