Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive

The Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive is a 129 km road trip that starts and ends in the beautiful French town of Moustiers Sainte Marie. This drive is best experienced during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking. The route takes you through the towns of Trigance and Aiguines, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. Although the roads are partly curvy and narrow, you can still enjoy the journey thanks to the moderate budget requirements. The Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive is perfect for drivers of all levels, providing a high level of experience and memories that will last a lifetime. With a recommended time of 1 day to complete the drive, you can take your time and explore the various attractions the route has to offer. So why not give the Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive a try and make some wonderful memories?

Moustiers Sainte Marie is a charming village located in the South of France, making it the perfect starting point for the breathtaking Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive. Visitors to Moustiers Sainte Marie will be awestruck by the village's incredible beauty, with its winding streets and brightly coloured buildings. The village is also home to a number of historical monuments, including the Church of Notre-Dame-du-Roc and the Chateau des Templiers, both of which are well worth visiting. Those looking to embark on the Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive can easily rent a car from Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), the closest international airport to Moustiers Sainte Marie. There are a number of car rental companies located at the airport, offering a wide range of vehicles to suit all needs. The Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive is a must-do for anyone visiting the area and a great way to take in the stunning scenery of the French countryside. The drive takes visitors past the spectacular Verdon Gorges, with its sheer cliffs and shimmering turquoise waters, and the nearby Lac de Sainte Croix, an idyllic lake surrounded by lush forests. Along the way, visitors can also explore the many quaint villages and historical sites that line the route. Moustiers Sainte Marie is an ideal starting point for the Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive, offering visitors a chance to explore the village's amazing sights before beginning their journey. With its awe-inspiring scenery and abundance of historical attractions, the village is sure to be a memorable part of any trip to the South of France.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Moustiers Sainte Marie, France and explore the stunning landscapes of Canyon du Verdon, Rougon, and Trigance. From Moustiers Sainte Marie, take a 79km drive that will take less than 2 hours and be prepared to be mesmerized by the picturesque views. Keep your eyes open for historical sites and scenic roads. In some sections, the road may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, winding, or narrow, so drive with caution. Along the way, you will discover the beauty of Canyon du Verdon, with its stunning turquoise waters, Rougon, a quaint village with a rich history, and Trigance, a charming medieval village. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Embark on an adventurous road trip from Trigance to Aiguines! This 35 km route will take you less than an hour to complete, but you'll want to take your time and enjoy the scenic views. On the way, make sure to stop at the breathtaking Canyon du Verdon, a magnificent canyon in the south of France. Here, you can take a hike and explore the stunning limestone cliffs, or rent a kayak and paddle down the river. Keep in mind that some sections of the route are inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and the road is very winding and narrow in other sections. Enjoy the ride and take in the beautiful scenery! For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the itinerary of this stage.

Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Aiguines to Moustiers Sainte Marie. This 15 km drive will take you less than an hour, and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the countryside. On this route you will find many attractions, such as the historic castle in Aiguines and the beautiful Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel in Moustiers Sainte Marie. As you drive, take in the stunning views of the Verdon river, and enjoy the picturesque mountain villages and valleys. As you travel, keep an eye out for interesting sites and attractions. You may even spot some wild animals along the way! At the end of your journey, you will reach Moustiers Sainte Marie, a charming village with a rich history and a beautiful lake. Don't forget to visit the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel and the many other sites of interest in the area. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a safe trip!

Moustiers Sainte Marie is the perfect ending point of the "Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive" in France. This charming village, located in the middle of the stunning Provence region, is a must-visit destination. The village itself is filled with old-world charm, cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings. There's plenty to explore, and visitors can even take a guided tour of the village to learn more about its history. Of course, no visit to Moustiers Sainte Marie is complete without a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the village. For those who want to get out and explore the surrounding area, the nearby Verdon Gorge is a must-see. With its spectacular views and crystal-clear waters, it's a great spot for swimming and canoeing. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area, offering stunning views of the region. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE). From there, it's a two-hour drive to Moustiers Sainte Marie. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled road trip, Moustiers Sainte Marie is the perfect place to end the "Verdon Canyon Scenic Drive". With its stunning scenery, charming village, and plenty of outdoor activities, it's sure to be a memorable experience.

Before you set off

The Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) Scenic Drive is an enthralling 129 km loop known as Route des Crêtes that starts and ends in the historic town of Moustiers Sainte Marie, nestled in the heart of Provence, France. This Road Trip not only provides awe-inspiring views of Europe's answer to the Grand Canyon – the Verdon Gorge – but also immerses travelers in the rich cultural tapestry of Provencal life.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

As you meander along this scenic loop, you'll encounter the charming and historical villages of Trigance, known for its medieval castle, and Aiguines, which offers a picture-perfect vantage point of the turquoise Lake of Sainte-Croix. Alongside, you'll be graced with panoramic views of the Verdon Gorge's limestone cliffs, which reach up to 700 meters in height, and the serpentine river below that is a popular spot for kayaking and rafting.

Best Time to Go:

Embarking on this Road Trip in the summer not only provides you with the perfect weather to enjoy the natural beauty but also opens up opportunities for water sports and hiking. It's the most vibrant time of year when the region's flora is in full bloom and the bustling village markets offer a taste of local life.

Potential Risks:

While the route features some challenging Roads with hairpin turns and narrow stretches, they are well-maintained and offer protective barriers in most areas. Vigilance and a moderate driving pace will ensure a safe journey.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Verdon Gorge Scenic Drive is an economical adventure, as there are no tolls or fees for the Road itself.
• Additionally, the route is dotted with free viewpoints and picnic spots, making it a frugal traveler's dream.
• For those interested in geology, the Verdon Gorge is a treasure trove, revealing rock layers that date back to the Triassic period.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Verdon Gorge Scenic Drive is an opportunity to indulge in the natural grandeur and cultural richness of southeastern France. It's a journey that combines breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventure, and a glimpse into the laid-back, pastoral lifestyle of the Provence region, creating an unforgettable sojourn that's much more than a simple drive; it's a celebration of the senses.