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Kayak & hiking the Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon, Provence, France

Last updated: 18 July, 2024

The Gorges du Verdon, often dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’, is a spectacular river canyon in Provence. Carved by the Verdon River, this natural wonder stretches approximately 25km and stretches up to 700m deep, creating dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters that are breathtaking to behold. The canyon’s limestone walls contrast beautifully with the vibrant blue-green river, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.

Visiting the Gorges du Verdon offers numerous activities such as hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and swimming. The Sentier Blanc-Martel is a popular hiking trail that provides stunning panoramic views of the canyon. For a leisurely experience, the scenic Route des Crêtes offers numerous viewpoints along a driving route.

Arguably the best way to explore the Gorges du Verdon, for appreciating the soaring cliffs around you, and the clear blue water below you, is by kayak, paddleboard or motor boat, all of which can be hired on site.

Logistics

Price from: £35

Minimum age: 0

Age suitable: 4+

Frequency: daily

When: All year

Duration: 1hr - 1day

Getting there & doing it

You can rent kayaks (and motorised boats) from Location Nautic, for anything from 1 hour to a full day. Be sure to book them in advance if you’re going in peak season (July and August).

Take warm clothing – due to the steep sides, there’s only a few hours of sunlight in the middle of the day, when the sun is directly overhead. Also note the water is very cold, too cold for swimming except in the heat of summer.

The water is very flat, with no current, so great for families. They have 1 to 4-seater kayaks, so kids don’t have to paddle too much.

Note there are no facilities on the river, so take your own towels, food and drink, and remember to ensure you turn around in time to get back.

When to do it

Kayaks and other watercraft are available to rent from April to October. You can, of course, visit and hike around the gorge at any time of year.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Gorges du Verdon Shared Tour from Nice

Nice

Viator

The Haute Provence offers impressive Canyons, the Gorges du Verdon, dug by the river of the same name. You will discover the huge lake of Sainte Croix and stop in magical places in the heart of nature. You will enjoy the Grand Canyon of France, along with a visit to the 16th century village Castellane (gateway to the Gorges of the Verdon, nestled at the foot of its famous Roc) and pottery-centric village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (the Capital of Fayence) and famous lavender fields (June-July).

Price €125

Min age 0

Rating 4.46 / 5 [133 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Private Tour to Gorges du Verdon and its Lavender Fields

Nice

Viator

Your guide is available and will make sure you have a good time during this unforgettable day in one of the most beautiful settings in the middle mountains of the Southern Alps. The tour will be embellished with many stops. ten in total. You will be able to enjoy comfortable free time at each stop. You can also personalize your visit. If you want to spend more time at one of the proposed stops or take advantage of more time for your lunch and choose a more upscale restaurant, ask your guide at the start of the tour. We propose our tour in 11 hours to be able to offer you these possibilities.

Price €850

Min age 0

Rating 4.57 / 5 [19 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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