14 SEP 2023
In our Ducato-based motorhome, we discover the Gorges du Verdon, in the south of France
TOURING IN A MOTORHOME
In its vastness, France has fascinating places in terms of the landscape and appeal for those who decide to go on holiday in their Ducato-based motorhome, An excellent example is the Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe that splays out over a length of more than 25 km, and is formed by rocks that rise up to 700 meters from the foot of the valley and the course of the Verdon river. Part of the south of France, it is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region, on the border of the departments of Var and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It is around 120-150 km north of both Marseille and Nice.
The Gorges du Verdon offer breathtaking landscapes, spectacular views that can be enjoyed both by travelling along the roads, and by stopping at the many panoramic viewpoints. There is no shortage of parking and overnight stays, with the possibility of opting for various campsites, which also have parking spaces and areas set up to park motorhomes. Various outdoor activities also take place there: sports or merely recreational activities, with varying degrees of difficulty and thrill.
The bravest can go whitewater rafting or can climb the rocky ridges, whereas aficionados can walk for hours and hours in unspoilt nature on the many paths intended for trekking, often served by ladders and chains. For people who don't want to prepare specifically and are looking for something quieter. there are a thousand ways to have fun and relax: from simple paths that lead to scenic spots, to stretches for mountain biking. There is also a wide range of water sports for everyone, with canoes and other specific equipment.
The area offers several places of interest: the stretch of the river with the greatest wealth of attractions lies between Castellane and the Lac de Sainte-Croix. Visitors can take the road north of the canyon, packed with viewpoints such as Point-Sublime, or the road south with many spectacular views, for example after Aiguines and the Falaise de Bauchet. The pleasant town of Castellane shows traces of its medieval origins, but there are also other picturesque villages such as Bauduen and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, perched between two large cliffs.
At the end of the Gorges du Verdon, we come to the Lac de Sainte-Croix, an artificial basin created in 1973 following the damming of the river. Despite its artificial nature, it is one of the largest dams in France, at a length of 11 km. The village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which climbs the slope overlooking the lake, can be enjoyed for its stone buildings and the stunning panoramas that can be seen from various spots.
And there we are, ready to set off in our Ducato-based motorhome: the Gorges du Verdon await us with all their appeal and charm.