alltheflavorsandcolors: Escape to Provence. Part II: Gorges du Verdon

Verdon Gorge ("Gorges du Verdon" or "the Grand Canyon du Verdon") is one of the most impressive canyons in Europe. It has been carved by the Verdon river for almost two million years and is listed as one of the „Grand Sites of France”(https://www.grandsitedefrance.com/). The Natural Regional Park of the Verdon was created in 1997 in order to protect the region and attracts thousands of tourists each year. This is why:

Located in south-eastern France (in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region), the Gorges du Verdons is 25 km long and up to 700 m deep. There is a breathtaking circular route of about 130 kilometers around the rim of the Gorge and this is the main reason tourists from all over the world come here during holidays.

The journey of discovering Gorges du Verdon starts in the picturesque French village of Castellane, with roots dating back to the 16th century.

Continue your trip towards Trigance, a typical Provencal village, with narrow streets and classy hotels. The village is very colorful and hosts during the summer events and traditional fairs from where you can buy traditional French products.

While driving some of the highest points of the Gorge, take your time to admire breath-taking scenery and take as many photos as possible.

Pont de l’Artuby, which is 182 m high, is the place that offers one of the most spectacular views over the river. However, mind the narrow roads, especially during the crowded summer months.

The river Verdon runs for 166 km before it flows into Lake of Sainte-Croix (Lac de Sainte-Croix). This aquamarine lake, one of the biggest artificial lakes in France (about 10 km long and 3 km wide), is where people all over Europe come to relax, enjoy the beach and play water sports, hike or rock climbing. The lake is famous for its turquoise-green color of the water, that is absolutely stunning.

The last stopping point is the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, surrounded by mountains. Do not forget to park at the outskirts of the village, as, during the summer, the village gets pretty crowded. Take your time to explore this charming village at ease, visit the pottery shops for which the village is famous and have lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.

My recommendation for lunch in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie village is Le Relais Restaurant, a traditional French restaurant in the heart of the village.