Top 7 activities in the Gorges du Verdon

Whether you’re a nature lover or a thrill-seeker, the Verdon gorges offer you a wide choice of outdoor sporting activities while taking in the impressive scenery. Bordering the departments of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var, the Verdon takes its name from the Latin for “green place”. And indeed, between the breathtaking mountain scenery and the turquoise colour of the water flowing between the high limestone cliffs, you won’t know where to turn! Discover the must-do activities around one of France’s most beautiful canyons.

What to do in the Gorges du Verdon?

1. Canyoning

Category: €€ / Sensation / Sporty

Description: Discover the pleasure of jumping into crystal-clear water, sliding down natural slides and discovering the wilderness as you make your way along the riverbed. Immersed in the heart of the gorges, you can enjoy an exceptional setting while having fun with canyoning! Whether you prefer swimming, jumping, climbing or hiking, the variety of routes on offer will quench your thirst for adventure. Professionals will be on hand to guide you through this thrilling activity, with routes accessible to all, giving you a friendly and unforgettable experience.

2. Rafting

Category: €€ / Sensation / Sportive

Description: Looking for a thrilling team activity? Try rafting, you won’t be disappointed. Ride down the rapids on an inflatable boat, risk-free thanks to the unsinkable craft and safety equipment, while admiring the wild landscapes only accessible from the river. With friends or family, this fun and exhilarating activity is suitable for all levels by choosing a course adapted to your level.

3. HikingVille de Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Category: € / Sporty

Description: If you fancy a bit more peace and quiet after your aquatic adventures, there’s still a wide choice of walks around the gorges. Explore the valley while enjoying exceptional panoramic views, and discover a natural diversity that will amaze and delight you, with over a third of France’s flora! As close as you can get to the Verdon Regional Nature Park, follow the signposted footpaths that are adapted to your tastes according to the relief and viewpoints. You can also take the opportunity to visit the region’s medieval villages, such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a charming place that seems frozen in time. Built against the mountain and on the shores of Lake Sainte-Croix, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is said to be one of the most beautiful villages in the Verdon.

4. Canoeing

Category: €€ / Sensation / Sportive

Description: Alone or with a partner, a canoe-kayak trip can offer many advantages: whether you need peace and quiet to recharge your batteries close to nature, or rather need thrills and sport, it’s up to you to choose your experience. This activity allows you to admire the beauty of the canyon with its hanging caves and towering limestone cliffs from a privileged vantage point, without disturbing the surrounding nature.

5. Via-Ferrata

Category: € / Sensation / Sportive

Description: Looking for a vertical challenge? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the via ferrata is a perfect blend of hiking and climbing. Accompanied by professionals or equipped with your own gear, this activity will take you out of your everyday life, offering breathtaking panoramas and a variety of sporting activities. A variety of fully-equipped routes are available in the region, offering you a playground conducive to challenge: footbridges, zip-lines, ladders, mountainside paths… All the attractions to satisfy your desire for adventure and discovery.

6. Paragliding

Category: €€€ / Sensation

Description: What could be better than enjoying a sensational view of the natural park from the comfort of your own home? Seen from the air, the Verdon gorges will seem even more majestic in their grandeur and beauty: 165 kilometres of gorges, with Lake Sainte-Croix as the sparkling jewel in the crown. You can enjoy this aerial experience by taking a first flight or learning to fly, with several schools and take-off sites available. You’ll also discover the local wildlife, with birds of prey at your side, making this an unforgettable adventure.

7. Bungee jumping

Artuby Bridge

Category: €€€ / Sensation

Description: For the more adventurous, bungee jumping is the best way to experience a thrill! From the Artuby bridge, with its magnificent view over the river, Europe’s highest bridge for bungee jumping is sure to give you a thrill. Always accompanied by professionals in the sector to ensure you enjoy the experience in complete safety, it’s a unique adventure to be experienced at least once in your life!