Verdon Gorge: The Grand canyon of Europe, Lake and Lavender

French Riviera, Nice



Spend the day in the Gorges du Verdon and its breathtaking views along the canyon. Visit the villages of Castellane and Moustiers in the Alps. Enjoy the lavender fields and take a swim in the lake.

Verdon Gorge Guided Tour from Nice

Experience a full-day guided tour from Nice to the Verdon Gorge, ideal for nature lovers and those interested in scenic drives, alpine villages, and outdoor activities.

Highlights

  • View the Verdon Gorge’s impressive canyon and turquoise river
  • Visit the medieval villages of Moustiers Sainte-Marie and Castellane
  • See the Saut du Loup waterfall in the Gorges du Loup
  • Swim in Lake Sainte-Croix
  • Admire blooming lavender fields in June and July

Description

Depart from the French Riviera for a scenic drive through the Gorges du Loup, stopping to photograph the Saut du Loup waterfall. Continue into the French Alps to Castellane, a village at the entrance of the Verdon Gorge, known for its striking 180-meter rock topped by a church. Enjoy free time to explore.

Follow the Verdon River, noted for its distinctive turquoise color, to Europe's largest canyon, which reaches depths of up to 700 meters. The tour includes a photo stop overlooking Lake Sainte-Croix at the canyon’s end.

Visit Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a medieval village with a rich ceramic heritage. You will have time to walk and dine here. Depending on weather and preferences, the guide may offer lakeside free time instead of the village walk.

From mid-June to late July, expect to see the surrounding fields in bloom with lavender, enhancing the natural landscape.

Includes

  • Bottled water
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Professional guide

Excludes

  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • This tour depends on weather conditions
  • Lavender season runs from late June to mid-July

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and swimwear if you plan to swim. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during lavender season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a scenic drive through Gorges du Loup, visits to Moustiers Sainte-Marie and Castellane villages, swimming in Lake Sainte-Croix, and views of the Verdon Gorge and Saut du Loup waterfall.
The tour lasts a full day, typically around 10 to 12 hours, departing and returning to Nice.
Lavender fields bloom and are best seen in June and July during the guided tour season.
Yes, the tour includes an opportunity to swim in the clear waters of Lake Sainte-Croix.
The tour departs from central locations in Nice; exact meeting points are provided upon booking.
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, but children should be supervised during outdoor activities like swimming.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and a camera for the scenic drive and outdoor stops.
Meals are generally not included; participants often stop at local restaurants in alpine villages.
Yes, many guided tours from Nice offer English-speaking guides for international visitors.
Yes, transportation is provided by coach or minibus for the entire round trip from Nice to the Verdon Gorge.

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