Emerald green waters

Gorges du Verdon

Moustieres

Verdon Gorges Tourist Information

It is the “Grand Canyon” of Europe and one of the most striking things is the emerald green colour of the water. The gorges extend from Castellane to the village of Les Salles with the Grand Canyon itself winding for 21 km from the Pont de Soleils, near Rougons, to the Pont du Galetas near Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. From Cannes take the road to Grasse and on to Castellane – interesting town, stop for coffee and pick up information on the Gorges - before travelling to Moustiers. 

Note that the Route des Crétes which takes you through the most impressive part of the canyon is one way - join it at La Palud. The Verdon Gorge is simply breathtaking. Moustiers is an amazing village built in the shape of an amphitheatre and is famous for the chain and ten pointed star hanging above it. In summer it is best to book ahead for hotels.  Le Colombier*** hotel is good and the nearby five star La Bastide de Moustiers hotel restaurant is great for dinner. Pricey but good.

The Lake Sainte Croix is vast...Riez, a Roman town is rather dull but park and see the adjacent Roman columns... and Gréoux-les-Bains is well worth a visit. On the return journey stay at Oops, sorry Aups, gateway to the gorges if you need another break.  Hotel de la Tour is good and there are lots of restaurants in the town. On the way back to Cannes call in at Domaine du Jas d'Esclans to taste the excellent cru classe organic white, rose and red wines.  Route de Callas (D25) La Motte en Provence. www.jasdesclans.fr

The Gorges du Verdon can be done as a day trip from Cannes but a long and tiring one. You’re on holiday for heaven’s sake!