Exploring Both Banks of the Verdon by Car
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This article invites you to discover the Gorges du Verdon. This destination is not reserved for athletes. It's accessible to everyone. Even by car, the gorges reveal all their grandeur. Thanks to an itinerary designed for one day, you'll appreciate its beauty without intense physical effort.
This car route allows you to see the striking aspects of both banks of the canyon, with numerous stops at viewpoints that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Road Trip Fact Sheet for Gorges du Verdon
Circuit Type: one-day car itinerary with some optional short walks
Departure and Return: Aiguines
Total Distance: approximately 100 km
Driving Time: approximately 3 hours (excluding stops)
Number of Viewpoints: 14 on Route des Crêtes + several others on Corniche Sublime
Ideal Period: April to November
Target Audience: All nature lovers, families, couples, seniors
Recommended Duration: A full day, with many stops to enjoy the viewpoints
Departure from Aiguines: Between Lake and Historic Heritage
Begin your day in Aiguines, a village perched above Lake Sainte-Croix. Its picturesque streets and colorful shuttered houses immerse you in authentic Provence. The panorama from the village is simply striking: the blue of Lake Sainte-Croix contrasts beautifully with the surrounding mountains.
Descent to Lake Sainte-Croix and Pont de Galetas
Leaving Aiguines, head toward Lake Sainte-Croix. Stop at Pont de Galetas, which marks the Gorges entrance. From this 108-meter-long bridge, the view of turquoise waters is striking. It's the ideal place to take great photos or take a break by the lake.
Road D952: Ascending Lake Sainte-Croix to La Palud-sur-Verdon
The D952 road ascending from Lake Sainte-Croix to La Palud-sur-Verdon is a worthwhile leg in itself. Over about 20 km, this winding road offers striking views at each turn.
La Palud-sur-Verdon and Route des Crêtes
From La Palud-sur-Verdon, take the famous Route des Crêtes, a 24-km circuit renowned for its 14 viewpoints offering plunging views of the gorges:
- Carelle Viewpoint: perfect for observing climbers tackling the Escalès cliffs.
- Escalès Viewpoint: an impressive panorama of 400+ meter steep walls.
- Pas de la Baou Viewpoint: at 715 meters altitude, a unique perspective on the Verdon's meanders.
Tunnel du Baou: A Unique Exploration
A few kilometers after La Palud-sur-Verdon, find the Tunnel du Baou. The Tunnel du Baou is 650 meters long. It's a remnant of an unfinished hydro-electric project. Today, it's used by hikers on the Blanc-Martel Trail. Bring a windbreaker and a headlamp.
Point Sublime: Vertiginous Views of Samson Corridor
Continue toward Point Sublime, near Rougon. The view of the Samson corridor, the narrowest section of the gorges, is dazzling. Walls here reach more than 700 meters in height.
Cultural Visit Before Reaching the Other Bank
The road between Rougon and Trigance is a pleasure for landscape enthusiasts. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is less than 30 minutes away.
Rougon Village: Provençal Charm and Wild Nature
Between Point Sublime and Trigance, stop at Rougon. This small Provençal village is perched on high ground with views of Gorges du Verdon. It's an excellent place to observe griffon vultures.
Trigance: History and Tradition at the Heart of the Verdon
After Rougon, head toward Trigance. A charming medieval village with a well-restored fortress that dominates it, now a hotel and restaurant.
Artuby Bridge: A Spectacular Stop
Artuby Bridge is a must-see on the left bank. This arched bridge, 182 meters high, is Europe's highest bungee jumping bridge. For a complete sporting stay, discover all the must-do activities of Gorges du Verdon.
The Mescla Balcony: Meeting of Rivers
Mescla Balcony is one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Corniche Sublime, located where the Artuby meets the Verdon. The term "Mescla" means "mixture" in Provençal.
Eycharme Viewpoint
Eycharme Viewpoint offers unobstructed views of the verdant valley. The Verdon river winds between rocky walls. It's one of the best places to appreciate the gorges' depth.
Return via Col d'Illoire: One Last Look at the Verdon
To conclude your circuit, climb toward Col d'Illoire, located at 967 meters altitude. This final viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix and the gorges below. Return to Aiguines and Villa OVerdon.
Practical Tips for a Successful Day
- Duration: plan a full day.
- Road Conditions: roads are winding and narrow in places. Drive carefully.
- Ideal Period: panoramic roads are generally open April to November.
Consult our practical tips for visiting Gorges du Verdon and our 15 must-do activities.
For More Information
Charming house (6 pers., 3 bedrooms, ground floor, 110m² with spacious living area) with panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix. Quiet, 2 min walk from the village centre. Preserved nature & ideal base for outdoor activities and tourism.
