Pont de Galetas: Gateway to the Gorges du Verdon & Lake Sainte-Croix

Pont de Galetas: The Gateway to the Gorges du Verdon and Its Turquoise Waters

Pont de Galetas, at the far end of Lake Sainte-Croix, is one of the Verdon's most iconic landmarks. A true gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, it connects the village of Aiguines to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and marks the meeting point of two spectacular landscapes: the calm of a turquoise lake and the majesty of Europe's deepest canyon. This is where one of the finest Verdon adventures begins — whether by canoe, pedal boat, or simply from the bridge with an unforgettable panoramic view.

An Iconic Spot Between Lake and Canyon

Pont de Galetas was built in the early 1970s, during the flooding of the Sainte-Croix dam reservoir. It spans the Verdon at the exact point where the river leaves the gorges and flows into the lake. The spot has become one of the region's most famous postcards: on one side, the vast Lake Sainte-Croix stretches for kilometres; on the other, the vertiginous gorge cliffs invite exploration.

For trip planning, see our Verdon tourism guide.

A Breathtaking Panorama

From the bridge, visitors enjoy an exceptional viewpoint. Upstream, you can see the narrow gorge entrance, framed by limestone cliffs where griffon vultures sometimes circle. Downstream, the horizon opens onto the turquoise lake waters, bordered by beaches and wooded hills. Photographers won't want to miss this spot, which is particularly spectacular at sunrise or sunset.

Must-Do Water Activities

Pont de Galetas is also the ideal starting point for immersing yourself in the canyon by boat. At the foot of the bridge, on the lake side, several water-sport bases offer:

• Canoe, kayak and pedal boat hire to paddle the first kilometres into the gorges.
• Paddleboard sessions on the lake, close to the cliffs.
• Swimming stops on nearby beaches, perfect for a family dip.

Paddling beneath cliffs several hundred metres high is a unique experience and one of the Verdon's most popular outdoor activities.

Read more: Pedal boat ride in the Gorges du Verdon — locations, prices & tips

Nearby Villages and Discoveries

Pont de Galetas is just a few minutes from two unmissable villages:

• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famous for its faience pottery and classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
• Aiguines, with its Provençal charm and castle overlooking the lake.

It's also a strategic crossroads for exploring both gorge rims: the left bank with the Corniche Sublime, and the right bank with the Route des Crêtes and its viewpoints.

History of Pont de Galetas

Pont de Galetas was built in the early 1970s, directly linked to the creation of Lake Sainte-Croix and the commissioning of the dam. This modern structure replaced the old roads submerged by the reservoir and has played an essential role ever since: connecting Aiguines (Var) and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence) while marking the natural border between canyon and lake.

Over the decades, it has become far more than a simple road crossing. Thanks to its prime location at the border between canyon and lake, it is now a major tourist landmark. Today it attracts history and architecture enthusiasts as well as lovers of grand landscapes — a place where memory, nature, and adventure meet.

Practical Information

• Location: D957 between Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
• Access: Car parks available nearby
• Activities: Canoe, pedal boat, paddleboard, swimming
• Best time: Spring and autumn to avoid summer crowds
• Photo tip: Aim for morning or evening light

FAQ — Pont de Galetas

Where is Pont de Galetas?
On the D957, between Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, at the tip of Lake Sainte-Croix. It marks the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon.

Can you swim at Pont de Galetas?
Yes, swimming is permitted on the shores near the bridge, on the Lake Sainte-Croix side. The water is renowned for its turquoise colour and clarity — a favourite with families.

What activities are available?
Pedal boat, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard hire to enter the first kilometres of the gorges. Also swimming, relaxing on nearby beaches, and photography.

What is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn for fewer crowds and beautiful colours. Summer is busiest — arrive early in the morning.

How long should you allow?
15 minutes for a quick photo stop. 2–3 hours if you rent a canoe and explore the gorges.

Which villages are nearby?
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Most Beautiful Villages of France) and Aiguines (castle, lake views, woodturning craft).

Where to Stay

Villa OVerdon in Aiguines — a charming house with a panoramic lake view, just minutes from Pont de Galetas. The ideal base for your Verdon holiday. Learn more.