Pont de Galetas: the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon and its turquoise waters
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Pont de Galetas, at the edge of Lake Sainte-Croix, is one of the most iconic sites at the Verdon. A true gateway to the Gorges du Verdon, it connects the municipality of Aiguines to that of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and marks the meeting point between two distinctive landscapes: the calm of a lake with turquoise waters and the impressive beauty of Europe's deepest canyon. This is where one of the most rewarding adventures begins for those wishing to discover the Verdon, whether by canoe, pedal boat or simply from the bridge with an unforgettable panoramic view.
An emblematic site between lake and canyon
Pont de Galetas was built in the 1970s, during the filling of the Sainte-Croix dam. It spans the Verdon at the exact point where the river leaves the gorges to flow into the lake. This location has become one of the region's most famous postcards: on one side, the vast Lake Sainte-Croix stretches for kilometers; on the other, the vertiginous cliffs of the gorges invite exploration.
To prepare your stay, discover our Verdon tourism guide with its villages, activities and panoramic views.
A breathtaking panorama
From the bridge, visitors enjoy an exceptional viewpoint. Upstream, you can see the narrow entrance to the gorges, framed by limestone cliffs where griffon vultures sometimes soar. Downstream, the horizon opens onto the turquoise waters of the lake, bordered by beaches and wooded hills. Photography enthusiasts won't want to miss this spot, particularly striking at sunrise or sunset.
Essential water activities
Pont de Galetas is also the ideal starting point to immerse yourself in the canyon by boat. At the base of the bridge, on the lake side, several water sports bases offer:
- Rental of canoes, kayaks and pedal boats to explore the first kilometers of the gorges.
- Paddle tours on the lake, as close as possible to the cliffs.
- Swimming outings on beaches near the bridge, ideal for cooling off as a family.
Paddling under cliffs hundreds of meters high is a unique experience that ranks among the Verdon's most popular sports activities.
Around the bridge: villages and discoveries
Pont de Galetas is located a few minutes from two must-visit villages:
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famous for its pottery and ranked among France's most beautiful villages.
- Aiguines, with Provençal charm, and its castle dominating the lake.
Related: Aiguines: The Enchanted Gateway to the Gorges du Verdon
Looking for the ideal place to stay in the region? Check out our article on Verdon villages where to sleep.
It's also a strategic crossroads for discovering the two shores of the gorges: the left bank with the Corniche Sublime, and the right bank with the ridge road 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 eponymous dam. This modern structure replaced the old roads drowned by the water reserve and has since played an essential role: connecting the villages of Aiguines (Var) and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence) while marking the natural boundary between canyon and lake. Since its construction, it has become a major visual landmark, offering a scenic view of the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon and the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix. More than just a simple road passage, Pont de Galetas has become a symbol of the area's transformation during the dam's filling in 1973-1974 (Inventory Région Sud, Wikipedia – Lake Sainte-Croix).
Over the decades, Pont de Galetas became much more than a simple road infrastructure. Thanks to its privileged location at the boundary between canyon and lake, it is now a major tourist landmark, offering a scenic view of two of Provence's most famous natural jewels: Lake Sainte-Croix and the Gorges du Verdon.
Today, it attracts both history and architecture enthusiasts as well as landscape lovers. It is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Verdon on foot or by boat, making it a place where memory, nature and adventure meet.
Practical information
- Location: D957 between Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
- Access: parking available nearby.
- Activities: canoe, pedal boat, paddle, swimming.
- Best period: spring and fall to avoid summer crowds.
- Photography tip: choose morning or evening light.
For all your questions, check our FAQ on the Gorges du Verdon.
Pont de Galetas, a must-visit on your Verdon stay
Whether you're seeking water thrills, breathtaking panoramas or a lakeside relaxation spot, Pont de Galetas is a must-visit during your stay in the Gorges du Verdon. A symbol of the meeting between canyon and Lake Sainte-Croix, it will remain one of the striking images of your vacation.
And to make the most of this unique setting, stay at Villa Overdon, a charming house in Aiguines with a panoramic view of Lake Sainte-Croix. An exceptional place for your vacation with family, friends or as a couple in the heart of the Verdon.
FAQ – Pont de Galetas and entrance to the Gorges du Verdon
❓ Where is Pont de Galetas located?
Pont de Galetas is located on the D957, between the villages of Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, at the edge of Lake Sainte-Croix. It marks the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon and is one of the region's most famous viewpoints.
❓ Can you swim at Pont de Galetas?
Yes, swimming is allowed and safe on the nearby shores on the Lake Sainte-Croix side. The water is known for its turquoise color and clarity, making it a favorite spot for families.
❓ What activities can you do at Pont de Galetas?
The bridge is an ideal starting point for renting pedal boats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards to explore the first kilometers of the Gorges du Verdon. It's also perfect for swimming, relaxing on beaches and photography.
❓ What is the best time to visit Pont de Galetas?
The summer period attracts many visitors. To fully enjoy the site with less crowding, spring and fall are the ideal seasons. The lake and gorge colors are wonderful.
❓ How much time should you plan to discover the site?
For a simple photo stop, allow about 15 minutes. If you want to rent a canoe and explore the gorges, plan 2 to 3 hours for a complete experience.
❓ What villages are worth visiting near Pont de Galetas?
The two nearest villages are Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, ranked among France's most beautiful villages, and Aiguines, known for its castle dominating the lake and olive wood craftsmanship.
❓ Is Pont de Galetas accessible by car?
Yes, the bridge is directly accessible by car via the D957. Parking is available nearby, particularly on the lake side, to facilitate visitor access.
🌊 Pont de Galetas Gateway
The iconic meeting point between turquoise lake waters and the dramatic Gorges du Verdon canyon — the perfect starting point for your Verdon adventure.
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.
