Discovering the Hidden Gem of France: Gorges du Verdon
This vast river canyon in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of south-eastern France is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, climbing, and paragliding. It also happens to be where we spent part of our summer travels in France with our Adamo 75-4DL.
The gorge itself spans around 25 kilometres, though the natural park it lies within is considerably larger. There are numerous campsites to choose from, providing excellent bases from which to explore. We chose the wonderful Domaine du Verdon, a five-star campsite within the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s European network.
Located just a few kilometres from the charming village of Castellane, Domaine du Verdon is one of the best family campsites we’ve experienced in Europe. With two state-of-the-art swimming pools, a variety of children’s activity centres, a small fishing lake, shops, restaurants, and daily entertainment for all ages, the site offers plenty against the stunning backdrop of Verdon Natural Park. For those who prefer a more laid-back holiday, there’s hardly a reason to leave the site.
However, the true beauty of the region is revealed as you head south on the D952 towards the gorge. This scenic road winds alongside the Verdon River, passing under rocky overhangs and through narrow passages until reaching the northern tip of the gorge, where the road splits. From here, there’s one of France’s most spectacular driving and cycling loops. The road appears to cling to the rim of the gorge, offering stunning views down to the turquoise waters below.
While the views from the rim are breath-taking, the real adventure awaits on the pristine waters below. If you don’t have your own kayak or paddleboard, several operators at the top end of Lac de Sainte-Croix offer rentals, including pedal boats and small motorised boats. Spending a few hours leisurely cruising down the gorge, stopping for occasional swims, or jumping off cliff ledges if you’re feeling daring, is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon and absorb the laid-back energy of the area.
Further from the gorge, you’ll find some of Provence’s most delightful rural villages, with Cotignac being particularly worth a visit, especially on market day. Unlike some French markets that cater to tourists, Cotignac’s weekly Tuesday market retains a distinctly regional feel.
Early in the morning, the main street, Cours Gambetta, is closed off, and around a hundred stalls selling a variety of local produce, Provençal cuisine, charming crafts, and unique artisanal products emerge. Arriving early is advisable to beat the crowds and get the best selection, as it becomes busier later in the morning. Once you’ve explored the market, step back to enjoy the rest of the village.
Walking through the delightful streets of Cotignac, you’ll be captivated by the well-preserved architecture that reflects the village’s rich history. Down narrow side streets, you’ll find pastel-coloured houses adorned with vibrant flowers, hidden squares, quaint cafes, and charming boutiques. At the northern end of the village, there’s a network of troglodyte caves carved into the limestone cliffs, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past for the adventurous.
While we love the more well-known regions of France, such as the Alps, the Pyrenees, and Beaujolais, our week exploring the Gorges du Verdon opened our eyes to a region that deserves a spot on everyone’s French travel bucket list. If you’re planning a visit and would like further guidance, feel free to get in touch with Marcus directly. You can find us on Instagram at @marcusleachglobal and @themotorhomingfamily, or on X at @MarcusGLeach.
