THE GORGES DU VERDON

In the north of Provence verte, between the communes of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Gorges du Verdon are Europe's largest canyon. These immense gorges separate the Pre-Alps of Castellane from the Pre-Alps of Digne, and are the result of erosion by the Verdon river. The Verdon rises at 2,819 metres above sea level on the Col d'Allos, and flows for 175 km. More than just a tumultuous river, the site features gigantic limestone cliffs. They range in height from 250 to 700 metres and in width from 6 to 100 metres, and even from 200 to 1,500 metres at the top of the gorges! In the midst of protected natural areas rich in flora and fauna, the Verdon has many faces: invigorating and thrilling as it winds its way through impressive gorges with bubbling white waters, or calm and serene as it reaches one of its 4 lakes (Esparron, Quinson, Sainte-Croix and Castillon), whose still, tranquil waters are perfect for swimming. Lac de Sainte-Croix is the most popular, for the incredible emerald color of its waters, due to the presence of suspended micro-algae. It rises at the Col d'Allos and then travels 175 km. The lake is one of the most popular bathing spots in the Gorges du Verdon, and is also used for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.

The Verdon is a prime location for leisure activities of all kinds, but it's the water sports that are the most popular: canoeing, kayaking, rafting and even hydrospeed. Whether you prefer thrills or relaxation in a unique natural setting, you'll find the choice here, between lakes and canyons! Climbing is another sport widely practised in the Verdon Gorge. With 2,500 routes, it's one of the world's favorite climbing sites! Climbing has been practised in the Gorges du Verdon since the late 60s, and today the routes have been adapted and some closed in order to preserve the wildlife, notably the griffon and black vultures - reintroduced a few years ago - that nest in the cliffs. Another popular activity in the Gorges du Verdon is hiking. With its exceptional natural setting, the site lends itself perfectly to hiking! You'll have to choose between high altitude trails, offering exceptional panoramic views, or lakeside paths, relaxing and soothing. Among the most famous trails is the Imbut. A good level of fitness and preparation is required, as it is just under 10 km long and takes around 5 hours to complete. The route starts at the Auberge des cavaliers d'Aiguines and descends to the Baou Béni beach. You'll find yourself in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon, facing an exceptional landscape. Beware, however, that the rocks can be slippery - this hike is not recommended for children under 12 - and the route can be daunting for those prone to vertigo. For a more leisurely stroll, opt for the path leading to the Notre-Dame du Roc chapel. It starts at the Castellane swimming pool parking lot and leads, as its name suggests, to the Notre-Dame-du-Roc chapel. This building, whose current architecture dates from 1876, was originally built in 1703 on the ruins of a 9th-century

^9th-century chapel. The Notre-Dame-du-Roc chapel lies at an altitude of 903 metres, and can be reached in forty minutes along a path that offers fine views over Castellane. Don't forget water and sun cream! Finally, sports enthusiasts will appreciate the "Plein voir par le col de l'âne" hike. From the Plein voir lookout, you have a unique view of the meeting of the gorges and the Lac de Sainte-Croix. Departure is from the Félines parking lot in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Remember that, to hike safely, it's essential to stay on the marked trails at all times. This also helps to avoid disturbing the flora and fauna.

The entire Verdon Regional Nature Park is home to a third of France's flora, and the fauna is equally diverse: little bustards, vultures, ocellated lizards - the largest in Europe - and around 20 species of bats... The area boasts a remarkable natural wealth, reflecting both Alpine and Mediterranean influences.

The Gorges du Verdon can also be explored through the various villages. Don't miss Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, listed as one of France's "most beautiful villages", and Aiguines, which overlooks Lake Sainte-Croix and offers splendid views. We also stop off at Rougon, a must-see vulture-watching spot, and Entrevaux for its heritage. Fortified by Vauban at the end of the ^17th century, Entrevaux boasts a cathedral dating from the same period and a citadel accessed via a hillside path. Quinson, at the entrance to the lower Gorges du Verdon, boasts a lake and an interesting prehistory museum, one of the richest in Europe. The museum traces the human history of Provence from the Lower Palaeolithic to the Metal Age, and features reconstructed settlements based on archaeological data. Last but not least, the hilltop villages of Saint-Julien-du-Verdon, Rougon and La Palud-sur-Verdon are also pleasant places to stop, offering beautiful views over the gorges.