Things to do in the south of France
The majestic power of its gorges and the splendor of its lakes are not the only things that make the Verdon shine. It is a land rich in culture and history that invites you to visit its quaint, peaceful villages. So You must decide where to go, which villages to visit. And also where to stay whether you are just passing through or taking your time to explore the area.
The following articles will all assist you in getting ready for your visit. Additionally, you can book specific activities in each village directly on our website. So, follow our advice to perfectly organize your stay in the Verdon villages..
Verdon Villages in very different tourist landscapes
Separated into different areas, the Verdon Regional Natural Park offers a great diversity of tourist sights. Beside, each of these villages are a reflection of the natural and cultural identities of this area.
The Gorges du Verdon runs from Moustiers Sainte-Marie to the west, to Castellane to the east. As you explore the gorges, take a moment to visit La Palud-sur-Verdon and Rougon, two of the prettiest villages in the Verdon. Furthermore, you’ll have the privilege of the famous route des crêtes.
The plateau de Valensole, well-known for its lavender, truffles and its wide array of colors throughout the year. By visiting the villages of Riez, Allemagne-en-Provence, and Valensole. It is one of the Verdon’s must-see spots, and you will absolutely visit it during your stay.
Lastly, the low gorges are located between the lake of Sainte-Croix and the Durance. Because your route will take you through the villages of Quinson and Esparron-de-Verdon. Which are home to two of the Verdon’s most stunning lakes and Gréoux-les-Bains, is famous for its thermal waters.
Gastronomy and crafts in the heart of the Verdon villages
Among this multitude of towns dissipated in the Verdon, some have become popular thanks to their gastronomy, their specialty, or their artworks. It is the situation of Moustiers Sainte-Marie for instance, that the delicacy of its stoneware delineates since more than three hundred years. You can visit the gallery which shows the most lovely pieces made since the 17th century.
The dark truffle is a notable specialty of the Verdon, and the towns of Aups and Montpezat are its most popular delegates. You can taste it all over, and visit the Maison de la truffe in Aups. Specifically, it offers a few perky ways to deal with enter with your kids into the secretive universe of truffles.
Lastly, for a dive into Provençal arts and crafts, you will find in the town of Aiguines – The world of wood turning traditional craft alive today. Then, you will go to Tourtour, the town overhead, to enter the plentiful displays of contemporary craftsmanship.
Team Building in the most beautiful Verdon villages
Are you looking for a place to organize your Team Building seminar in a beautiful region? We offer all-inclusive packages where you will stay in the most beautiful villages of the Verdon and enjoy the local gastronomy. One or more sports activities of your choice are of course included in the packages. Thanks to our experts and our organization, you will offer your team a unique experience that will combine challenge and relaxation for a stay in the heart of the largest canyon in Europe.
Moreover, the Verdon is an easily accessible region. It is only 1 hour and a half away from the airports of Marseille, Aix-en-Provence and Nice. Visit our Team Building page to book your seminar or get more information.
Which villages to visit around the lake of Sainte-Croix ?
First and foremost, if you want to see the most beautiful views of the Lac de Sainte-Croix, you should visit the village of Aiguines.
Aiguines, located 800 meters above the Sainte-Croix Lake, is a charming town with a variety of activities. Whether it is lazing around or climbing that tempts you, you will find your happiness there.
Besides, if you want to spend some time close to the lake, the village of Salles-sur-Verdon is ideally located on the waterfront. It is a very popular destination due to the abundance of campsites. Moreover, with so many activities on the lake you could stay for a week without getting bored.
The village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, on the opposite bank, is located at the exit of the famous Verdon gorges. The old village, built on a promontory overlooking the lake of Sainte-Croix. It is very lively in the summer and offers many accommodations for a Provencal stay in the heart of the Verdon.
Finally, one of the most beautiful Verdon sites is the village of Bauduen, which clings to the lake’s quiet southern shores. Its charming little streets and old stone houses form an arc around the lake. Bauduen is also a great place to start great hikes and discover beautiful hidden beaches.
What are the most beautiful Verdon villages near the gorges?
It is of course difficult to determine which are the most beautiful villages of the Gorges du Verdon. Nevertheless, most of the visitors agree on some names today representative of the attractions of the region, and at the origin of its legend.
Moustiers Sainte-Marie, west of the gorges, is without doubt one of them. You will walk through its streets steeped in history and you will discover the beauty of its faience factory in a magnificent setting. And in addition to being one of the most beautiful villages of the Verdon, it is very well placed to start its visit of the Gorges.
We have already mentioned the village of Aiguines, which overlooks the lake of Sainte-Croix. It is certainly one of the most beautiful villages, and it offers the best views on the pearl of the Verdon. It is also a paradise for climbing, and its surroundings are a superb and wild natural setting for a stay in the heart of the Verdon.
Finally, it is the village of Castellane which is part of our top 3 today. In a timeless setting at the end of the Gorges du Verdon, dominated by the Notre-Dame rock, you will walk quietly in a village with a unique atmosphere. Moreover, Castellane is labeled “Village and City of Character” and even more than its charm, it is its character that will pleasantly surprise you during your visit.
