Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge lies in the south east of France and is the deepest gorge in Europe.  The gorge is about 25km long and up to 700m deep and cuts through limestone mass.  The Verdon river is named for the amazing turquoise-green colour of the water. We spent some time swimming in the water and were amazed at its clarity, yet the incredible colour. 

Lac Saintes-Croix-du-Verdon

The bottom end of the gorge - isn't the water's colour amazing!

We started on the western end of the gorge where it flows into the Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon which is a man made reservoir.  We had an amazing (typical) french lunch and a swim in the surreal turquoise water of the lake.

Picnic lunch - yum!

The water was lovely!

The road around the gorge takes you along the edge and affords amazing views down through the limestone cliffs and forest to the river.  The area is not just famous for its views, but also for rock climbing, hiking, canyoning and kayaking. We were sorry to only have had a day in this outdoors mecca and will have to come back here to explore more.

The river below with much climbing in between.

A lovely bridge. Geoff spent some time wandering over it trying to work it out.

The obligatory jumping photo with the bridge behind.

We were excited to spot a Griffon Vulture colony on one of the cliff faces - about 40 birds circling, on nests and perched on the top of the cliff.  Very special.


The Verdon Gorge is definitely a must-see for anyone visiting the South of France and for any climbers looking for some great crags....