The Gorges du Verdon is called “Europe’s reply to the Grand Canyon“, the Telegraph stories. Positioned in Province’s Verdon Pure Regional Park in South France, the Gorges du Verdon is a staggering 25km lengthy and 700 metres deep, which wins it the title of Europe’s deepest canyon. The route across the gorge’s rim additionally makes for a spectacular highway journey with epic views of the Verdon River. All in all, it takes round one and a half hours to finish straight by means of, so you will have loads of time to discover the stops alongside the best way.
Start in Trigance, Var
The historic village of Trigance close to the japanese finish of the Gorges du Verdon is a well-liked spot to kick off this highway journey. From right here, you’ll wish to take the D90 south till you attain D71. Then, flip proper towards Balcons de la Mezcla: an epic viewpoint that gives beautiful views of the Verdon River beneath. Towering 820 toes above the water, the Balcons de la Mezcla isn’t for the faint of coronary heart. The highway will get pretty slim and twisty at occasions, though it’s reassuring to know accidents listed below are uncommon. But, accountable driving is a should regardless, so follow the pace restrict and all the time decelerate when nearing bends.
It additionally helps to decide on a dependable automotive in your highway journey. An SUV is an efficient selection because it’s pretty straightforward to manoeuvre, can deal with difficult terrains, and provides a transparent view of the highway. In actual fact, SUVs now account for over 51% of automotive gross sales in Europe. Mid-size SUVs, specifically, strike a pleasant stability between space for storing, affordability, and security options. Some fashions even include traction management, blind spot monitoring, and stability management to maintain you safer on the highway.
Cease at Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
It received’t be lengthy till you attain the village of Aiguines: the right spot for a chunk to eat. For those who want a superb advice, attempt Le Rhumarin. This common restaurant serves a tasty mixture of French and Mediterranean delicacies, and you may absorb beautiful views of the Sainte Croix lake whereas having fun with your meals. When you’ve eaten your fill, drive the D957 till you attain Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a lovely village located between two dramatic cliffs. Go to the well-known Notre Dame de Beauvoir Chapel — it’s simply above the village on a cliff ledge. Constructed within the late XIIth century, the chapel combines Gothic and Romanesque structure and provides beautiful views of the village beneath.
Whereas in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, take a while to wander by means of the slim streets lined with charming pottery outlets. The village is famend for its faïence pottery, a convention that dates again to the seventeenth century. You may even go to the Atelier Bondil, the place you possibly can see artisans at work and buy distinctive handmade items to take house as souvenirs. Moreover, the village is a good spot to select up some native lavender merchandise, together with oils, soaps, and sachets, which make for fantastic items or private treats.
The Northern Rim
When you’re again on the highway, it’s time to journey throughout the gorge’s northern rim (the rive droite). Drive the cliffside Route des Crests, which spans 13 kilometres between Cassis and La Ciotat, and cease on the Belvedere du Tilleul overlook for among the finest views over the canyon. This part of the drive provides quite a few viewpoints the place you possibly can park and take within the breathtaking surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to take images and even perhaps take pleasure in a picnic with a view.
Your highway journey lastly wraps up in Draguignan, the place you possibly can reward your self with a meal at one of many many fine-dining eating places. Think about eating at La Voute, which provides a classy menu that includes native produce and expertly ready dishes. Draguignan additionally has a number of historic websites price visiting, such because the American Cemetery and Memorial, the place you possibly can pay respects to fallen troopers from World Battle II. Moreover, discover the native markets for contemporary produce, cheeses, and wines to convey a style of Provence again house with you.
The Gorges du Verdon is considered one of France’s most scenic highway journeys. By planning your route prematurely, your highway journey journey is certain to go off with no hitch. Alongside the best way, you’ll expertise not solely the pure great thing about the gorge but in addition the wealthy historical past and tradition of the area. Whether or not you’re an avid photographer, a historical past buff, or just somebody seeking to chill out and take within the beautiful landscapes, the Gorges du Verdon provides one thing for everybody.