What is there to do in the Verdon region for families or active couples? Here, everything is close by and offers plenty of variety. Within a radius of about 30 kilometers, you’ll find Lake Sainte-Croix, one of the largest in France; the Verdon Gorge, considered the largest canyon in Western Europe; and several hilltop villages ranked among the most beautiful in the country.
No need to choose between swimming, hiking, or exploring the local heritage: you can easily combine all of these activities during a single trip. This guide brings together the must-see spots and a few hidden gems to help you plan a vacation in the Verdon that’s just right for you.
The Verdon with the family: accessible adventures and shared joys
Motorboats are prohibited on Lake Sainte-Croix—a detail that makes all the difference when traveling with children. No waves, no noise, just the turquoise waters of the Verdon and the silence of the cliffs. From Aiguines, you can reach the lake, the canyon entrance, and the overlooks in just a few minutes, making it easy to plan varied days out without ever spending hours in the car. That’s exactly what the Verdon is like for families: a compact area packed with an exceptional variety of activities, from the most peaceful to the most active.
A relaxing day at La Fontaine Beach in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon
To start your stay off on the right foot, head to Fontaine Beach in Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. The gentle slope and sandy bottom make it safe even for the most cautious swimmers, making it ideal for swimming trips for children ages 6 and up.
This spot is one of the quietest access points to Lake Sainte-Croix: less crowded than the Galetas Bridge, it lets you enjoy theturquoise water without the July crowds.
On-site, pedal boats and electric boats are available for rent, allowing the whole family to take to the lake. Families especially appreciate the lack of strong currents, which gives them the freedom to cruise at their own pace.
A canoe or kayak trip starting at the Galetas Bridge is the signature activity on Lake Sainte-Croix. You’ll paddle for 2 km at the entrance to the gorges, between cliffs and turquoise waters, with no difficult currents.
Helpful tip: Head out early in the morning (before 9 a.m.) to enjoy soft light, light winds, and fewer crowds. In July and August, the site gets very busy starting at 10 a.m.
Explore the Quinson Museum of Prehistory: a fun journey back in time
If you’re in the mood to travel back in time, head to the Quinson Museum of Prehistory—often underrated, but a real favorite among families with young children.
Considered one of Europe’s most comprehensive museums on this subject, it sparks children’s curiosity through interactive workshops and life-size recreations.
Here, visitors can learn how the first inhabitants of the Verdon Gorge lived more than 400,000 years ago by handling prehistoric tools and artifacts.
The site also provides access to the Baume Bonne cave, which can be reached on foot depending on the season, offering a fascinating cultural outing that appeals to history buffs and curious children alike.
Outdoor activities for couples In search of thrills in the Verdon
In the Verdon, active couples are spoiled for choice: natural slides and rappelling on canyoning routes, whitewater rafting, multi-pitch climbs on limestone cliffs, and suspension bridges on via ferrata courses. All these activities are available within a 30-kilometer radius, led by professionals, with equipment provided.
Canyoning in the Lower Gorges: active immersion in flowing water
Take the plunge in Europe’s most beautiful canyon! Canyoning in the Basses Gorges is one of the most popular activities among active couples.
The advantage here is the variety of routes with varying levels of difficulty: from the Jabron Canyon, suitable for ages 8 and up with a few 4- to 6-meter jumps, to the Riou Canyon, reserved for seasoned adventurers (ages 14 and up, with rappels over 45 meters). The clear water, natural slides, and jumps add excitement to the descent without making it inaccessible to beginners.
Many centers offer equipment rentals (wetsuits, helmets, harnesses) and instruction from state-certified instructors. So there’s no need to bring your own gear.
From thrills for adrenaline junkies to bursts of laughter, rafting on the Verdon is fun for everyone. Navigate the rapids between Castellane and Lake Sainte-Croix, guided by certified instructors. The trip takes about half a day, and all equipment is provided.
Via ferrata and rock climbing in the Verdon: a guaranteed dizzying duo
Forrock climbingin the Gorges du Verdon, La Palud-sur-Verdon and Rougon are among the best starting points. Located close to the main climbing areas, these villages offer quick access to iconic sites such as L’Escalès, a world-renowned destination for rock climbing.
The right bank of the gorge is known for the exceptional quality of its limestone and its multi-pitch routes, which can be reached by rappelling down from the Route des Crêtes.
For couples who want to experience the thrill of heights without having to master all the climbing techniques, the via ferrata is the perfect alternative. A trail winding through the cliffs of Escalès offers a glimpse into the world of rock climbers. Suspended walkways, rope bridges, and breathtaking views of the canyon are sure to get your heart racing.
Be sure to check the opening hours and conditions of the site with local tourist offices before you go, as some facilities are subject to seasonal maintenance.
Hilltop villages and heritage: must-see getaways around the Verdon
No visit to the Verdon is complete without strolling through its hilltop villages, true Provençal gems clinging to the mountainside. Each has its own unique charm, with narrow streets, passionate artisans, and spectacular views. Families and couples alike will find plenty to fill their photo albums and create delicious memories.
These places embody the spirit of the region, offering a welcome break after a strenuous workout or when the sun gets a little too intense. But be warned: every village also has its own little secrets that are definitely worth discovering.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: charm, earthenware, and waterfalls
Ranked among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” Moustiers-Sainte-Marie captivates visitors with its setting nestled between two cliffs and its star suspended between two rocks.
The cobblestone alleys and fountains tucked away in the shady passageways invite you to wander aimlessly. The Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, accessible after a short climb that’s suitable for teenagers, offers a spectacular view of the valley and the lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau in the distance.
In Moustiers, pottery isn’t just a souvenir from a shop: several workshops open their doors to curious visitors to demonstrate the manufacturing process.
Just a few minutes away, waterfalls invite you to take a refreshing break. Located near the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Riou Waterfall is a favorite spot among visitors.
Notes: Sentinel of Lake Sainte-Croix
Aiguines overlooks Lake Sainte-Croix from its hilltop, with its Renaissance-era castle featuring colorful turrets.
From the Saint-Pierre Chapel, the view plunges down to the turquoise expanse of the lake with the Valensole Plateau in the background—one of the region’s most photographed panoramas.
The village is also known for its woodturning craftsmanship, showcased in a dedicated museum that is unique and not too crowded outside of August.
Rougon: Eagle’s Nest on Point Sublime
Nestled in the heart of the Verdon Gorge, Rougon offers an intimate atmosphere: 100 residents, a vertiginous rocky outcrop, and direct access to the Point Sublime, a legendary viewpoint overlooking the entrance to the Grand Canyon.
It is also from this village that the griffon vultures, reintroduced in the 1990s, circle above the ridges, flying low enough by late morning for children to spot them without binoculars.
Just below Rougon, the Point Sublime is one of the most famous viewpoints in the Verdon. It offers a legendary panoramic view of the “Couloir Samson” (the entrance to the Grand Canyon) and the famous Rocher du Duc. It is very easy to reach on foot from the parking lot.
Legendary hikes and scenic drives to be amazed
Among the hikes in the Verdon, the Blanc-Martel Trail takes you along the emerald-green river beneath 300-meter-high cliffs, passing through tunnels in total darkness. A 14-kilometer adventure set against a truly cinematic backdrop—wild and rugged.
The Route des Crêtes is one of the most scenic drives in Provence. This scenic drive offers spectacular views of the gorges, with overlooks situated at an altitude of nearly 700 meters. Allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours to stop at the 14 designated viewing points, admire the view, take photos, and watch the vultures.
In the northwest of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the Valensole Plateau offers a surreal sight: endless fields of lavender rolling beneath the blue skies of Provence. Between mid-June and mid-July, at sunset, the play of colors is magical.
Book your stay in the Verdon: Why choose La Pinède Campground?
Now that you know what to do in the Verdon, all you need to do is find a place to stay. In Gréoux-les-Bains, our campground in the Verdon is a convenient base from which to explore the region at your own pace.
The Valensole Plateau is 15 minutes away, Lake Sainte-Croix is 35 minutes away, and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is 40 minutes away. All of these destinations are easily accessible in a single day, without any complicated planning.
The accommodations are suitable for both families and couples, offering a range of comfort options: campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs, as well as mobile homes and cabins for rent. Enjoy a family-friendly vacation where you’ll receive a warm welcome in the Verdon region.
