Two days are all it takes to get away from it all in Haute-Provence. Spend a weekend in the Verdon region to escape the daily grind and explore the Gorges du Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the Lower Gorges, and Gréoux-les-Bains. Easy to reach, the Verdon offers a nature getaway without having to travel far: less than1.5 hours from Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, and about 2 hours from Toulon. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, there’s plenty to do to plan a short trip full of memories, without having to rush around.
Friday night: Arrival in Gréoux-les-Bains and the first scents of the Verdon
To get your weekend in the Verdon off to a good start, it’s best to arrive in the late afternoon. The light softens, the hills take on warm hues, and you’ll immediately get into the rhythm of the South.
Located at the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon, Gréoux-les-Bains is known for its thermal baths. It’s a great starting point for exploring the Verdon, visiting Lake Esparron, Lake Sainte-Croix, or Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. You are here in France’s third-largest spa town.
This small spa town, located just 1.8 km from the La Pinède campground in the Verdon, offers everything you need to settle in comfortably, with that vibrant Provençal atmosphere —full of color, high in the mountains, and rich in contrasts—that you feel the moment you arrive.
In the evening, simply soak up the atmosphere of Gréoux: a few medieval alleyways to explore, a Templar castle, terraces where you can linger, a stroll along the Verdon River, and then a return to tranquility to kick off the weekend on the right foot. The next day, it’s time to explore the Verdon’s most spectacular landscapes.
Saturday: the Verdon Gorge, A weekend in the heart of Europe’s largest canyon
The first full day is devoted to the must-see sights. The Verdon Gorge stretches for about 40 kilometers, winding through limestone cliffs, lookouts, and scenic roads. In some places, the walls rise between 250 and 700 meters high. A real-life playground for hiking enthusiasts in the Verdon.
The Verdon Canyon (Right Bank)
This morning, take the Right Bank. After a stop at the Mayreste lookout point, you’ll reach the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, the starting point of the spectacular Route des Crêtes. Designed as a one-way road along its most impressive stretch, it takes you to the Escalès viewpoint, where the cliffs drop sheer and griffon vultures soar above the abyss.
A little further east, on the heights above the village of Rougon, the Point Sublime offers a sweeping view of the entrance to the Verdon Canyon. It is one of the most famous vantage points, providing a panoramic view of the Samson Gorge.
Refreshment Break at Lake Sainte-Croix
Midday, head back down to Lake Sainte-Croix. This is one of the great joys of a weekend in the Verdon: going from the cliffs to the calm waters of the lake in just a few kilometers.
Once there, the turquoise waters, well-maintained beaches, and wooded hills invite you to slow down. You can rent a pedal boat,kayak, or stand-up paddleboard to reach the entrance to the gorges from the lake, passing under the famous Galetas Bridge. For couples, it’s a magical experience. For families, the kids won’t want to leave.
To get the most out of it, it’s best to arrive early, especially in July and August. The parking lots near the Galetas Bridge and the beaches fill up quickly during peak season.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, her earthenware and her hanging star
After visiting the lake, be sure to make your way to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, this hilltop village is one of the highlights of a weekend in the Verdon.
Perched on a cliffside, bisected by a rushing stream, and dominated by its golden star suspended between two rocky peaks, Moustiers is a living postcard of the Verdon. Here, you can stroll through the narrow streets, discover the pottery workshops renowned since the 17th century, and stop for a coffee on a terrace.
Don’t miss the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir Chapel, accessible via a 262-step stone staircase winding up the hillside. At the end of the day, the low-angled light on the stone walls gives the village a very special atmosphere.
Sunday: The Lower Verdon Gorges: Between Lakes and Lavender Fields
On Sundays, the Verdon takes on a more serene atmosphere. Less well-known than the Grand Canyon, the Lower Gorges of the Verdon nevertheless hold some wonderful surprises. Located between Lake Quinson and Lake Esparron, this labyrinth of cliffs opens up to a side of the Verdon that passing tourists don’t always get to see.
Lake Esparron
Lake Esparron-de-Verdon is a quieter alternative to Lake Sainte-Croix. This “Provençal fjord” is less crowded and more untamed. The developed beaches are perfect for swimming. You can rent a canoe to explore the Basses Gorges or discover secret coves accessible only by water.
The Lavender Trails between Valensole and Riez
After enjoying Lake Esparron, continue your drive to the village of Valensole. If you visit during the peak season (June/July), this is a must-see stop. The plateau begins just above Esparron. You’ll drive through fields of lavender and wheat stretching as far as the eye can see. Stop at one of the local distilleries or farm shops along the road (such as Maison Angelvin) to taste authentic lavender honey or pick up some artisanal products.
Not far from there, the village of Riez is also worth a visit. At the entrance to this hilltop village, four ancient granite columns stand in the middle of a field, the remains of a 2nd-century Roman temple. It’s a quick but impressive stop. Then take a stroll down the Grand-Rue to admire the colorful facades, Renaissance mansions, and old fortified gates. It’s a lively, authentic village that’s less touristy than Moustiers.
Practical information for your weekend in the Verdon
When to go? From April to October, with a preference for spring (May–June) and late summer (September–October) to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying the warm weather and vibrant colors.
How do I access it? Between 1.5 and 2.5 hours from Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, or Toulon, and up to 3 hours from the most remote parts of the canyon, the villages of the Verdon welcome you to their unspoiled natural setting. Fast-charging stations are now available in the region’s villages, from Les Sources to the Gorges du Verdon.
Pack the following: hiking shoes, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a jacket for the evening (nights in the Verdon can get chilly during the off-season), and plenty of water.
Reservations: During peak season (July–August), be sure to book your lodging and boat, paddleboard, or canoe rentals in advance. Last-minute camping in the Verdon is still possible, even outside of peak season.
