The Gorges du Verdon is named “Europe’s reply to the Grand Canyon“, the Telegraph studies. Situated 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 street journey with epic views of the Verdon River. All in all, it takes round one and a half hours to finish straight by way of, so you’ve 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 street journey. From right here, you’ll need to take the D90 south till you attain D71. Then, flip proper towards Balcons de la Mezcla: an epic viewpoint that gives gorgeous views of the Verdon River under. Towering 820 toes above the water, the Balcons de la Mezcla isn’t for the faint of coronary heart. The street will get pretty slim and twisty at instances, though it’s reassuring to know accidents listed below are uncommon. But, accountable driving is a should regardless, so stick with the pace restrict and at all times decelerate when nearing bends.
It additionally helps to decide on a dependable automobile to your street journey. An SUV is an efficient selection because it’s pretty straightforward to manoeuvre, can deal with difficult terrains, and presents a transparent view of the street. In actual fact, SUVs now account for over 51% of automobile gross sales in Europe. Mid-size SUVs, specifically, strike a pleasant steadiness 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 street.
Cease at Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
It gained’t be lengthy till you attain the village of Aiguines: the right spot for a chew to eat. When you want advice, strive Le Rhumarin. This standard restaurant serves a tasty mixture of French and Mediterranean delicacies, and you’ll soak up attractive 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 fantastic 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 presents gorgeous views of the village under.
Whereas in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, take a while to wander by way of the slim streets lined with charming pottery retailers. The village is famend for its faïence pottery, a convention that dates again to the seventeenth century. You possibly can even go to the Atelier Bondil, the place you possibly can see artisans at work and buy distinctive handmade items to take residence as souvenirs. Moreover, the village is a good spot to choose up some native lavender merchandise, together with oils, soaps, and sachets, which make for great items or private treats.
The Northern Rim
When you’re again on the street, 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 a few of the finest views over the canyon. This part of the drive presents quite a few viewpoints the place you possibly can park and take within the breathtaking surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to take photographs and even perhaps take pleasure in a picnic with a view.
Your street 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. Take into account eating at La Voute, which presents 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 Struggle II. Moreover, discover the native markets for recent produce, cheeses, and wines to deliver a style of Provence again residence with you.
The Gorges du Verdon is considered one of France’s most scenic street journeys. By planning your route prematurely, your street journey journey is certain to go off and not using a hitch. Alongside the best way, you’ll expertise not solely the pure great thing about the gorge but additionally 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 gorgeous landscapes, the Gorges du Verdon presents one thing for everybody.
