The canyon was carved by the Verdon River, which takes its name from the French 'vert' (green) due to the color of its water.
The canyon's depth reaches up to 700 meters, while its width varies from 6 to 100 meters at the base and up to 1,500 meters at the top.
The river was dammed in the mid-20th century to create the artificial Lake of Sainte-Croix, which now marks the end of the canyon.
The Sentier Martel trail features a 670-meter-long tunnel called the 'Tunnel du Baou' that requires a headlamp to traverse.
The canyon is a protected habitat for griffon vultures, which were successfully reintroduced to the area in 1999.
The limestone walls of the canyon contain numerous fossils, reflecting the region's origins as a shallow tropical sea during the Triassic and Jurassic periods.
The Gorges du Verdon is a river canyon in southeastern France, reaching depths of up to 700 meters, making it one of Europe's deepest gorges. Formed by the Verdon River, the canyon stretches approximately 25 kilometers between the towns of Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Its distinct turquoise water color is caused by microscopic algae and glacial minerals. The site offers extensive hiking networks, including the Sentier Martel, which traverses tunnels and cliffside paths. Visitors can engage in kayaking, rock climbing, and paragliding throughout the canyon area. The Point Sublime viewpoint provides a panoramic perspective of the canyon's narrowest and most dramatic sections. Limestone cliffs characterize the landscape, which is part of the Verdon Regional Natural Park. The area experiences significant geological activity that has shaped its karst topography over millions of years.
The Point Sublime viewpoint offers the most iconic framing of the canyon's winding riverbed.
Carry a high-quality headlamp for hiking through the dark tunnels along the main trail routes.
Bring at least two liters of water per person as sources are scarce and summer temperatures can be extreme.
Check local weather reports specifically for flash flood risks if visiting during spring or autumn.
Attempting the longest hikes without proper physical conditioning; swimming in the Verdon river during water release periods from the dams.
Trails may be restricted or closed during high-fire-risk days in the summer; boat rentals are seasonal.
Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots; follow marked trails to prevent erosion and avoid disturbing nesting bird populations.
