Gorges du Verdon: A Guide to Driving France’s Grand Canyon
Carved into the heart of Provence, the Gorges du Verdon is a natural wonder of staggering proportions. Often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’, its turquoise river snakes between limestone cliffs that plunge as deep as 700 metres. For the driving enthusiast, it offers one of the most spectacular road trips in France, with two incredible roads tracing the canyon. This guide will help you decide which route to take and how to make the most of your drive.
The Two Sides of the Canyon: Which Route is Best for Drivers?
The Gorges du Verdon can be explored from its north side or its south side. While both offer stunning scenery, they provide very different driving experiences.
- The North (Rive Droite): For Dramatic Views
The main road on the north side (the D952) is generally wider and busier. Its main draw is the spectacular Route des Crêtes (D23), a 24km loop that branches off from the main road at La Palud-sur-Verdon. This one-way circuit features 14 incredible lookout points (belvédères) that offer jaw-dropping, aerial views directly into the canyon. It’s an unmissable detour for the best photos, but be aware that the road is narrow and twisting. - The South (Rive Gauche): For a Pure Driving Experience
For those who prioritise the drive itself, the south rim (the D71) is king. Known as the Corniche Sublime, this road is faster and more sweeping, with fewer tourists and campervans. Starting from the beautiful village of Aiguines and running towards Comps-sur-Artuby, the road offers a fantastic rhythm with superb tarmac and breathtaking backdrops. While the views are less direct than the Route des Crêtes, the driving pleasure is second to none.
For the ultimate experience, we recommend a full loop of the canyon, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
The Perfect Driving Route
To truly appreciate the scale of the gorge, start your journey at the western end, at the stunning Lac de Sainte-Croix. The view from the Pont du Galetas bridge, where the river meets the lake, is one of the most iconic in France.
From here, you can choose your rim. If you take the south side first, enjoy the flowing curves of the Corniche Sublime, stopping at the Balcons de la Mescla viewpoint where the Artuby river joins the Verdon. If you opt for the north, head to La Palud-sur-Verdon to begin the sensational Route des Crêtes loop.
Tips for Your Gorges du Verdon Drive
When to Go: The roads are open all year, but the best time to visit is between April and October. Be aware that the region gets extremely busy during the peak French holiday season (mid-July to late August).
Driving Direction: To get the best views on the one-way section of the Route des Crêtes, you must drive it in a clockwise direction.
Take Your Time: The full loop is around 130km. While it can be driven in a day, it’s best to start early and allow plenty of time for stops at the numerous viewpoints.
Beyond the Drive: The region offers a wealth of activities, from kayaking on the turquoise river to exploring charming villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Experience the Gorges du Verdon with Ultimate Drives
The Gorges du Verdon is a highlight of any road trip in the South of France. Its combination of world-class scenery and thrilling roads makes it a must-drive destination.
If you’re ready to experience this incredible landscape from behind the wheel, our Alps Maritimes & Monte Carlo tour is the perfect way to explore the region’s best roads, including a full loop of the canyon.
Gorges du Verdon: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which side of the Gorges du Verdon is better to drive? A: For the most spectacular, direct views into the canyon, the North Rim with its Route des Crêtes is unbeatable. For a faster, more flowing driving experience with fewer crowds, the South Rim (Corniche Sublime) is superior.
Q: How long does it take to drive around the Gorges du Verdon? A: The full loop around the canyon is approximately 130km. You should allow at least half a day, but a full day is recommended to properly enjoy the drive and the many viewpoints.
Q: Is the Gorges du Verdon drive difficult? A: The roads are winding and narrow in places, particularly on the Route des Crêtes. It requires concentration, but it is not considered overly difficult for a competent driver. It is not recommended for nervous drivers or those in very large vehicles.