Europe's deepest canyon, with turquoise water you can kayak or pedal between limestone walls, on the edge of Provence's lavender fields. Here's what Gorges du Verdon is like, when to go and how long to stay.
The EU is bringing in new entry checks, so check the rules on GOV.UK before you book.
Temperatures are the average daytime high in °C.
May, June and September are best, warm for kayaking and hiking with fewer people on the water. Lavender on the Valensole plateau peaks from late June to mid-July. July and August are hot and busy. Many services close from November to March.
Paddle from the Lac de Sainte-Croix into the gorge between towering cliffs.
A clifftop loop road with lookouts straight down into the canyon.
A classic full-day hike along the bottom of the gorge.
A cliffside village with a gold star hanging between two rocks.
A big turquoise lake with beaches for swimming.
Fields of purple lavender in early summer, 30 minutes away.
Yes. It's one of the most spectacular natural sights in Europe, and kayaking into the gorge is a highlight for all ages.
Two or three days covers the drive, a kayak trip and Moustiers. Add a few days for Provence.
Fly into Marseille or Nice, both with direct flights from the UK, then drive about 2 hours. You need a car.
From late June to mid-July on the Valensole plateau, before it's harvested.
Yes, at the Lac de Sainte-Croix and in calm spots in the gorge. The water is cold, and flows can change with dam releases.
Put Gorges du Verdon on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.