Gorges du Verdon: the day trip from Nice
The most beautiful day trip from Nice: a 2h20 drive to Europe's largest canyon, the Route des Crêtes, Lake Sainte-Croix and Moustiers.
There are easy trips, and then there are the Gorges du Verdon. Europe's largest canyon has to be earned: a 2h20 drive from Nice, a dizzying ridge road, a turquoise lake — and a day you talk about for years. Here is how to organise it, by car or on an organised tour.
The drive from Nice
Allow 2h15 to 2h20 of driving to reach the heart of the gorges on the La Palud-sur-Verdon side (1h50 to Castellane, 2h to Saint-André-les-Alpes). The road goes via the A8 then the valley: plan to leave early, as the Route des Crêtes attracts crowds from 10 am in summer.
The Route des Crêtes: the big moment
The Route des Crêtes (D23) is the signature experience: a loop of about twenty kilometres above the void, dotted with fifteen or so viewpoints — Trescaire, Dent d'Aire, Pas de la Baou, Armanet, La Carelle. It is free, open from late March to late November, and one-way on its central section (from Pas de la Baou to Chalet de la Maline).
Two golden rules: go before 10 am or after 6 pm (the official site says it itself, attendance explodes from 15 July to 30 August), and don't panic at the wheel — the viewpoints are developed, but the abyss is impressive.
Point Sublime and the Samson corridor
At Rougon, the Point Sublime viewpoint overlooks the Samson corridor, the most spectacular part of the canyon. Developed car park, site house nearby: it's the must-stop for the "wow" photo.
Lake Sainte-Croix and Moustiers
After the ridges, come down to Lake Sainte-Croix: swimming in turquoise water, hiring a boat or paddle to follow the cliffs — the view from the water is incomparable. The afternoon passes without you seeing it go.
10 minutes away, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of France's most beautiful villages: its famous star suspended between two cliffs, its earthenware workshops and its cool alleys. An ice cream on the square and the day is perfect.
Options without a car
The best option remains the organised tour from Nice (minibus, ~9 hours, from €125 per adult): it avoids driving on the ridges — worth its price for those who don't like heights. Failing that, the Zou ! 51 bus line Nice-Digne or the Pignes train get you close, but it's hard without a car on site.
When to go
- May-June and September: the ideal conditions — roads open, reasonable crowds, lake water at a good temperature;
- July-August: possible, but drive the Route des Crêtes before 10 am and expect saturated villages;
- Winter: the Route des Crêtes closes (late November), but Castellane and the lake remain beautiful for regulars.
FAQ
How long does it take to get from Nice to the Gorges du Verdon?
About 2h15-2h20 of driving to La Palud-sur-Verdon (1h50 to Castellane), so a full day round trip.
Is the Route des Crêtes paid?
No, it's free, open from late March to late November. Only some viewpoint car parks may charge.
Can you visit the Gorges du Verdon without a car?
Yes, via organised tours from Nice (minibus, ~9h, from €125) which avoid driving on the ridges.
What is the best season?
May-June and September: roads open, reasonable crowds. In July-August, drive the Route des Crêtes before 10 am.
Can you swim in Lake Sainte-Croix?
Yes, the water is turquoise and swimming is free. Boats and paddles are available for hire on the shore.
What to see in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie?
The star suspended between two cliffs, the earthenware workshops, the medieval alleys and the village square.
