Verdon Gorge: The Grand canyon of Europe, Lake and Lavender

Exploring the Verdon Gorge and surrounding sights offers a remarkable journey through some of Europe’s most captivating landscapes. This 10-hour private tour from Nice, France costs $1,376.61 per group (up to 8 people) and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and comfortable way to see the region. The tour features visits to the Gorges du Loup, Castellane, Gorges du Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix, Moustiers Sainte-Marie, and the Valensole lavender fields in season. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a personalized experience with a small group, guided by a knowledgeable driver.

According to reviews, this tour excels in offering breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and well-paced stops. It’s ideal for those wanting to explore the natural beauty and charming villages of the French Riviera and its mountainous surroundings. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly. This tour suits those who love scenic drives, panoramic viewpoints, and discovering hidden gems along the way.

Key Points

• Full-day private tour from Nice, lasting approximately 10 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience and comfort
• Visits multiple scenic spots, including Verdon Gorge, Lake Sainte-Croix, and Lavender fields (seasonal)
• Expert driver-guide offers insights and easy navigation in a recent, comfortable vehicle
• Entry to Saut du Loup waterfall is included; food and drinks are not
• Optimal for travelers seeking customized, small-group experiences with stunning panoramic views

Scenic Drive Through the Gorges du Loup and Cascades du Saut du Loup

The day begins with a beautiful drive away from Nice, passing through the Gorges du Loup. This scenic route showcases dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. A 20-minute stop allows for photos and to admire the natural beauty of the waterfall at Saut du Loup, where entries are included, offering a close-up view of this impressive cascade.

The Gorges du Loup offers some of the most picturesque landscapes of the region, with opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the rugged terrain. This stop serves as a gentle introduction to the natural wonders that define the region, making it perfect for nature lovers or those seeking memorable vistas early in the day.

Discovering Castellane at the French Alps Gateway

Next, the tour heads to Castellane, a charming village located at the entrance to the Verdon Gorges. Here, visitors enjoy about 45 minutes of free time to explore the village at their own pace. Castellane is renowned for its medieval architecture and the church perched atop a towering rock at 180 meters, offering a striking backdrop.

This stop provides a chance to relax, take in the mountain air, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or quick snack in this peaceful setting. The village’s reputation as a gateway to the Verdon Gorge makes it a convenient and scenic spot to stretch the legs before continuing deeper into the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

The Magnificent Gorges du Verdon

The highlight of the tour is the Gorges du Verdon, often called Europe’s Grand Canyon. Over the 2-hour visit, the guide leads you to the best viewpoints for spectacular panoramic photos. The Verdon River flows through the canyon, displaying a surprising turquoise-green color that contrasts vividly with the rugged cliffs.

Reaching depths of up to 700 meters, the Gorges du Verdon offers some of the most stunning scenery in southern France. Travelers are encouraged to take their time at key viewpoints, soaking in the view and capturing images of the majestic landscape. This area is famous for its breathtaking vistas and is definitely a photography highlight of the day.

Lake Sainte-Croix and Photo Opportunities at the Canyon’s End

Following the gorge exploration, the driver guides visitors to a photo stop at Lake Sainte-Croix, at the end of the canyon. This 20-minute stop offers a wonderful opportunity to admire the serene waters, surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery. The view here is perfect for capturing the calm beauty of the lake and the surrounding natural scenery.

The lake also provides a peaceful setting to appreciate the region’s diverse landscape, making it an ideal spot for unforgettable photos and a moment to relax before heading to the next destination.

Visiting Moustiers Sainte-Marie’s Medieval Charm

The tour includes a stop at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of France’s most picturesque medieval villages. Known for its ceramic crafts, this village features narrow streets, artisan shops, and stunning medieval architecture. Visitors are encouraged to take about an hour to walk through the village, enjoy a lunch break, and browse local ceramic shops.

Moustiers offers a authentic glimpse of traditional French mountain villages, with charming stone buildings and a scenic setting at the foot of a cliffs and rocky outcrop. The village’s rich history and craftsmanship reputation make it a memorable stop for culture and shopping.

Seasonal Lavender Walk in Valensole

From late June to the end of July, travelers have the chance to walk through the fragrant lavender fields of Valensole. Spanning about 45 minutes, this stop is perfect for photography enthusiasts or those wanting to experience the vibrant smells and colors of the lavender in bloom.

Visitors can stroll among the purple rows of lavender, capturing striking images against the clear blue sky. This seasonal highlight adds a sensory dimension to the tour, showcasing one of the region’s most famous natural attractions.

Optional Lakeside Relaxation at Lac de Sainte-Croix

Depending on weather conditions and group preferences, the driver may offer extra free time at Lac de Sainte-Croix instead of continuing in Moustiers. This lakeside stop provides a chance to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the tranquil scenery around the water.

This flexibility allows for a more personalized experience, whether visitors want more time to explore the village or prefer to unwind by the lake. The scenic lakeside setting complements the day’s adventure with peaceful, picturesque surroundings.

Logistics and Comfort in a Recent Vehicle

The entire day is led by a private driver-guide, ensuring personalized attention and smooth transportation. The vehicle is recent and comfortable, making the long drives between stops more enjoyable. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics and saves time, particularly in a busy region like Nice.

A small group capped at eight participants promotes a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for more tailored explanations and the ability to ask questions freely. The tour runs starting at 8:30 am, giving a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

No Food or Drinks Included: Plan Ahead

While the tour covers many scenic stops and cultural sites, food and drinks are not included. Travelers should consider bringing snacks, water, or planning to purchase meals at the various stops, especially in Moustiers or Castellane. There are opportunities to find local cafes and shops, but the tour itself does not provide meals.

This approach keeps the tour flexible and allows visitors to choose dining options that suit their preferences and dietary needs.

Highly Praised Guides and Scenic Highlights

Based on reviews, the guides stand out for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to explain the region’s sights clearly. Guides like Ruben and Laurent receive praise for their enthusiasm and personal approach, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

Reviewers consistently mention the breathtaking viewpoints, beautiful landscapes, and the quality of the scenic stops. The well-organized itinerary and timely pacing receive positive remarks, ensuring visitors experience the key highlights without feeling rushed.

Practical Considerations and Booking Tips

Since this is a private tour, it offers flexibility in timing and stops within the planned itinerary. It is advisable to book at least 22 days in advance for better availability. The $1,376.61 price covers all transportation and entry to Saut du Loup waterfall, but travelers should budget extra for meals and personal expenses.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific physical requirements mentioned. Its easy access and scenic routes make it a comfortable choice for those wanting to explore the natural and cultural beauty of the Verdon region without strenuous activity.

Verdon Gorge: The Grand canyon of Europe, Lake and Lavender – An In-Depth Experience

This private, full-day tour from Nice offers an excellent balance of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural wonders. The stops at Gorges du Loup, Castellane, and the Verdon Gorge highlight the region’s dramatic landscapes, while the visits to Moustiers Sainte-Marie and the Valensole lavender fields add cultural and seasonal charm.

The small-group setup and personal driver-guide ensure a relaxed yet informative experience. The scenic viewpoints and photo stops are some of the best ways to capture the region’s spectacular beauty. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics straightforward, especially for travelers based in Nice.

While the absence of included meals requires some planning, the overall value lies in the comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and the opportunity to explore hidden gems at your own pace. This tour suits those eager to experience Europe’s stunning landscapes while enjoying the intimacy of a private group.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Nice?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, providing ample time to visit all the major stops comfortably.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying the logistics of starting and ending the day.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in a recent, comfortable vehicle, entrance to Saut du Loup waterfall, and a private driver-guide are included.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring snacks or plan to buy meals at stops.

What stops are made during the trip?
Stops include Gorges du Loup, Cascades du Saut du Loup, Castellane, Verdon Gorge, Lake Sainte-Croix, Moustiers Sainte-Marie, and Valensole lavender fields (seasonal).

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While no specific restrictions are mentioned, the stops involve walking and outdoor viewing, so some mobility considerations should be made.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there may be some flexibility in pacing and specific stops, subject to the guide’s discretion.

What is the best season to see the lavender fields?
The lavender fields bloom from end June to the end of July, providing the best photo opportunities.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book at least 22 days in advance to secure availability.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Riviera Star Tours, known for their reliable and personalized experiences in the region.