Visiting Gorges du Verdon, France

Around an hour and a half from Nice lies one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the south of France: the gorges du Verdon.

The deepest gorge in the country follows the Verdon river where it flows into Lac Sainte Croix. You can drive the spectacular roads that snake around its rim, or appreciate its beauty from the river that runs through it.

To drive, it takes around two hours to make a full circuit along tight, narrow roads with liberal amounts of hairpins. It’s a spectacular route, but one that isn’t for those with a fear of heights.

Down on the water, you can kayak, canoe or boat along the gorge, looking up at the steep walls that tower over you. Further up river there are spots where you can do white water rafting, although you won’t be in the gorge itself.

There are lots of charming villages nearby you can stop at for refreshments, but Aiguines must be one of the best ones. It offers great views over the lake and a variety of eating and drinking establishments for travelers in need of refreshment.

Once you are done exploring the gorge, continue your trip to the neighboring national parks or head off to Nice, Marseille or Monaco for some city time.