The Gorges du Verdon is known as “Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon“, the Telegraph reports. Located in Province’s Verdon Natural Regional Park in South France, the Gorges du Verdon is a staggering 25km long and 700 metres deep, which wins it the title of Europe’s deepest canyon. The route around the gorge’s rim also makes for a spectacular road trip with epic views of the Verdon River. All in all, it takes around one and a half hours to complete straight through, so you have plenty of time to explore the stops along the way.

Begin in Trigance, Var

The historic village of Trigance near the eastern end of the Gorges du Verdon is a popular spot to kick off this road trip. From here, you’ll want to take the D90 south until you reach D71. Then, turn right toward Balcons de la Mezcla: an epic viewpoint that provides stunning views of the Verdon River below. Towering 820 feet above the water, the Balcons de la Mezcla isn’t for the faint of heart. The road gets fairly narrow and twisty at times, although it’s reassuring to know accidents here are rare. Yet, responsible driving is a must regardless, so stick to the speed limit and always slow down when nearing bends. 

It also helps to choose a reliable car for your road trip. An SUV is a good choice as it’s fairly easy to manoeuvre, can handle challenging terrains, and offers a clear view of the road. In fact, SUVs now account for over 51% of car sales in Europe. Mid-size SUVs, in particular, strike a nice balance between storage space, affordability, and safety features. Some models even come with traction control, blind spot monitoring, and stability control to keep you safer on the road.

Stop at Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

It won’t be long until you reach the village of Aiguines: the perfect spot for a bite to eat. If you need a good recommendation, try Le Rhumarin. This popular restaurant serves a tasty mix of French and Mediterranean cuisine, and you can take in gorgeous views of the Sainte Croix lake while enjoying your food. Once you’ve eaten your fill, drive the D957 until you reach Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a beautiful village situated between two dramatic cliffs. Visit the famous Notre Dame de Beauvoir Chapel — it’s just above the village on a cliff ledge. Built in the late XIIth century, the chapel combines Gothic and Romanesque architecture and offers stunning views of the village below. 

While in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, take some time to wander through the narrow streets lined with charming pottery shops. The village is renowned for its faïence pottery, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century. You can even visit the Atelier Bondil, where you can see artisans at work and purchase unique handmade pieces to take home as souvenirs. Additionally, the village is a great spot to pick up some local lavender products, including oils, soaps, and sachets, which make for wonderful gifts or personal treats.

The Northern Rim

Once you’re back on the road, it’s time to journey across the gorge’s northern rim (the rive droite). Drive the cliffside Route des Crests, which spans 13 kilometres between Cassis and La Ciotat, and stop at the Belvedere du Tilleul overlook for some of the best views over the canyon. This section of the drive offers numerous viewpoints where you can park and take in the breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos and perhaps even enjoy a picnic with a view.

Your road trip finally wraps up in Draguignan, where you can reward yourself with a meal at one of the many fine-dining restaurants. Consider dining at La Voute, which offers a sophisticated menu featuring local produce and expertly prepared dishes. Draguignan also has several historical sites worth visiting, such as the American Cemetery and Memorial, where you can pay respects to fallen soldiers from World War II. Additionally, explore the local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and wines to bring a taste of Provence back home with you.

The Gorges du Verdon is one of France’s most scenic road trips. By planning your route in advance, your road trip adventure is bound to go off without a hitch. Along the way, you’ll experience not only the natural beauty of the gorge but also the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply someone looking to relax and take in the stunning landscapes, the Gorges du Verdon offers something for everyone.