Lake Sainte-Croix - a natural wonder of the French Riviera.
[Introduction]: The Verdun Canyon and Lake Sainte-Croix are natural wonders in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region, famous for their turquoise waters, steep cliffs and outdoor activities.
🛬【Itinerary】:
Morning: Verdun Canyon
1. Departure: ☀ Depart from the hotel in the morning to La Palud-sur-Verdon (starting point on the north side of the canyon), where there is a visitor center and a map is available 🗺
2. Sightseeing and hiking:
- Point Sublime: One of the recommended viewing platforms in the canyon, overlooking the magnificent panoramic view;
- Sentier Martel: Classic hiking route🚶 (3-4 hours). Some sections require the use of hands and feet, suitable for people with better physical strength💪. If time is limited, you can choose a short trail 🚶♂️ (such as Balcons de la Mescla)
Noon: Lake Sainte-Croix
1. Lunch and rest:
- There are restaurants in the lakeside towns of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon or Les Salles-sur-Verdon. We recommend trying the Provencal fish soup or French sandwiches.
- Or bring your own picnic 🧺 and enjoy it on the beaches 🏖️ on the east side of the lake (such as Plage de Bauduen).
2. Water Sports
- Rent a rowing boat/pedal boat (about 15-25 euros/hour) to explore the canyon entrance. Paddles Verdon or Kayak Vert are recommended.
- Swimming: The lake water is clear and the water temperature is about 20-25℃ in summer.
Afternoon: South side of the canyon and return trip
1. Highlights on the South Side
- Aiguines town: overlooking the lake and visiting a traditional pottery workshop.
- Artuby Bridge: the highest bungee jumping location in Europe (optional experience).
2. Return trip 🚗
- Take the bus back to the hotel🏨
🧡【tips】:
- **Season**: Best from May to September, more crowded but suitable water temperature from July to August, plenty of water in spring.
- **Equipment**: sunscreen 🧴, hiking shoes 👟, swimsuit 🩱, plenty of drinking water 💧.
- **Safety**: There are no guardrails on some sections of the canyon, please wear a life jacket for water activities🦺.
- **Environmental protection**: Prohibit 🚫littering🚯 and protect the natural ecology.